Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole – The Ultimate Cozy Comfort Bake

Some meals instantly feel like home, and this Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole is one of them. It’s rich, creamy, hearty, and unapologetically comforting—the kind of dish that fills the kitchen with warmth and brings everyone to the table without needing to be called twice. Tender pork chops, thinly sliced potatoes, and a silky homemade gravy all bake together into a one-dish meal that feels both nostalgic and deeply satisfying.

This casserole takes inspiration from classic Southern smothered pork chops and traditional scalloped potatoes, blending the two into a single, oven-baked masterpiece. Instead of juggling multiple pans on the stove, everything comes together in layers, allowing the flavors to mingle and deepen as it bakes. The pork chops stay juicy while the potatoes soak up every bit of the creamy sauce.

What makes this dish especially appealing is its balance. The pork chops add savory richness, while the potatoes provide comfort and structure. Onions and garlic melt into the sauce, creating a natural sweetness that complements the meat perfectly. A touch of thyme and paprika rounds everything out with gentle warmth, making the casserole flavorful without being overwhelming.

This is the kind of recipe that’s perfect for Sunday dinners, family gatherings, or cozy weeknights when you want something filling and dependable. It doesn’t rely on fancy ingredients or complicated techniques—just simple, honest cooking that delivers big results. Serve it straight from the oven and watch it disappear.

Another reason this casserole earns a permanent place in your recipe rotation is how practical it is. It can be assembled ahead of time, feeds a crowd, and reheats beautifully. Paired with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables, it becomes a complete meal that feels special without requiring extra effort.

If you love dishes that are creamy, savory, and baked to golden perfection, this Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole will quickly become a favorite. It’s comfort food at its finest—warm, familiar, and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish.
2. Season pork chops generously with salt and black pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter and add sliced onion. Cook for 5–6 minutes until soft and lightly caramelized.
5. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Sprinkle flour over onions and stir well. Cook for 1 minute.
7. Slowly whisk in milk, chicken broth, and heavy cream.
8. Add thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened.
9. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish. Season lightly.
10. Place pork chops on top of potatoes.
11. Add remaining potatoes over the pork chops.
12. Pour the onion gravy evenly over everything.
13. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
14. Remove foil and bake an additional 20–25 minutes until potatoes are tender and top is lightly golden.
15. Rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole

A rich and comforting casserole with tender pork chops baked into creamy scalloped potatoes and savory onion gravy.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 520

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Casserole

• 4 pieces pork chops
• 4 large russet potatoes thinly sliced
• 1 large onion sliced
• 1.5 cups milk

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking dish
• Whisk
• Knife

Method

 

1. Sear pork chops until lightly golden.
2. Prepare onion gravy until thickened.
3. Layer potatoes, pork chops, and sauce.
4. Bake covered, then uncovered until tender.

Notes

Rest casserole before serving for best texture.

Tips & Tricks

• Slice potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.
• Searing the pork chops adds extra flavor but keeps them juicy.
• Let the casserole rest before serving so the sauce thickens properly.
• Use a mandoline for quick, uniform potato slices.

Variations

• Cheesy Version: Add shredded cheddar or Gruyère between potato layers.
• Mushroom Smothered: Add sautéed mushrooms to the gravy.
• Herb Boost: Add rosemary or sage for deeper flavor.
• Lighter Option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or a crisp garden salad to balance the richness. Warm dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

Storage Information

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

FAQ

Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, just be careful not to overcook them.

Can this be made ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze fully cooked and cooled casserole for up to 2 months.

Why This Casserole Works

By baking the pork chops directly with the potatoes and sauce, every layer absorbs flavor, creating a cohesive, comforting dish that tastes like it took all day to make.