Get ready for a tasty dinner with these juicy garlic butter pork chops! They’re coated in rich butter and garlic, making each bite full of flavor. Plus, they pair perfectly with a cheesy potato bake.
I can’t help but smile when I think about this meal—pork chops and cheesy potatoes are like a warm hug on a plate! 🥰 It’s easy to whip up and always a crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are great because they cook evenly. If you prefer, you can use bone-in chops for added flavor. Just increase cooking time slightly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for a punch of flavor. If you don’t have any, you can use garlic powder in a pinch! Use about 1/4 teaspoon of powder for each clove.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a nice sharpness. You can swap it for mozzarella for a milder taste or a cheese blend for more complexity. Vegan cheese is a good choice if you’re avoiding dairy.
Heavy Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter option, use whole milk or half-and-half. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut milk or cashew cream!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
Getting pork chops just right can be tricky, but here’s a straightforward method to keep them juicy and flavorful.
- First, season your pork chops well with salt and pepper—don’t skimp!
- Heat the skillet well before adding the chops; this gives them a nice sear.
- Sear for 4-5 minutes per side, but avoid flipping too often to allow a nice crust to form.
- Use a meat thermometer if you can—aim for an internal temp of 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked chops.
Rest the chops for a few minutes off the heat before serving. This lets the juices redistribute! Trust me, it’s worth the wait! 🕒
Easy Garlic Butter Pork Chops with Cheesy Potato Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or stock
For The Cheesy Potato Bake:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend of your choice)
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 1 hour and 5 minutes to cook, including baking time for the potato bake. Just think of it as a leisurely dinner that results in a comforting, home-cooked meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cheesy Potato Bake:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take a large bowl and mix the sliced potatoes with melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until they are well coated. Next, lay half of the potato slices evenly in a greased baking dish, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over them. Layer the remaining potato slices on top and pour the heavy cream evenly over everything. Finish by sprinkling the rest of the cheese on top. Cover it with foil and pop it in the oven for 40 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly!
2. Cook the Pork Chops:
While your potatoes bake, season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. Lower the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and sliced onions, sautéing until fragrant and softened (around 2-3 minutes). Pour in the fresh thyme and chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pan and scrape up the delicious bits stuck to the bottom. Let this simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Finally, return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning the garlic butter sauce over them, and heat for another 2 minutes to warm through and infuse the flavors.
3. Serve:
Now it’s time to enjoy your meal! Plate the pork chops and generously pour the garlic butter sauce on top. Serve them hot alongside the cheesy potato bake for a delightful dinner. You can also garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a touch of color.
Enjoy this comforting meal full of rich, buttery garlic flavors and creamy, cheesy potatoes!
FAQ About Easy Garlic Butter Pork Chops with Cheesy Potato Bake
Can I Use Bone-in Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops will add extra flavor to the dish. Just remember they may require a slightly longer cooking time—about 5-7 minutes more, so check for doneness with a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I Make the Cheesy Potato Bake Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the potato bake a day in advance! Just layer everything in the baking dish, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, whole milk or half-and-half can work instead of heavy cream. For a dairy-free choice, consider using coconut milk or an unsweetened cashew cream.
How Do I 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 stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to the cheesy potato bake to keep it creamy.
