Garlic Butter Pork Chops with Cheesy Potato Bake is a comforting, hearty meal that combines tender, juicy pork chops with a rich and creamy potato side dish.

The garlic butter enhances the flavor of the pork chops, while the cheesy potato bake delivers the perfect balance of creaminess and crunch. It’s a versatile recipe that’s easy enough for weeknight dinners and special enough for entertaining guests. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

Large skillet
Baking dish (9×13 inches)
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Knife and cutting board
Aluminum foil

Ingredients:

For the garlic butter pork chops:

4 bone-in or boneless pork chops, about 1 inch thick
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the cheesy potato bake:

4–5 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. Prepare the cheesy potato bake:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream, milk, garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Arrange the potato slices in the baking dish in overlapping layers. Pour the cream mixture evenly over the potatoes. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses over the top. Drizzle with melted butter. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

2. Cook the pork chops:

Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Reduce the heat to medium, add butter, minced garlic, and thyme to the skillet. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted garlic butter over the pork chops. Cook for an additional 3–5 minutes, depending on the thickness of the pork chops, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

3. Combine and serve:

Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after cooking. Serve alongside the cheesy potato bake, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cook Time:

1 hour

Total Time:

1 hour 20 minutes

Nutrition (per serving):

Calories: 610
Protein: 36g
Fat: 38g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g

Expert Tips:

Slice potatoes evenly: Use a mandoline slicer for uniform potato slices, ensuring even cooking.
Don’t skip resting: Allowing the pork chops to rest after cooking helps retain their juices.
Cheese blend: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for added flavor.
Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley enhances the overall dish with vibrant flavor.

FAQs:

Can I make the cheesy potato bake ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate it covered until ready to bake. Add an extra 10–15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

What’s the best way to tell if the pork chops are done?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, boneless pork chops work well, but they may cook faster, so monitor closely to avoid overcooking.

Storing & Reheating:

Storing: Store leftover pork chops and potatoes in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals.
Freezing: You can freeze the cheesy potato bake in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Substitutions & Variations:

Potatoes: Substitute Yukon Gold with russet or red potatoes.
Herbs: Use rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a different flavor profile.
Lighter option: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk for fewer calories.
Add vegetables: Include thinly sliced onions or bell peppers in the potato bake for added flavor and nutrition.

Garlic Butter Pork Chops with Cheesy Potato Bake