Let’s talk comfort food. I’m talking about that dish that just wraps you in a warm hug, makes you forget all your troubles. Is it a reminder of simpler times? What do you think of this smothered pork chop casserole? Is it like a warm blanket on chilly evenings? If you love Chicken Pot Pie, prepare to meet its savory, porky cousin that might just steal your heart. What is your review of Smothered Pork Chop Casserole?
What is a smothered pork chop casserole?
What is a smothered pork chop casserole? What is the best hug you can give to a pork chop? It’s essentially tender, juicy Pork Chops nestled in a creamy, flavorful gravy, often with an extra layer of sauce. Is there something comforting on top – biscuits, mashed potatoes, or even stuffing? The name comes from the fact that pork chops are completely smothered in that amazing sauce. What is a one-dish wonder that’s perfect for those nights when you want something hearty and satisfying? How can I cook without spending hours in the kitchen? What’s the difference between a biscuit and biscuit topping? I know you will not miss it!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Alright, let’s get down to brass tacks. Why should you make this recipe? Let me tell you why I’m obsessed. First off, the flavor is out of this world. We’re talking savory pork, rich gravy, and a hint of herbs that all come together in perfect harmony. It’s the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes and savor every single bite. Second, it’s surprisingly easy to make. Seriously, don’t let the “casserole” part scare you. This recipe is streamlined and perfect for a weeknight meal.
What I love most about this **Smothered Pork Chop Casserole** is that it uses budget-friendly ingredients. Pork chops are often more affordable than other cuts of meat, and the rest of the ingredients are pantry staples. This makes it a winner for both your taste buds and your wallet. And finally, it’s incredibly versatile. You can serve it with Mashed Potatoes, rice, or even a simple side salad. It’s fantastic on its own, too. I often switch up the veggies depending on what I have on hand – green beans, peas, or even carrots work great. If you’re a fan of my Creamy Chicken and Biscuits recipe, I promise you’ll adore this pork chop version just as much!
How do you make a smothered pork chop casserole?
Quick Overview
What is the easiest way to make a smothered pork chop casserole? What is the best way to cook Pork Chops? How do you make a creamy gravy in the same pan? Is it necessary to arrange everything in a casserole dish and bake it until bubbly and golden brown? It’s mostly hands-off cooking, which means you can relax while dinner practically makes itself. What’s the secret ingredient of Worcestershire sauce?
Ingredients
For Pork Chops: For the Porky
• 4 boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick. I prefer boneless because they cook more evenly, but bone-in will work too – just adjust the cooking time.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil. I like olive oil for cooking, but I don’t like it.
• 1 teaspoon salt. Sea salt or kosher salt is best.
• 2 teaspoons Black Pepper. Freshly ground is always better!
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Adds a nice savory note.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder. For extra flavor depth.
For the Creamy Gravy:
• 4 tablespoons butter. Unsalted is my go-to, so you can control the saltiness of the dish.
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour. This is what thickens the gravy. Can you use a gluten-free blend if needed?
• 3 cups chicken broth. Low-sodium is always a good idea.
• 1 cup milk. I use whole milk for extra creaminess, but 2% or even almond milk will work. I tested this with almond milk once, and it made it even creamier!
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme. Adds a lovely earthy flavor.
• 12 teaspoon dried rosemary. Pairs perfectly with thyme.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce. This is my secret ingredient – it adds a ton of umami flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste. Always season to your liking!
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. I like to use cooking spray, but you can also use butter or oil. How do you prevent a casserole from sticking to the bottom?
Step 2: Season the Pork Chops
In a small bowl, combine the onion powder, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Set aside. How do you rub pork chops? Where does the flavor magic happen?
Step 3: Sear the Pork Chops
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 5 minutes. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet. How long should you cook them? Don’t worry about cooking them all the way through at this point – we just want to get a good sear. Remove pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 4: Make the Gravy
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. This will create a roux, which will thicken the gravy. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid any lumps. What are the ingredients for the Worcestershire sauce? Bring the gravy to a simmer, and then reduce the heat to low and cook for about 5 minutes. How do I make a thickening paste? Season with salt and pepper. I always do a taste test at this point to make sure the flavors are just right.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
How do you pour half of the gravy into a casserole dish? Then, arrange the seared pork chops on top of the gravy. If you have pork chops, pour the remaining gravy over them, making sure they are completely smothered. What is the secret to a delicious smothered pork chop casserole?
Step 6: Bake
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through. And the gravy is bubbly and golden brown. The internal temperature of pork chops should reach 145°F (63°C).
Step 7: Rest & Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. How do I make gravy thicker?
What is the best way to serve it?
This **Smothered Pork Chop Casserole** is a star on its own, but it’s even better with the right side of the recipe. What are What are some of my favorite ways to serve it: a salad, steamed rice, or boiled eggs.
For a Classic Comfort Meal:Serve with Mashed Potatoes and green beans. What is my go-to combination – it’s simple, satisfying, and always a hit.
What is a hearty dinner?Pair it with rice and a roasted vegetable, like carrots or broccoli. What is the best way to add nutrients to a meal?
For a lighter option:Serve with a side salad. Is this a comforting pillow?
Family Tradition: What isWhat is best served with homemade corn bread? Is it sweet and savoury?
How do I make a smothered pork chop casserole?
What are some of the best ways to take your smothered pork chops to the next level?
Pork Chop Prep: Don’t skip the searing step! Searing the pork chops adds a ton of flavor and helps to seal in the juices. Make sure your skillet is nice and hot before adding the pork chops.
Mixing Advice: For the smoothest gravy, make sure to whisk the flour and butter together until it forms a smooth paste. Then, slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid any lumps. Nobody likes a lumpy gravy!
Swirl Customization: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in the gravy. Thyme and rosemary are my favorites, but you could also try adding some sage, oregano, or even a pinch of Red Pepper flakes for a little bit of heat.
Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, you can use vegetable broth or even water. Just keep in mind that the flavor of the gravy might be slightly different.
Baking Tips: If the top of the casserole starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from burning. Just make sure to remove the foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking so that the gravy can get bubbly and golden brown.
Lessons Learned: I used to just dump all the broth in at once, and it would always end up lumpy! Whisking constantly really does make a difference.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftover **Smothered Pork Chop Casserole**, you can store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Here’s how:
Refrigerator Storage: Let the casserole cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I find it tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have had a chance to meld together.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. You can also transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Thawing: When you’re ready to reheat the casserole, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. This is the safest way to thaw it and will help to prevent bacteria from growing.
Reheating: To reheat the casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until it is heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the gravy might not be as creamy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my **Smothered Pork Chop Casserole** recipe! I truly hope you give it a try. It’s one of those dishes that just makes everything better, and I know it will become a family favorite in Your house, just like it is in mine. The combination of tender pork chops and creamy gravy is simply irresistible. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other casserole recipes for more easy and delicious meal ideas. Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think, and don’t forget to share your own variations!
Smothered Pork Chop Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pounds pork chops
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 0.5 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season pork chops with salt and pepper. Brown in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Layer potatoes in a greased casserole dish. Top with browned pork chops.
- In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk, and thyme. Pour over pork chops and potatoes.
- Bake for 45 minutes, or until pork chops are cooked through and potatoes are tender.
