If you’re craving a meal that delivers comfort, richness, and a serious punch of flavor, these Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes will not disappoint. Juicy, pan-seared pork chops are coated in a savory garlic-Parmesan crust, then served alongside creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes that melt in your mouth. I made this dish once for Sunday dinner, and the combination of crispy, golden pork chops and velvety potatoes had everyone asking for seconds. It’s hearty, elegant, and bursting with bold, comforting flavor — a true flavor explosion on a plate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This meal combines the best of both worlds: tender, juicy pork chops seasoned with garlic and Parmesan, and rich scalloped potatoes baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a full, satisfying dinner that feels gourmet but is surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for special occasions or cozy family dinners, this recipe turns simple ingredients into something unforgettable. Every bite delivers buttery, garlicky perfection balanced by the creamy comfort of cheesy potatoes.
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Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food meal — juicy, pan-seared pork chops smothered in a buttery garlic Parmesan sauce, served alongside rich, creamy scalloped potatoes layered with melted cheese. A true flavor explosion on a plate!
Ingredients
- For the Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- For the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Make the Scalloped Potatoes: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in flour to make a roux and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth and thickened. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, salt, and pepper until melted.
- Layer half of the potato slices in the baking dish, pour half the cheese sauce over them, then repeat layers. Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Prepare the Pork Chops: While the potatoes bake, season pork chops with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return pork chops to the skillet, spoon the garlic Parmesan sauce over the top, and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Serve pork chops hot with a side of cheesy scalloped potatoes. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne to the sauce.
- Use a mandoline slicer for even potato slices and perfect layering.
- This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop & Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
Pork Chops
Use thick-cut boneless or bone-in pork chops — about 1 inch thick. They stay juicy and sear beautifully.
Parmesan Cheese
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese forms a flavorful crust and adds nutty, salty richness.
Garlic
Fresh minced garlic is the star flavor — aromatic, savory, and perfect with pork.
Butter
Unsalted butter helps brown the pork chops and infuses the sauce with rich flavor.
Olive Oil
A touch of olive oil helps achieve a golden sear and prevents the butter from burning.
Italian Seasoning
A pinch of Italian seasoning or herbs (basil, oregano, thyme) complements the garlic beautifully.
Salt and Pepper
Season generously — simple seasoning enhances every bite.
For the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Potatoes
Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, thinly sliced for creamy layers that hold together well.
Butter
Butter adds richness to the sauce and helps create a silky texture.
Garlic
Minced garlic gives the cream sauce bold flavor that pairs perfectly with cheese.
Heavy Cream
Heavy cream creates a luscious, creamy sauce that binds the layers of potatoes.
Milk
A splash of milk lightens the cream while keeping the sauce rich and smooth.
Cheddar Cheese
Sharp cheddar cheese melts into the sauce, creating creamy, gooey layers of flavor.
Parmesan Cheese
A sprinkle of Parmesan on top adds crisp, salty goodness to the baked potatoes.
Salt and Black Pepper
Season to taste — the right balance brings out the flavor of both potatoes and cheese.
Directions
For the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:
- Preheat the oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, milk, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Layer the potatoes: Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes in the baking dish, pour a bit of the cream mixture over them, and sprinkle with cheddar cheese. Repeat layers until all potatoes are used, finishing with sauce and Parmesan on top.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
For the Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops:
- Season the pork: Pat pork chops dry, then season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Sear: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Make the garlic butter sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add remaining butter. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add Parmesan cheese and a splash of cream or broth, stirring until slightly thickened.
- Coat the pork chops: Return the pork chops to the skillet and spoon the garlic-Parmesan butter sauce over them. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until fully cooked through (internal temp 145°F/63°C).
- Serve: Plate the pork chops alongside a generous serving of scalloped potatoes. Spoon extra sauce over both for the ultimate flavor experience.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mandoline or sharp knife (for slicing potatoes)
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or tongs
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: Approximately 1 hour 25 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions. Add a splash of milk or cream to the potatoes before reheating to keep them creamy.
Variations and Customizations
Creamy Mushroom Sauce – Add sautéed mushrooms to the garlic butter sauce for an earthy twist.
Bacon Lovers’ Edition – Sprinkle cooked bacon over the potatoes before baking for a smoky, savory boost.
Spicy Parmesan Chops – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a little heat.
Herb-Infused Potatoes – Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the cream sauce for an aromatic touch.
Cheese Blend Upgrade – Combine mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan for extra cheesiness.
Lemon Garlic Twist – Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the pork chops before serving for brightness.
One-Pan Shortcut – Use a large oven-safe skillet to cook the pork chops and bake the potatoes together for fewer dishes.
FAQs
What’s the best cut of pork for this recipe?
Thick-cut boneless or bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick) work best for juicy, flavorful results.
Can I make the potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, assemble them up to a day in advance and bake just before serving.
How do I know when the pork chops are done?
Use a meat thermometer — they’re ready at 145°F (63°C) with a slight blush in the center.
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be slightly lighter and less rich.
Can I use grated Parmesan from a can?
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives the best flavor, but pre-grated works in a pinch.
How can I make the dish less rich?
Use milk instead of cream for the potatoes and reduce butter slightly in the sauce.
Can I use chicken instead of pork chops?
Yes, chicken breasts or thighs work beautifully with the same sauce and sides.
What sides go well with this dish?
A crisp green salad or roasted green beans complement the richness perfectly.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, both the pork and potatoes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
How can I prevent the potatoes from curdling?
Simmer the cream gently and avoid boiling once the dairy is added.
Conclusion
This Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is the definition of comfort food done right — rich, creamy, and packed with flavor in every bite. The garlicky, buttery pork pairs perfectly with the cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth potatoes for a meal that feels indulgent yet homey. Whether for Sunday dinner, a special occasion, or just because you deserve it, this dish promises a flavor explosion on a plate every single time.
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