Sunday Dinner Favorite: Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes

Growing up, Sunday dinners were always a cherished tradition in our family. It was a time to gather, share stories, and savor a meal prepared with love. One dish that never failed to make an appearance was my mom’s Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes. The irresistible aroma of tender pork chops and creamy, cheesy potatoes filled our home, setting the stage for a meal we all looked forward to. Now, as I recreate this dish for my own family, it’s a comforting reminder of those special moments around the dinner table.

What Are Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes?

This hearty dish combines succulent pork chops with layers of thinly sliced potatoes and onions, all smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce. As it bakes, the flavors meld beautifully—the potatoes soak up the creamy sauce while the pork chops remain juicy and flavorful. The result? A satisfying and comforting meal that’s as delicious as it is nostalgic.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and Delicious: With minimal prep and a handful of ingredients, this dish is as easy to make as it is tasty.
Budget-Friendly: Stretch your grocery budget with this filling and affordable meal.
Family Favorite: Once you serve it, this casserole is sure to become a regular request at your dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

5 potatoes (white or Yukon Gold)
5 pork chops
1 onion, sliced or diced
1 cup whole milk
3 cups Cheddar cheese, shredded
3 tbsp unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Chives, green onions, seasoning salt, or garlic salt for extra flavor

Variations to Try

Swap Cheddar cheese for Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different twist.
Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
Top with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a crispy finish.
Want a creamier dish? Add more milk or cream.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a baking dish.
Prepare the potatoes by peeling and slicing them thinly (about ¼-inch thick). Slice or dice the onion.
Shred the cheese from a block for the best texture.
In a large bowl, combine potatoes, onions, cheese, milk, and seasonings, mixing well.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and dot with butter.
Place the pork chops on top of the potato mixture.
Bake for 50-55 minutes, flipping the pork chops halfway through.
Check for doneness: Ensure the pork chops are cooked through and the potatoes are tender. If needed, bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, covering with foil to prevent the pork from drying out.

Tips for Success

Use a mandoline for uniform potato slices.
Grate your own cheese for a creamier sauce.
Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.
Adjust the seasoning to your liking, adding salt, pepper, or fresh herbs as desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of pork? Pork chops work best, but pork loin slices can also be used.
Can I substitute heavy cream for milk? Absolutely! Heavy cream will make the dish even richer.
What type of potatoes should I use? Yukon Gold or white potatoes hold up well, but other varieties work too.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

To make ahead: Assemble the dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the foil and add 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Reheat directly from frozen for about 1 hour.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with:

A fresh green salad
Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans
Crusty bread for soaking up the cheesy sauce

Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes
This classic comfort food is sure to bring warmth and joy to your table. With tender pork chops and creamy, cheesy potatoes, it’s a recipe your family will love again and again.