This Smothered Pork Chop Casserole is a warm, hearty meal that combines juicy pork chops with creamy, savory goodness. It’s like a cozy hug in a dish!
The best part? You can prepare it all in one pan. It’s super simple, so you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying dinner with your loved ones!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are juicy and flavorful. If you prefer, you can use boneless chops, but they might cook quicker, so keep an eye on them to avoid drying out.
Onions: Yellow onions work best for a sweeter flavor, but if you’re out, white onions or shallots can also be good substitutes.
Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms add great texture. You can replace them with canned mushrooms in a pinch, but be sure to drain them well to avoid extra moisture.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk, but note that the sauce might be a bit less creamy.
Cheese: While I love cheddar, you could use Monterey Jack or even a mix of your favorites. Feel free to skip the cheese if you’re looking for a dairy-free option—just adjust the cream accordingly.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Seared Pork Chops?
Searing the pork chops is crucial to lock in flavor and moisture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the oil—this helps create a nice crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; sear in batches if necessary to maintain the heat.
- Leave the chops undisturbed for a few minutes. They need time to form that golden brown crust. Flip once you’re nicely browned.
Remember, these chops don’t need to be fully cooked in this step. They’ll finish cooking in the oven, soaking up all those delicious flavors!
Smothered Pork Chop Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For The Sauce and Toppings:
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting casserole takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 25 minutes to bake, for a total of around 40 minutes from start to delicious finish. You can easily fit this recipe into your busy evening schedule!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, season your pork chops on both sides with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and dried sage. This will make them flavor-packed!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned pork chops. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Don’t worry if they aren’t cooked through yet; they’ll finish cooking in the oven. After searing, take them out and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, toss in the sliced onions and mushrooms. Sauté them until the onions become translucent and the mushrooms are nicely browned—this should take around 5-7 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Add the chicken broth to the pan, scraping up any brown bits that may have stuck to the bottom. These add great flavor! Stir in the heavy cream and dried thyme, letting the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slighty.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Place the seared pork chops in an oven-safe casserole dish. Pour the creamy mushroom and onion sauce evenly over the top of the chops. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over everything.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Put the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. You want the pork chops to be fully cooked (aim for an internal temperature of 145°F/63°C) and the cheese to melt and become bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this dish with your family or friends!
This casserole offers tender, juicy pork chops generously smothered in a creamy mushroom and onion gravy, topped with melted cheese and fresh parsley—absolutely delicious and perfect for an easy family dinner.
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind that they may cook faster, so check their internal temperature to avoid overcooking. Aim for 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Just note that the sauce may not be as rich and creamy, but it will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Casserole in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra few minutes to the baking time if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.