Garlic Parmesan Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Garlic Parmesan Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is the perfect comfort food that combines juicy, tender chops with creamy, cheesy potatoes. This dish is an excellent choice for family dinners, gatherings, or when you want to treat yourself to something hearty and satisfying. The blend of garlic and Parmesan adds a burst of flavor to the chops, while the scalloped potatoes bring a creamy, cheesy sidekick that complements the dish beautifully. In this detailed guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know to prepare this mouthwatering Garlic Parmesan Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 600 kcal

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

For the Garlic Parmesan Chops:

• 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1-inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:

• 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced (Yukon Gold or Russet works best)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions for Garlic Parmesan Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

1️⃣ Prepare the Ingredients

1. Potatoes: Wash and peel the potatoes, then thinly slice them evenly using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer for uniform cooking.
2. Garlic: Mince the garlic cloves finely to ensure even distribution of flavor.
3. Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

2️⃣ Cook the Garlic Parmesan Chops

1. Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sear the Chops: Add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
3. Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce the heat slightly and add the minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the chops, letting it melt slightly.
4. Set Aside: Remove the chops from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

3️⃣ Prepare the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Layer the Potatoes: Start layering the thinly sliced potatoes in the baking dish, overlapping slightly. Season each layer with a sprinkle of garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the Cream: Pour the heavy cream evenly over the layered potatoes to ensure a rich, creamy base.
4. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle a generous layer of Parmesan and cheddar cheese on top.
5. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

4️⃣ Assemble and Serve

1. Plate the Dish: Arrange the Garlic Parmesan Chops on a large serving plate.
2. Add the Potatoes: Serve a generous portion of cheesy scalloped potatoes alongside the chops.
3. Garnish (Optional): Add freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flair.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Potato Slicing: Use a mandoline slicer for perfectly even potato slices, ensuring consistent cooking.
• Cheese Variation: Mix in other types of cheese like Gruyère or mozzarella for added flavor complexity.
• Garlic Distribution: Sauté the garlic in the skillet before cooking the chops to infuse the oil with garlic flavor.
• Resting Chops: Allow the chops to rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain their juices.
• Heavy Cream Substitute: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream.

Benefits of This Garlic Parmesan Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

1. Rich in Protein: The pork chops provide a high-quality source of protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
2. Comfort Food: The creamy potatoes and flavorful chops make this dish the ultimate comfort food.
3. Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe by adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to suit your taste.
4. Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is hearty and satisfying, making it ideal for family gatherings or special occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chicken instead of pork chops?

Yes, you can substitute pork chops with boneless or bone-in chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat the pork chops and potatoes in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the scalloped potatoes ahead and refrigerate them uncooked. Bake them just before serving. The pork chops are best cooked fresh.

What side dishes go well with this recipe?

Steamed vegetables like green beans, roasted asparagus, or a fresh garden salad make excellent side dishes.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will leave everyone at your table satisfied. This recipe is simple yet elegant, perfect for any occasion. With its tender, juicy chops and rich, creamy potatoes, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Follow the steps and tips in this guide, and you’ll have a meal that’s sure to impress!