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

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

There’s something undeniably satisfying about baked pork chops—tender, juicy, and full of flavor, resting atop a bed of creamy, cheesy potatoes. This dish is the perfect comfort food, offering a delightful balance of crispy, golden-brown chops and rich, flavorful potatoes. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

With a few simple ingredients and an easy step-by-step method, you can create a meal that feels gourmet without the hassle. Read on to discover why this baked pork chop recipe is a favorite, and how you can make it perfectly every time!

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Ingredients – What You’ll Need & Why

For the Pork Chops

6 bone-in pork chops – Bone-in chops retain more moisture and flavor, ensuring juicy, tender meat.

1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the natural flavors and helps tenderize the meat.

½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a hint of spice and depth.

1 teaspoon garlic powder – Infuses the pork with a subtle, savory aroma.

1 teaspoon onion powder – Complements the garlic and adds mild sweetness.

1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Gives a beautiful color and a slightly smoky depth.

2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps achieve a golden-brown sear while keeping the chops moist.

For the Creamy Potato Base

4 large potatoes, thinly sliced – Creates a rich, soft base that absorbs all the flavors.

1 cup heavy cream – Adds luxurious creaminess.

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Provides a gooey, melty texture.

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Boosts umami flavor and adds a slight crispness.

1 teaspoon dried thyme – Enhances the overall taste with a warm, earthy touch.

½ teaspoon ground mustard – Adds a subtle tanginess to balance the richness.

2 cloves garlic, minced – Elevates the overall depth of flavor.

1 tablespoon butter – Adds a final touch of richness to the dish.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

2. Season & Sear the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel. In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Rub the seasoning blend evenly over both sides of each chop.

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Assemble the Potato Base

Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine heavy cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, thyme, ground mustard, and minced garlic. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the mixture is smooth.

Pour the creamy mixture over the potatoes, ensuring even coverage.

4. Add the Pork Chops & Bake

Place the seared pork chops on top of the potato mixture. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the pork is fully cooked (internal temperature of 145°F (63°C)) and the potatoes are tender.

5. Serve & Enjoy!

Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra pop of color and freshness.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Convenience – Everything bakes together for a stress-free meal.

Juicy & Flavorful Pork Chops – A perfectly seasoned crust with tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat.

Creamy, Cheesy Potatoes – The ultimate comfort food base that’s rich and satisfying.

Easy to Customize – Swap cheeses, add mushrooms, or use sweet potatoes for a twist.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Pork Chops

Choose Thick-Cut Pork Chops – They stay juicy and tender, preventing overcooking.

Sear First for Maximum Flavor – This locks in juices and enhances the texture.

Use a Meat Thermometer – Ensuring the pork reaches 145°F (63°C) guarantees perfect doneness.

Let it Rest – Resting allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat succulent.

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Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with:

Steamed Green Beans – A fresh, light contrast to the creamy potatoes.

Garlic Butter Asparagus – Adds a bright, garlicky crunch.

Simple Garden Salad – A crisp side balances the richness.

Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up the extra creamy sauce.

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Final Thoughts – A Foolproof, Crowd-Pleasing Dinner

If you’re looking for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s both easy to make and absolutely delicious, this baked pork chops and creamy potatoes recipe is your go-to. It’s perfectly seasoned, incredibly creamy, and packed with flavor, making it an irresistible family favorite.

Try this ultimate comfort food today and experience why it’s one of the best pork chop recipes out there. Don’t forget to share your results and leave a c

omment below!

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