This Smothered Pork Chop Casserole is a warm and cozy meal that’s perfect for the whole family. Tender pork chops are nestled in a creamy sauce with tasty veggies and topped with crispy, golden breadcrumbs.
I love how easy it is to throw together! Just mix, bake, and watch the smiles appear around the dinner table. It’s a comforting dish that warms your heart—and your belly! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops stay juicy and tender during cooking. If you prefer boneless, that works too, but they may need less cooking time.
Mushrooms: I recommend using button or cremini mushrooms for a great taste. If you can’t find mushrooms, you could try using zucchini or spinach instead, which adds nice flavor too.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely fragrance, but dried thyme is a great substitute. Just remember, use less dried than fresh—about one-third is all you need!
Cheese: I love the combo of cheddar and mozzarella for a creamy topping. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Browned Pork Chops?
Browning the pork chops is crucial for flavor! Here’s how to do it right:
- Pat the chops dry; this helps them brown nicely. Moisture can prevent a good sear.
- Heat the oil in a hot skillet. The oil should shimmer, not smoke. This ensures a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If your skillet is too full, the pork will steam rather than brown.
- Brown each side for about 3-4 minutes until a nice crust forms, then remove them before they cook through. This keeps them juicy!
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious casserole that everyone will love. Happy cooking!
Smothered Pork Chop Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce and Toppings:
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme or 4 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, divided
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons butter (if using flour)
- Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to bake, making it quick and easy to whip up a hearty meal. Total time: approximately 40 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s ready when our casserole is assembled.
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon of thyme to add wonderful flavor.
3. Brown the Pork Chops:
In a large oven-safe skillet or casserole dish, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and brown them on both sides for about 3-4 minutes each. Once nicely browned, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside. This step seals in the juicy flavor!
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and mushrooms. Sauté until they’re softened and browned—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
5. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Next, stir in the heavy cream and the remaining thyme. If you prefer a thicker sauce, melt the butter in the pan, whisk in the flour, and cook until bubbly, then add this mixture to the sauce.
6. Combine and Prep for Baking:
Return the browned pork chops to the skillet, nesting them in the creamy mushroom sauce. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top, adding a delicious cheesy layer.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the pork chops are cooked through (an internal temperature of 145°F / 63°C) and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs. Serve immediately, spooning extra sauce over each chop for added flavor. Pair this dish with mashed potatoes, rice, or some steamed veggies for a complete meal!
Enjoy your delicious Smothered Pork Chop Casserole – comforting and full of flavor!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops, but be aware that they may cook faster than bone-in chops. Keep an eye on them and check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Just note that the sauce may be a bit thinner.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the sauté. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is tender.
