When was the last time a meal made you feel warm, cozy, and completely satisfied? If you’re craving something indulgent yet easy to whip up, Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes might just be the answer. Imagine golden, crispy pork chops resting on a bed of creamy, cheesy potatoes — it’s like a hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner, this recipe will win hearts and fill bellies.
Let’s walk you through everything you need to know about making this mouthwatering masterpiece.
1. Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s keep things simple. Here’s what you need:
4 pork chops
4 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried thyme
4 cups thinly sliced potatoes
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper, to taste
These basic pantry and fridge staples come together in a magical way. The combination of garlic, cheese, and cream transforms this dish from ordinary to unforgettable.
2. Why This Dish Works So Well
This meal strikes the perfect balance between rich flavors and comforting textures. The pork chops are tender and juicy, while the scalloped potatoes are creamy with a crispy golden top. It’s the kind of meal you imagine eating at grandma’s house on a Sunday evening — timeless, hearty, and made with love.
3. The Star of the Show: Pork Chops
Not all pork chops are created equal. Choose bone-in for extra flavor or boneless if you prefer leaner meat. The key is to brown them before baking — this locks in moisture and adds a lovely caramelized crust.
Tip: Avoid overcooking pork. The perfect internal temperature is 145°F (63°C).
4. Garlic and Parmesan: A Flavorful Duo
Garlic and Parmesan are like peanut butter and jelly — they just work together. Garlic brings in a punch of aroma while Parmesan adds salty, umami goodness. When rubbed onto pork chops, they infuse every bite with flavor.
Think of them as your secret weapons in the kitchen.
5. Potatoes Done Right: Thin and Tender
For the perfect scalloped potatoes:
Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes.
Slice them very thin (a mandoline slicer helps).
Layer them evenly for even cooking.
When baked with cheese and cream, these thin slices absorb all the rich flavor while staying melt-in-your-mouth tender.
6. The Role of Cheese: Cheddar & Parmesan
This dish brings in a cheesy double whammy:
Parmesan adds sharp, salty flavor.
Cheddar melts beautifully into the cream, creating a rich, velvety sauce.
You get cheesy pull, crispy edges, and deep flavor — what more could you ask for?
7. Creamy Goodness: The Magic of Heavy Cream
Heavy cream ties everything together. It turns your cheddar into a luxurious sauce and keeps the potatoes moist while baking. Avoid using milk — it won’t give you the same richness.
8. Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to bring it all together:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season the pork chops with minced garlic, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Brown the pork chops (about 4 minutes per side).
Arrange sliced potatoes in a baking dish.
Mix heavy cream with shredded cheddar cheese and pour over the potatoes.
Place the pork chops on top.
Bake for 50 minutes or until the pork reaches 145°F and potatoes are fork-tender.
Serve warm and enjoy the oohs and ahhs from your family or guests!
9. Tips for Perfect Pork Chops
Don’t skip the sear. It locks in flavor.
Let the pork rest before serving to retain juices.
Use a meat thermometer to avoid drying them out.
Think of pork like a sponge — overcook it, and it dries out fast.
10. Choosing the Right Potatoes
Yukon Gold is ideal for creaminess, while Russet gives a fluffier texture. Whatever you choose, make sure they’re sliced evenly and thinly.
Pro tip: Don’t rinse the slices — you want the starch to help thicken the cream.
11. Variations and Add-Ons
Want to tweak the recipe a bit? Try these ideas:
Add spinach or kale between potato layers.
Top with breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Use smoked cheddar for a bolder flavor.
Feel free to get creative — this recipe is a solid base to build on.
12. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Too-thick potato slices won’t cook evenly.
Using lean pork cuts can lead to dryness.
Not covering the dish (if the top browns too fast, loosely tent with foil).
13. Ideal Pairings and Side Dishes
Although it’s a complete meal, you can round it out with:
Steamed green beans or asparagus
A crisp garden salad
Garlic bread or dinner rolls
Something fresh and green cuts through the richness perfectly.
14. Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
To reheat:
Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 mins
Microwave: Cover and heat in short bursts to avoid drying
Note: Add a splash of cream if reheating in the oven to keep things moist.
15. Final Thoughts
There’s something nostalgic and utterly satisfying about Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. It’s not just a meal — it’s a moment. Whether you’re treating yourself or feeding the family, this dish brings flavor, comfort, and smiles to the table. And the best part? It’s easy enough for a weeknight, yet impressive enough for guests.
So grab your apron, preheat that oven, and let the magic happen in your kitchen tonight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just reduce the cooking time slightly, as boneless chops cook faster.
2. Can I substitute heavy cream with something else?
For best results, stick with heavy cream. You can use half-and-half, but the dish may be less rich.
3. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
It already is — just make sure your cheeses are gluten-free certified!
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prep everything the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
5. What’s the best way to thinly slice the potatoes?
A mandoline slicer gives uniform, thin slices quickly and easily.
Want more comforting meals like this? Bookmark this recipe and share it with fellow food lovers. Because great food is meant to be shared — especially when it’s as good as Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes.
