Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

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Ever find yourself craving something cozy, cheesy, and easy after a long day? This garlic parmesan pork chops with cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe checks every box. It’s one of those quick and tasty dinner ideas for family nights that feels like comfort food but comes together without much fuss.

With golden pork chops baked right on top of creamy, cheesy potatoes, it’s a one-dish wonder that’s perfect for chilly nights, Sunday dinners, or even a last-minute Mother’s Day meal. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or just want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen, this meal delivers big flavor with simple ingredients.

Let’s get started—your oven’s about to make magic.

What You’ll Need

Before you preheat the oven, let’s make sure you’ve got everything ready for this comforting garlic parmesan pork chops with cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe. This dish keeps it simple—no fancy tools or hard-to-find ingredients. Just classic flavors that come together in one cozy bake.

Here’s what to grab:

For the Pork Chops:

4 pork chops – Boneless or bone-in, just make sure they’re about 1 inch thick for juicy results.
4 garlic cloves, minced – Fresh garlic brings out the best flavor.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a rich, nutty layer to the crust.
1 teaspoon dried thyme – Optional, but it pairs well with both the pork and potatoes.
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil – For browning the chops before baking.

The Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:

4 cups thinly sliced potatoes – Yukon Gold or russet potatoes work best. Slice them evenly so they cook through at the same time.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar gives a bold cheesy bite.
1 cup heavy cream – For that velvety, creamy texture.
Salt and pepper, to taste

Tools You’ll Need:

Large oven-safe skillet or a 9×13-inch baking dish
Sharp knife or mandoline for slicing potatoes
Small bowl for mixing the cheese and cream
Foil (optional, if you want to cover the dish while baking)

This recipe is a go-to for quick and tasty dinner ideas for family nights, especially when you need a hearty meal that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients and one pan, you’re on your way to something seriously satisfying.

Detailed Cooking Instructions

Garlic parmesan pork chops with cheesy scalloped potatoes on a black plate

Ready to bring it all together? These step-by-step instructions will guide you through making garlic parmesan pork chops with cheesy scalloped potatoes—no guesswork, just a smooth path to a warm, cheesy dinner your family will love.

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready once everything is prepped.

2. Season the Pork Chops

In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated Parmesan, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Rub this mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops.

Tip: Patting the pork chops dry with a paper towel helps the seasoning stick better.

3. Sear the Pork Chops

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the pork chops and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, just until they get a golden crust. Remove from heat.

You’re not fully cooking them here—just locking in flavor.

4. Prep the Potatoes

While the pork chops are browning, thinly slice your potatoes (about ⅛ inch thick).
Layer them evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or the same skillet if it’s oven-safe.

5. Make the Cheesy Cream Mixture

In a bowl, stir together:

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup heavy cream
A pinch of salt and pepper

Pour this mixture evenly over the sliced potatoes, gently spreading it into the corners.

6. Assemble the Dish

Place the browned pork chops directly on top of the potato mixture.
They’ll soak up the flavors while helping the potatoes cook evenly.

7. Bake

Transfer the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until:

The potatoes are soft and creamy
The pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C)

If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover it with foil during the last 15 minutes.

8. Rest and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes. This helps the creamy sauce thicken slightly and makes serving easier.

Pair with a side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad to round out this quick and tasty dinner idea for family nights.

This is the kind of meal that turns chilly nights into cozy ones. And once you try it, don’t be surprised if it makes a regular appearance at Sunday dinners or holiday gatherings.

Tips & Tricks

Garlic parmesan pork chop with cheesy scalloped potatoes on a plate

Here are a few helpful tips to make sure your garlic parmesan pork chops with cheesy scalloped potatoes turn out perfect every time. Whether it’s your first try or a weeknight repeat, these small steps make a big difference.

For the Pork Chops:

Bone-in vs. boneless: Both work well. Bone-in chops may stay juicier but can take a few minutes longer to cook.
Even thickness matters: Use chops that are about 1 inch thick so they cook evenly with the potatoes.
Don’t skip the sear: Browning the pork chops first adds flavor and helps them stay juicy while baking.

Potatoes:

Thin and even slices: Use a mandoline if you have one. Thinner slices cook faster and more evenly.
Starch helps thicken: Don’t rinse the sliced potatoes—natural starch helps create that creamy texture.
Layer with care: Overlapping potatoes slightly (like shingles) helps them cook more evenly and soak up the cheesy cream.

Cheesy Sauce:

Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that don’t melt as smoothly.
Want extra cheesy? Sprinkle a little more cheddar or Parmesan on top before baking for a golden crust.

General Tips:

Let it rest: After baking, wait 5–10 minutes before serving. The sauce thickens and flavors settle.
Make it ahead: Assemble up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Meal idea: This recipe works great for Sunday dinners, chilly weeknights, or comfort food occasions like Mother’s Day or potlucks.

This dish is one of those quick and tasty dinner ideas for family nights that never goes out of style—simple ingredients, bold flavor, and minimal cleanup.

Looking for more easy, flavorful ideas to round out your weeknight meal plan or holiday menu? Here are some reader favorites that pair well with comfort food occasions and busy family nights:

Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Juicy chicken breasts filled with a rich mushroom and spinach cream—perfect for cozy dinners.
Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta – A Quick Easter Meal
Bright, buttery shrimp tossed with pasta—on the table in under 30 minutes.
Thai Coconut Curry Mussels – Easy, Creamy Seafood Recipe
Bold, creamy, and surprisingly simple—great for seafood lovers or Sunday meals.
Easy Mediterranean Quinoa Power Bowl for a Healthy Meal
Packed with veggies and protein—ideal for light dinners or healthy lunch prep.
Crave-Worthy Bunless BBQ Bacon Burgers for Mom
Low-carb, smoky, and satisfying—perfect for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, or any gathering.

These recipes pair beautifully with your go-to garlic parmesan pork chops with cheesy scalloped potatoes—because great meals are even better with a few favorites on standby.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in?

Yes, boneless pork chops work just fine in this recipe. Just make sure they’re at least 1 inch thick to avoid drying out. Keep an eye on cook time—boneless chops may cook a bit faster.

What kind of potatoes are best for scalloped potatoes?

Yukon Gold or russet potatoes are great choices. They hold their shape and become tender without turning mushy. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes for this recipe.

Do I have to sear the pork chops before baking?

Searing locks in moisture and adds flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip it. Just note that the chops may not be as golden or flavorful.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prep the full dish up to 24 hours in advance and keep it in the fridge. Bake just before serving. If baking from cold, add 5–10 minutes to the cook time.

How do I know when the pork is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the pork chops have reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Let them rest for a few minutes after baking.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Try layering in thin-sliced onions, mushrooms, or even spinach between the potato slices. For a complete meal, serve with steamed broccoli or a side salad.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

While the dish tastes best fresh, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot throughout.

Can I make this for a potluck or gathering?

Definitely. This is one of those quick and tasty dinner ideas for family nights that doubles as a crowd-pleasing comfort food—great for Sunday dinners, holiday meals, and potlucks.