Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Hearty Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes Recipe for Family Dinners

Pork chops with scalloped potatoes is the kind of meal that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.

There's something deeply satisfying about a plate where tender meat meets creamy, layered comfort in one complete dinner.

The combination works beautifully for casual weeknight dinners when you want something a bit more substantial than usual.

It also shines during cooler months when hearty, baked meals just feel right.

When you serve a dish that looks as good as it tastes, dinner becomes more than just eating—it becomes an occasion worth sitting down for.

Perfect timing makes all the difference, and everything comes out of the oven hot, golden, and ready to enjoy.

Standout Features Of Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes

Standout Features Of Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes
  • Comfort Food Champion: This dish delivers a hearty, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug for your entire family, with creamy potatoes and tender pork in every single bite.
  • One-Dish Wonder: You can skip the multiple pans and complicated prep, creating a complete dinner that bakes together with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
  • Budget-Friendly Feast: Simple ingredients like potatoes, cheese, and pork chops mean you can feed several people without spending a fortune, making dinner both delicious and economical.
  • Weeknight Superstar: Even after a long day, anyone can assemble this dish quickly, then let the oven do the hard work while relaxing or helping with homework.

Ingredient List for Pork Chops and Scalloped Potatoes

Potatoes:
  • White Or Yukon Gold Potatoes (5): These hearty potatoes form the delicious base of your casserole. Slice them thin to ensure they cook evenly and soak up all the cheesy goodness.
Protein:
  • Pork Chops (5): Your main protein that will cook perfectly nestled on top of the creamy potato layer. Choose medium-thickness chops for the best results.
Flavor Builders:
  • Onion (1): Adds a sweet, savory depth to the entire dish. Slice or dice to distribute the flavor throughout the casserole.
  • Whole Milk (1 cup): Creates a rich, creamy sauce that binds the potatoes and cheese together.
  • Cheddar Cheese (3 cups): Sharp and melty, this cheese provides a tangy, rich coating for your potatoes.
  • Unsalted Butter (3 tbsp): Adds richness and helps prevent sticking in the baking dish.
Seasonings:
  • Salt And Pepper (to taste): Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the pork and potatoes.
  • Optional Chives Or Green Onions: Adds a fresh, light garnish.
  • Optional Seasoning Salt And Garlic Salt (pinch): Boosts the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Equipment You’ll Use for Pork Chops Scalloped Potatoes

  • 9×13-inch Baking Dish: Your go-to pan for creating this hearty one-dish meal, perfect for even cooking and easy serving.
  • Large Mixing Bowl: Where you’ll combine potatoes, onions, cheese, and seasonings for a well-mixed base.
  • Sharp Chef’s Knife: Essential for thinly and evenly slicing potatoes and chopping onions with precision.
  • Cheese Grater: Helps you shred the Cheddar cheese directly from the block for the freshest flavor and best melting texture.
  • Cutting Board: Provides a stable surface for slicing potatoes and chopping ingredients safely.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate proportions of milk and seasonings for consistent results.
  • Vegetable Peeler: Quickly removes potato skins to prepare them for slicing.
  • Aluminum Foil: Handy for covering the dish if the top browns too quickly or to prevent the pork from drying out.

Steps for Making Pork Chops With Scalloped Potatoes

Steps for Making Pork Chops With Scalloped Potatoes
1

Prep the Oven

Set your oven to exactly 350°F and grab a 9×13 inch baking dish. Grab a bit of butter or cooking spray to grease the dish so nothing sticks.

2

Slice the Potatoes

Wash 5 potatoes and peel them if you prefer. Using a sharp knife, slice them super thin – about 1/4 inch thick. The thinner you slice, the quicker they’ll cook.

3

Prepare the Cheese

Break out a block of Cheddar cheese and shred it fresh. Store-bought shredded cheese works too, but freshly grated melts so much better. You’ll need 3 full cups of shredded cheese.

4

Mix the Potato Base

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine these ingredients:

  • 5 sliced potatoes
  • 1 sliced onion
  • 3 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Stir everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed.

5

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the potato mixture into your greased baking dish. Dot the top with 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter, breaking the butter into small chunks.

6

Add the Pork Chops

Carefully place 5 pork chops on top of the potato mixture. Season the chops with a pinch of salt and pepper.

7

Bake the Dish

Slide the baking dish into the preheated 350°F oven. Bake for 50-55 minutes, flipping the pork chops once halfway through cooking.

8

Check for Doneness

After 50 minutes, check that the pork chops are cooked through and the potatoes are tender. If needed, cover the dish with foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes. The pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F.

Refined Cooking Notes For Pork Chops With Scalloped Potatoes

  • Use a mandoline or sharp knife to get uniform, thin potato slices that cook evenly in your dish.
  • Freshly shredded cheese melts smoother and tastes better than pre-shredded packaged cheese, giving your pork chops a richer flavor.
  • Sprinkle some dried thyme or rosemary into your potato mixture to add depth and complement the pork’s natural taste.
  • Cover the baking dish with foil during the first half of cooking to keep your pork chops juicy and prevent them from drying out.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork chops reach 145°F for perfectly cooked, safe-to-eat meat with a tender texture.

