Garlic Butter Pork Chops with Cheesy Potato Bake is the ultimate comfort food combo, blending tender, juicy pork chops with rich, creamy potatoes baked to perfection. The dish is a harmony of savory garlic butter flavors, earthy thyme, and the gooey indulgence of cheddar cheese. Perfect for family dinners, this hearty meal is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress without requiring complex techniques or hours in the kitchen.
This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily swap ingredients to suit your preferences—use Gruyère cheese for a sophisticated twist or add a handful of crispy bacon bits for extra flavor. With its golden crust and fragrant, buttery sauce, paired with the creamy, cheesy potatoes, this dish is as beautiful to present as it is satisfying to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Rich and Flavorful: Garlic butter, fresh thyme, and melted cheddar cheese come together for an irresistible flavor profile.
• One-Dish Wonder: The pork chops and potatoes bake together, making cleanup a breeze.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients
For the Pork Chops:
• 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
For the Cheesy Potato Bake:
• 4-5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Cheesy Potato Bake:
1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Caramelize the Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the sliced onions and cook until translucent and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Layer the Potatoes and Onions: Place half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the caramelized onions and sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, onions, and cheese.
4. Prepare the Sauce: In a saucepan, warm the milk and sour cream over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent curdling. Once warmed, pour the mixture evenly over the potatoes.
5. Bake Initially: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Cook the Pork Chops:
1. Season and Sear: Season the pork chops with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Make Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and thyme, cooking until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning the garlic butter sauce over them.
Assemble and Finish the Dish:
1. Combine Pork and Potatoes: Remove the foil from the potato dish. Place the browned pork chops on top of the potatoes and pour over any remaining garlic butter sauce.
2. Final Bake: Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Serve and Garnish:
1. Rest: Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
2. Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips
• Slice Potatoes Evenly: Use a mandoline slicer for consistent thickness, ensuring the potatoes cook evenly.
• Choose Quality Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for a bold flavor, or experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack.
• Test for Doneness: Ensure the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to avoid undercooking.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain crispness.
• Freezing: Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Garlic Butter Pork Chops with Cheesy Potato Bake is the perfect combination of hearty, cheesy, and savory goodness. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating your family to something special, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your table!
