Irresistible B Comfort Food Classic

 Irresistible Baked Pork Chops with Creamy Potatoes – A Comfort Food Classic

## 🐖🥔 Irresistible Baked Pork Chops with Creamy Potatoes – A Comfort Food Classic

When it comes to timeless comfort food, few meals beat a hearty plate of **baked pork chops nestled in creamy, tender potatoes**. This dish is **savory, rich, and belly-warming**, perfect for Sunday dinner or a chilly weeknight when you want something hearty without the hassle. The pork chops bake until juicy and golden, while the potatoes soak up all that creamy, flavorful goodness. One pan, no stress — just classic comfort done right.

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## 🧾 Ingredients

### For the Pork Chops:

* **4 bone-in or boneless pork chops**, about 1 inch thick

  *Tender and juicy — bone-in gives even more flavor.*

* **1 tsp garlic powder**

* **1 tsp onion powder**

* **½ tsp paprika**

* **Salt and black pepper**, to taste

* **2 tbsp olive oil** or butter, for searing

### For the Creamy Potatoes:

* **4–5 medium russet or Yukon Gold potatoes**, thinly sliced

  *Soft and starchy, they absorb the creamy sauce beautifully.*

* **1 small onion**, thinly sliced

  *Adds sweetness and depth.*

* **2 cups heavy cream** (or use 1½ cups cream + ½ cup chicken broth)

  *Creates the luscious sauce.*

* **1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella** *(optional)*

  *Melty, cheesy goodness layered in.*

* **2 cloves garlic**, minced

* **1 tsp dried thyme** or Italian seasoning

* **Salt and pepper**, to taste

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## 👩‍🍳 Instructions

### 🔹 1. Preheat Oven

* Preheat oven to **375°F (190°C)**. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

### 🔹 2. Season and Sear Pork Chops

* Pat chops dry. Season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

* In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sear pork chops for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.

### 🔹 3. Assemble the Casserole

* Layer sliced potatoes and onions in the bottom of the dish.

* Season lightly with salt, pepper, and thyme.

* Pour over cream (and broth if using). Add minced garlic and optional shredded cheese between layers or on top.

* Nestle pork chops on top of the creamy potato mixture.

### 🔹 4. Bake

* Cover with foil and bake for **45 minutes**.

* Uncover and bake an additional **20–25 minutes**, until potatoes are fork-tender and the top is golden and bubbling.

### 🔹 5. Rest and Serve

* Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.

* Garnish with chopped parsley or thyme if desired.

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## 🍽️ Serving Suggestions

* Serve with a side of **steamed green beans**, **roasted carrots**, or **buttered peas**

* Pair with a **crisp green salad** for freshness

* Add warm **biscuits or dinner rolls** to soak up the extra sauce!

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## 💡 Tips & Variations

* **Cheesy option**: Add a layer of cheese over the potatoes before placing the chops on top.

* **Shortcut**: Use store-bought scalloped potatoes mix and top with your own seasoned pork chops.

* **Make it herby**: Try rosemary, sage, or a pinch of nutmeg for deeper flavor.

* **Low-carb option**: Swap potatoes with thinly sliced turnips or cauliflower.