Instructions:
Prepare the pork chops: Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel to remove any moisture. This will help them sear better. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Sear the pork chops: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
Make the garlic butter sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Coat the pork chops: Return the pork chops to the skillet and spoon the garlic butter over them. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over each chop. Lower the heat to medium and cover the skillet. Let the pork chops cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If the chops are thick, you can finish cooking them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Garnish and serve: Once cooked, sprinkle the pork chops with fresh parsley and serve immediately with the cheesy scalloped potatoes.
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Ingredients:
4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
2 tbsp butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter option)
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp dried thyme (or fresh thyme, chopped)
1/4 tsp paprika (for color and flavor)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the potatoes: Peel and slice the potatoes as thinly as possible—around 1/8-inch thick. You can use a mandoline slicer for uniform slices.
Make the creamy sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the cream and seasonings: Pour in the heavy cream (or milk), and stir in the salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Layer the potatoes: In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes. Pour half of the creamy sauce over the top. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce.
Add cheese: Sprinkle cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the potatoes.
Bake the scalloped potatoes: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
Finish and garnish: Once baked, let the scalloped potatoes rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color.
To Serve:
Serve the Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops alongside the creamy, cheesy Scalloped Potatoes for a flavor-packed, comforting meal.
You can also add a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete dinner!
Tips:
Make ahead: You can prepare the scalloped potatoes a day ahead and bake them just before serving. This will save you time on the day of your meal.
Cheese options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses in the scalloped potatoes, such as Gruyère, mozzarella, or a sharp white cheddar for even more depth of flavor.
For a crispy finish on the pork chops: If you want a little extra crispy crust on the pork chops, you can finish them off in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 5-10 minutes after searing them, especially if they are thick.
This Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes combo will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds! Enjoy the ultimate flavor explosion on a plate!
