Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of perfectly seasoned pork chops and creamy, cheese-laden scalloped potatoes that transforms an ordinary dinner into a feast worthy of celebration.

This Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe brings together two beloved comfort food classics in one spectacular meal that will have your family asking for seconds before they’ve finished their first serving. The tender, juicy pork chops get a golden-brown crust infused with aromatic garlic and nutty Parmesan, while layers of thinly sliced potatoes bathe in a rich, creamy sauce topped with bubbling cheese.

What makes this recipe truly special is how both components cook together in harmony, allowing the flavors to meld and create a restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare at home. Get ready to create a new family favorite that combines hearty satisfaction with elegant presentation!

What is “Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes”?

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a complete one-dish meal that combines two comfort food favorites into a single, satisfying dinner. The dish features bone-in or boneless pork chops that are seasoned with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese, then seared to golden perfection before being nestled atop layers of thinly sliced potatoes. The potatoes are arranged in overlapping layers and covered with a creamy sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and cheese, creating the classic scalloped potato texture. As the dish bakes together, the pork chops stay incredibly moist while the potatoes become tender and absorb all the wonderful flavors. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special, holiday gatherings, or any time you’re craving serious comfort food that doesn’t require multiple pots and pans.

Ingredients List for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

For the Pork Chops:

4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:

3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and sliced ⅛-inch thick
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
½ cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon white pepper
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped

How to Cook Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this impressive dish requires careful timing and layering, but the results are absolutely worth the effort. Here’s your detailed roadmap to success:

1. Prepare Your Workspace:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Let the pork chops come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.
Use a mandoline slicer or sharp knife to slice potatoes uniformly for even cooking.

2. Create the Cheese Sauce:

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
Remove from heat and stir in 1½ cups of cheddar cheese, all the Gruyere, minced garlic, salt, white pepper, and nutmeg.

3. Layer the Scalloped Potatoes:

Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in overlapping layers in your prepared baking dish.
Scatter half of the sliced onions over the potatoes.
Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over this layer.
Repeat with remaining potatoes, onions, and cheese sauce.
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top.

4. Prepare the Pork Chops:

Pat the pork chops completely dry with paper towels.
In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Rub this seasoning mixture all over both sides of each pork chop.
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.

5. Sear the Pork Chops:

Sear the seasoned pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
Don’t move them too early – let them develop a proper crust.
The internal temperature should reach about 120°F at this stage (they’ll finish cooking in the oven).

6. Combine and Bake:

Carefully nestle the seared pork chops on top of the scalloped potatoes.
Cover the entire dish tightly with aluminum foil.
Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for 15-20 minutes more.
The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F.

7. Rest and Garnish:

Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
Garnish with fresh parsley and chives for color and freshness.
Serve immediately while hot and bubbly.

Substitutions and Variations

This versatile recipe can be adapted to suit different tastes, dietary needs, or ingredient availability:

Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops work well but may cook faster, so adjust timing accordingly. Pork tenderloin medallions are another excellent option.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes create a fluffier texture, while red potatoes hold their shape better. Sweet potatoes offer a unique twist with added nutrition.
Cheese: Substitute Gruyere with Swiss cheese or Fontina for different flavor profiles. For a sharper taste, try aged white cheddar or Parmesan.
Dairy: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version, or try evaporated milk for richness without as much fat.
Herbs: Fresh herbs always taste better than dried – use 3 teaspoons of fresh thyme or rosemary instead of 1 teaspoon dried.
Low-Carb Option: Replace potatoes with thinly sliced turnips or cauliflower for a keto-friendly version.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:

Cutting Potatoes Too Thick: Unevenly or overly thick potato slices won’t cook through properly. Aim for consistent ⅛-inch thickness.
Not Pre-cooking the Sauce: Raw flour in your cheese sauce will create a gritty texture. Always cook the roux properly before adding liquids.
Overcooking the Pork: Pork chops can become dry quickly. Use a meat thermometer and remove them at 145°F for juicy results.
Skipping the Rest Period: Cutting into the dish immediately will cause the sauce to run. Let it rest to set properly.
Using Pre-shredded Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts much more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties, which contain anti-caking agents.
Not Seasoning in Layers: Season both the potatoes and the pork chops adequately – under-seasoned components won’t magically become flavorful when combined.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

