Pork Chop Potato Casserole

There’s something incredibly heartwarming about a well-made casserole. The combination of savory ingredients melded together into a creamy, comforting dish evokes memories of family dinners, cozy evenings, and shared laughter. One such dish that has a special place in my heart is the Pork Chop Potato Casserole. This dish was a staple at family gatherings during my childhood, especially around the holidays. I remember watching my grandmother, with her hands covered in flour and her kitchen filled with the tantalizing aroma of pork chops searing in the skillet. The smell would make my mouth water, and as the casserole baked, anticipation built to a fever pitch. When we finally sat down to eat, the crispy, cheesy top and tender, flavorful pork chops would make everyone at the table smile.

Pork Chop Potato Casserole is not only a classic comfort food but also an incredibly versatile and easy-to-make dish. The layers of thinly sliced potatoes and savory pork chops, smothered in a creamy sauce and topped with cheese, create a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a hearty dish to share with friends, this casserole is sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this timeless recipe.

INGREDIENTS:

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

6 boneless pork chops

1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup

1 cup milk

4 potatoes, thinly sliced

½ cup chopped onion

1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat the Oven

Set the Temperature: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that the casserole will bake evenly and develop a golden, bubbly top.

Prepare the Pork Chops

Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough to sear the pork chops, creating a flavorful crust.

Sear the Pork Chops: Once the oil is hot, add the boneless pork chops to the skillet. Sear each side of the pork chops for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are nicely browned. This process locks in the juices and adds depth of flavor to the casserole. Remember, the pork chops do not need to be cooked through at this stage; they will continue cooking in the oven.

Remove and Set Aside: After browning, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. They will be added to the casserole later.

Prepare the Casserole Dish

Arrange Potatoes and Onions: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange the thinly sliced potatoes in an even layer. Spread the chopped onions over the potatoes. This creates a flavorful base that will absorb all the delicious juices from the pork chops and sauce.

Prepare the Sauce

Combine Soup and Milk: In a medium bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup with 1 cup of milk. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and uniform. This mixture will serve as the creamy sauce that brings the casserole together.

Assemble the Casserole

Layer the Pork Chops: Place the seared pork chops on top of the layer of potatoes and onions in the baking dish. The pork chops will cook further in the casserole, so their placement is essential for even cooking and flavor distribution.

Pour the Sauce: Pour the soup mixture over the pork chops, potatoes, and onions in the baking dish. The sauce will seep down and coat the layers, creating a rich and creamy texture.

Bake the Casserole

Initial Baking: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. During this time, the potatoes will cook and absorb the flavors from the pork chops and sauce.

Add the Cheese: After 30 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the top. This will create a deliciously gooey and golden cheese layer as it bakes.

Final Baking: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes. The cheese should be melted, bubbly, and slightly browned. The casserole is done when the potatoes are tender …