Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole: Ultimate Comfort Food in One Dish

When it comes to hearty, home-cooked comfort food, few meals deliver like Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole. This dish brings together juicy pork chops, tender layers of scalloped potatoes, and a rich, savory sauce that bakes into pure comfort. It’s filling, cozy, and perfect for family dinners when you want something satisfying without juggling multiple pots and pans.

This casserole is inspired by classic smothered pork chops and traditional scalloped potatoes, combined into one oven-baked dish that does all the work for you. As it bakes, the potatoes soften, the pork becomes fork-tender, and the sauce thickens into a creamy, gravy-like coating that ties everything together beautifully.

Why This Casserole Works So Well

The magic of this recipe lies in how the components cook together. Pork chops release flavor into the sauce, while the potatoes absorb it as they bake. The result is a deeply savory dish where every layer is infused with rich, comforting flavor.

Why this recipe is a favorite:

• One-dish meal with protein and starch
• Rich, savory flavor without being complicated
• Perfect for make-ahead and leftovers
• Classic comfort food appeal

It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug.

A True One-Pan Dinner

This casserole eliminates the need for multiple side dishes. The pork and potatoes cook together, creating a balanced meal that’s perfect served on its own or with a simple vegetable on the side. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, Sunday dinners, or feeding a hungry family.

Ingredients

• Bone-in or boneless pork chops
• Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
• Onion
• Garlic
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Butter
• All-purpose flour
• Paprika
• Dried thyme
• Salt
• Black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Prepare the potatoes
   Thinly slice the potatoes and layer half of them evenly in the baking dish. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
3. Season and sear the pork chops
   Season pork chops with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear briefly in butter until lightly browned on both sides.
4. Make the sauce
   In the same pan, sauté onions until soft. Add garlic and cook briefly. Stir in flour, then slowly whisk in broth and cream until smooth.
5. Assemble the casserole
   Place pork chops over the potatoes. Top with remaining potatoes, then pour sauce evenly over everything.
6. Bake covered
   Cover tightly with foil and bake until potatoes are tender and pork is cooked through.
7. Finish uncovered
   Remove foil and bake a few more minutes to lightly brown the top. Rest briefly before serving.

Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole

Tender pork chops baked with creamy scalloped potatoes in a rich, savory sauce.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 520

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 6 pork chops bone-in or boneless
• 4 cups potatoes thinly sliced
• 1 large onion sliced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp paprika
• 0.5 tsp dried thyme
• to taste salt
• to taste black pepper

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking dish
• Whisk

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the dish and season lightly.
3. Season pork chops and sear briefly in butter until lightly browned.
4. Sauté onions and garlic, stir in flour, then whisk in broth and cream.
5. Place pork chops over potatoes, top with remaining potatoes, and pour sauce over.
6. Cover and bake until potatoes are tender and pork is cooked through.
7. Uncover briefly to brown, rest, and serve.

Notes

Let rest before serving so the sauce thickens properly.

Choosing the Right Pork Chops

Thicker pork chops work best, as they stay juicy during baking. Boneless chops are convenient, while bone-in adds extra flavor. Avoid very thin chops, which can dry out.

Best Potatoes for Scalloped Layers

Russet potatoes create a softer, creamier texture, while Yukon Golds hold their shape slightly better. Both work well, depending on your preference.

Tips for Perfect Results

• Slice potatoes evenly for uniform cooking
• Cover tightly during baking to prevent drying
• Let rest before serving so sauce thickens
• Season each layer lightly for balanced flavor

Variations to Try

• Add mushrooms for extra savory depth
• Stir shredded cheese into the sauce for richness
• Use pork tenderloin medallions instead of chops
• Add a pinch of cayenne for gentle heat

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs well with:

• Steamed green beans
• Roasted broccoli
• Simple side salad
• Buttered peas

Make-Ahead and Storage

• Assemble ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours
• Store leftovers up to 3 days
• Reheat covered in the oven for best texture

Why This Recipe Belongs on Your Table

Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole delivers everything comfort food should: rich flavor, hearty portions, and that slow-baked goodness that makes everyone gather around the table. It’s simple, satisfying, and always a hit.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a warm, filling meal that feels homemade in the best way possible, this casserole checks all the boxes. One dish, bold flavor, and true comfort in every bite.