This hearty dish is substantial enough to serve as a complete meal, but adding a few complementary sides can create a well-rounded dinner experience. Serve alongside a crisp green salad with vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or offer steamed broccoli or green beans for added nutrition and color. Warm dinner rolls or crusty bread are perfect for soaking up any extra cheese sauce. For beverages, consider a medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, which pairs beautifully with both pork and cheese. If you prefer red wine, a light Pinot Noir works wonderfully. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling apple cider or lemonade provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Presentation Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Transform this comfort food into an elegant presentation with these simple techniques:

Individual Portions: Serve in small cast-iron skillets or ramekins for a rustic, restaurant-style presentation.
Garnish Beautifully: Fresh herb sprigs, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of paprika adds visual appeal and aromatic interest.
Color Contrast: Serve on white plates to showcase the golden-brown colors of the dish, and add a small side of bright green vegetables.
Family Style: Present the entire dish in the baking pan at the table for a cozy, family-gathering feel.
Layered Plating: Slice the pork chops and fan them over individual portions of scalloped potatoes for an upscale presentation.

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops Recipe Tips

Follow these professional tips to elevate your dish from good to extraordinary:

Temperature Control: Use a reliable meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without overcooking.
Potato Prep: Soak sliced potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then pat completely dry before layering.
Make-Ahead Strategy: Assemble the scalloped potatoes up to a day ahead, then add the seared pork chops just before baking.
Even Cooking: Arrange pork chops in a single layer without overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
Cheese Quality: Invest in good-quality cheese – it makes a noticeable difference in flavor and melting quality.
Resting Technique: Tent the finished dish with foil during the resting period to keep it warm while the sauce sets.

How to Store Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Proper storage ensures you can enjoy leftovers safely and deliciously. Allow the dish to cool completely at room temperature (within 2 hours of cooking) before refrigerating. Transfer to airtight containers or cover the original baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For best results when reheating, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through (about 20-25 minutes). Individual portions can be microwaved on medium power, but oven reheating maintains better texture. While this dish can be frozen for up to 3 months, the texture of the potatoes may change slightly upon thawing. If freezing, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in?
A: Absolutely! Boneless pork chops work well, but they may cook 5-10 minutes faster. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: You can assemble the scalloped potatoes and refrigerate them up to 24 hours ahead. Sear the pork chops and add them just before baking, adding 10-15 extra minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold.

Q: What’s the best way to slice potatoes evenly?
A: A mandoline slicer gives the most consistent results, but a sharp knife and steady hand work too. Aim for ⅛-inch thickness – about the thickness of two quarters stacked together.

Q: Can I substitute different types of cheese?
A: Yes! Try Gouda, Fontina, or Swiss instead of Gruyere. Avoid pre-shredded cheeses as they don’t melt as smoothly due to anti-caking agents.

Q: How do I know when the pork chops are done?
A: Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chop. The internal temperature should reach 145°F for safe consumption while remaining juicy.

Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: You can substitute plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives, though the flavor and texture will be different from the traditional version.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes represents the very best of comfort food cooking – hearty, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. This recipe brings together tender, perfectly seasoned pork chops with creamy, cheese-laden potatoes in a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. The beauty of this meal lies not just in its incredible taste, but in its ability to feed a crowd with minimal cleanup and maximum impact. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a special family meal, or simply craving serious comfort food, this recipe delivers on every level. Take your time with the preparation, follow the steps carefully, and don’t rush the resting period – your patience will be rewarded with a dish that looks as impressive as it tastes. I guarantee that once you serve this meal, it will earn a permanent place in your recipe rotation. The combination of savory pork, aromatic garlic, nutty Parmesan, and impossibly creamy potatoes creates a symphony of flavors that will have everyone at your table asking for the recipe. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite of this ultimate comfort food masterpiece!