Directions to follow
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Season each pork chop with salt and black pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat, then brown the pork chops on both sides for about 3-4 minutes. Once browned, set them aside.
- Next, in a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and warmed whole milk until thoroughly combined.
- In a greased baking dish, layer the scalloped potatoes first, then top them with the browned pork chops. Pour the creamy mixture over everything.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Colby jack cheese on top for that cheesy goodness.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and add the French fried onions along with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese. Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Finally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
When serving Smothered Pork Chops, consider pairing them with steamed green beans or a crispy side salad to add freshness to your meal. You can also serve this dish with warm, crusty bread to soak up every bit of that delicious creamy sauce. For a comforting family-style presentation, serve the dish right from the baking dish, allowing everyone to help themselves.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them for longer, this dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When reheating, gently warm in the oven until heated through to maintain that creamy texture.
Helpful cooking tips
To elevate your Smothered Pork Chops further, consider marinating the pork chops in your favorite spices or a simple soy sauce and garlic mixture for a couple of hours before cooking. Also, for added texture and flavor, feel free to incorporate different vegetables, like mushrooms or spinach, into the creamy sauce.
Creative twists
Bored of the classic recipe? Mix things up a bit! You could swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken soup for a milder flavor. Alternatively, experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or switch the pork chops for chicken breasts for a lighter option. You can even add some sautéed apples for a sweet and savory combination!
FAQ
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The total time to prepare and cook Smothered Pork Chops is about 1 hour, including 30 minutes of baking.
What can I substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?
You can use homemade creamy mushroom sauce, cream of chicken soup, or any creamy soup of your preference.
Is it safe to freeze leftovers?
Yes! This dish freezes well. Just make sure to cool completely and store in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
