Baked Pork Chops with Potatoes

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Baked Pork Chops with Potatoes: A Hearty and Delicious Dinner

Introduction

Looking for a comforting, hearty meal that will leave everyone at the table satisfied? Baked Pork Chops with Potatoes is the perfect dish for family dinners, special occasions, or simply when you want to enjoy a delicious and filling meal. The pork chops are perfectly seasoned and seared to a golden brown, while the potatoes become tender and flavorful, topped with a rich cheese and cream mixture. This combination creates an irresistible dish that’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table.

Ingredients:

To prepare this satisfying meal, gather the following ingredients:

  • 6 bone-in pork chops
  • 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your preferred cheese)
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

  1. Season the Pork Chops: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Rub this seasoning mixture evenly over the pork chops, ensuring they are well coated with flavor.
  2. Sear the Pork Chops: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. This step helps lock in the juices and creates a delicious crust on the pork chops.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

  1. Layer the Potatoes and Onions: In a large baking dish, arrange the thinly sliced potatoes and onions in an even layer. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor.
  2. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the potato and onion layer. This will create a cheesy foundation for the rest of the dish.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

  1. Arrange the Pork Chops: Place the seared pork chops on top of the potato and onion layer in the baking dish.
  2. Add the Cream and Garlic: In a small bowl, mix together the heavy cream and minced garlic. Pour this creamy mixture evenly over the pork chops and potatoes, ensuring that everything is well coated.
  3. Top with Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top. The cheese will melt and become golden and bubbly during baking, adding a rich and creamy texture to the dish.
  4. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

  1. Garnish: After removing the dish from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
  2. Serve: Serve the baked pork chops with potatoes hot, straight from the baking dish. This meal pairs wonderfully with a side of green salad or your favorite vegetable for a complete dinner.

Tips for Perfect Baked Pork Chops

  • Choose the Right Cut: Bone-in pork chops tend to stay juicier and have more flavor compared to boneless chops. The bone helps retain moisture during cooking.
  • Don’t Overcook: Pork chops are best when they’re cooked through but still juicy. Keep an eye on the baking time to avoid overcooking and drying out the pork.
  • Season Well: Proper seasoning is key to bringing out the best flavors in both the pork chops and the potatoes. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences.
  • Customize the Cheese: If you prefer a different cheese, feel free to experiment. Mozzarella, Swiss, or a combination of cheeses can be used in place of cheddar.

Conclusion

This Baked Pork Chops with Potatoes recipe is an easy and delicious way to make a comforting dinner. The savory pork chops, tender potatoes, and rich, cheesy sauce come together in a one-pan dish that’s sure to please. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking to enjoy a satisfying family meal, this recipe is a perfect choice. Give it a try and enjoy the flavors of this hearty, flavorful dish.

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