This Pork Chop Casserole is a warm and hearty dish, perfect for feeding a family. Juicy pork chops sit atop a bed of cheesy potatoes and creamy sauce, making every bite delicious!
I love how simple it is to prepare. Just layer everything in a dish, pop it in the oven, and relax while it cooks. Dinner’s a breeze with this one! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops give great flavor and keep the meat juicy during cooking. If you prefer boneless, that’s okay too! Just cook for a little less time.
Mushrooms: For the best taste, I recommend cremini or button mushrooms. If you’re not a mushroom fan, try adding spinach or chopped bell peppers for a different flavor.
Heavy Cream: This creates a rich, creamy sauce. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute it with half-and-half or even Greek yogurt (just mix it in after taking the casserole out of the oven).
Cheddar Cheese: This is optional, but it adds a nice creamy texture. You could use mozzarella, gouda, or even a dairy-free cheese if you like!
How Can I Ensure the Pork Chops Are Tender and Juicy?
Browning the pork chops before baking is key for flavor and moisture. Here’s how I do it:
- Heat the oil until it’s hot, but not smoking. This helps to lock in the juices.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. You want a good sear!
- Let the chops rest for a few minutes after browning. This keeps them juicy when they bake.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have tender, juicy pork chops nestled in a delectable mushroom sauce every time!
How to Make Pork Chop Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Pork Chop Casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep and another 30 minutes to bake, making a total of around 45 minutes from start to finish. A quick yet hearty meal for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pork Chops:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, season the pork chops generously with salt and black pepper. Then dredge each chop in flour, shaking off any excess flour so they are lightly coated.
2. Brown the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops to the skillet. Brown them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they have a nice golden color. After browning, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Create the Mushroom Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until they’re translucent. Then, add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook them for about 5 minutes, or until they start to brown and release their moisture. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Combine the Sauce Ingredients:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet, stirring everything together. Sprinkle in the dried thyme and paprika, and let this mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Now, transfer the mushroom and cream mixture to a casserole dish. Nestle the browned pork chops right on top of the mushroom mixture. If you’d like, you can sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the pork chops for an extra cheesy layer!
6. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake it uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. You want the pork chops to be fully cooked and the sauce to be bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and garnish it with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve your creamy Pork Chop Casserole warm, alongside some side vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. Enjoy!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops work just fine. Just reduce the cooking time slightly to ensure they don’t dry out; start checking for doneness a few minutes earlier.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute, keeping in mind the flavor may vary.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated thoroughly. You might want to add a splash of broth or cream to keep it moist!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add in some cooked green beans, broccoli, or spinach to the mushroom mixture for extra nutrients and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed for the added vegetables!
