Cheesy Pork Chop Casserole

 

Cheesy Pork Chop Casserole: A Comforting Delight

This indulgent dish is a celebration of savory satisfaction, featuring thick, succulent pork chops enveloped in a rich and gooey cheese-laden embrace. Each pork chop, tender and expertly seasoned, is seared to perfection before being nestled into a bed of creamy, cheesy goodness. The star of the show is undoubtedly the molten blanket of melted cheese, which blankets the pork chops, creating a decadent and comforting symphony of flavors.

As the casserole emerges from the oven, the irresistible aroma of bubbling cheese and perfectly cooked pork fills the air, creating an anticipation that heightens the dining experience. The cheese, a melty medley of gooey perfection, forms a golden crust on top, promising a delightful contrast of textures as you delve into this culinary masterpiece.

The pork chops, having absorbed the essence of the cheese and accompanying seasonings, are not only tender but also infused with a depth of flavor that extends beyond the surface. The cheese, in turn, adds a creamy and indulgent element, creating a harmonious marriage of meaty richness and dairy decadence in every heavenly bite.

As you take your first forkful, the pork chops yield effortlessly, revealing a succulence that is complemented by the cheesy symphony. The flavors mingle on the palate, creating a comforting and satisfying experience that transcends the ordinary. The Cheesy Pork Chop Casserole is a testament to the art of comfort food, a dish that invites you to savor the simple pleasures of a well-executed pairing of pork and cheese. It is a celebration of warmth, flavor, and indulgence, a culinary journey that lingers in the memory long after the last forkful has been enjoyed.

Ingredients

• 6 pork chops
• 8 sliced potatoes
• 1 sliced onion
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 7 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cups chicken stock
• 2 1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup chopped chives
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon granulated garlic

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Meanwhile, soak sliced potatoes in cold water. This removes excess starch and prevents browning. This step can be done a few hours ahead as well.
2. In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter and 4 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized. Sprinkle 2/3 cup of all-purpose flour over onions.
3. Pour in 3 cups of chicken stock and 2 cups of milk. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in cheese and chives until melted. Remove from heat.
4. Grease a casserole dish. Drain soaked potatoes. Layer half of the potatoes and follow with half of the cheese sauce. Repeat for the second layer.
5. Bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes.
6. Meanwhile, let’s brown the chops! Mix together 1 cup flour, granulated garlic, salt, and pepper. Dredge each pork chop in this mixture. In another skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of softened butter and 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and cook until they’re browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.
7. Place browned pork chops over potatoes in casserole.
8. Bake uncovered for 40 minutes or until the pork chops are cooked through and the casserole is bubbly and golden.
9. Optionally, garnish with additional chopped chives before serving.

Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this Cheesy Pork Chop Casserole is sure to impress. The tender pork chops combined with the creamy, cheesy sauce make for a satisfying and flavorful dish that everyone will love. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to delight your taste buds with this delicious casserole!