Easy Variations for Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes

  • Vegetarian Potato Gratin: Replace pork chops with seasoned tofu or plant-based protein slices, keeping the creamy potato base and cheese layers exactly the same.
  • Lean Protein Swap: Substitute pork chops with chicken breasts or turkey cutlets for a lighter protein option, adjusting cooking time to ensure the meat stays tender.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and coconut milk instead of regular milk, perfect for those avoiding dairy while maintaining the rich, comforting flavor profile of the original dish.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Swap potatoes with thinly sliced cauliflower or turnips, maintaining the cheesy, creamy texture while reducing carbohydrate content for a keto-friendly version.

Serving Ideas For Pork Chops With Scalloped Potatoes

  • Serve Family-Style: Bring the entire baking dish right to the table and let everyone scoop out their favorite combination of potatoes and pork chops.
  • Wine Pairing Recommendation: Grab a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio that will complement the creamy potato and rich pork flavors.
  • Perfect Side Dish: Toss a simple green salad with fresh herbs and a light vinaigrette to balance the hearty main course and add some freshness to your plate.
  • Quick Leftovers Tip: Chop up any remaining pork and potatoes the next day and reheat for a delicious breakfast hash topped with a fried egg.

Proper Storage For Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, making sure the pork chops and potatoes are completely cool before storing.
  • Freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and sealed in a freezer bag for convenient reheating later, keeping the meal fresh for about a month.
  • When reheating, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to retain moisture and prevent the edges from drying out.
  • Store any extra cheese or sliced potatoes separately in sealed containers to maintain their best quality and prevent flavor mixing.

Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Gruyère or Swiss cheese work wonderfully and add a rich, nutty flavor to your potato layer.

FAQ

How thick should the pork chops be?

Aim for 1-inch thick chops, which help keep the meat juicy and prevent overcooking during baking.

FAQ

What if my potatoes aren’t slicing evenly?

A mandoline slicer makes creating uniform potato slices super easy and gives you consistent thickness.

FAQ

Can frozen potatoes work in this recipe?

Fresh potatoes are best, as frozen varieties release too much moisture and can make your dish watery.

FAQ

Is it okay to make this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! Assemble everything and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking – just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQ

How do I know the pork is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer – the internal temperature should reach 145°F for perfectly cooked, safe-to-eat pork chops.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes – 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 5 1x

Description

Pork chops with scalloped potatoes blend comfort and flavor in a hearty dish your family craves. Creamy potato layers paired with tender, juicy pork create a classic meal perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 5 pork chops

Starches:

  • 5 potatoes (white or Yukon Gold)
  • 1 onion (sliced or diced)

Dairy and Seasonings:

  • 3 cups Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional:

  • Chives or green onions
  • Seasoning salt
  • Garlic salt

Instructions

  1. Warm your oven to 350°F and coat a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
  2. Carefully slice 5 potatoes into thin ¼-inch rounds using a sharp knife. Keep slices uniform for even cooking.
  3. Shred 3 cups of Cheddar cheese directly from a block, avoiding pre-shredded options that contain anti-caking agents.
  4. Combine potato slices, 1 diced onion, shredded cheese, 1 cup whole milk, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper in a large mixing bowl.
  5. Pour the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish. Dot the surface with 3 tablespoons of butter, distributing small pieces evenly.
  6. Place 5 pork chops atop the potato mixture, ensuring they sit slightly embedded but not completely submerged.
  7. Insert the dish into the 350°F oven and bake for 25 minutes uncovered.
  8. Carefully flip the pork chops and continue baking for another 25-30 minutes until internal pork temperature reaches 145°F.
  9. Remove from oven and let the dish rest for 5-7 minutes before serving to allow cheese sauce to set and pork to retain moisture.

Notes

  • Slice potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the dish.
  • Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and a creamier sauce compared to pre-shredded varieties.
  • For a lighter version, swap whole milk with low-fat milk and use lean pork chops to reduce calories.
  • Letting the dish rest for 10 minutes after baking helps the potatoes absorb more flavor and makes serving easier.
  • Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes – 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Category: Pork
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5
  • Calories: 735 kcal
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 620 mg
  • Fat: 45 g
  • Saturated Fat: 27 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 46 g
  • Cholesterol: 130 mg
Susan Whitaker

Susan Whitaker

Content Specialist & Home Cooking Guide

Expertise

Family-friendly Meals, Simple Healthy Cooking, Ingredient Substitutions, Beginner-friendly Recipes, Flexible Meal Prep

Education

Saint Paul College
  • Program: Culinary Arts Diploma
  • Focus: Trained in a hands-on professional kitchen environment with coursework spanning core culinary technique, pastry, butchery, charcuterie, food safety, sanitation, restaurant operations, and the nutritional side of healthy cooking, with real-world practice tied to the college’s student-run restaurant.

Susan is the steady, practical guide at Mary Sue & Susan, bringing clarity, structure, and a warm sense of encouragement to every recipe she touches. Susan joined the site with a simple goal: help people cook with more confidence and less guesswork.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star