Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

 

A comforting, oven-baked dinner the whole family will love

Introduction

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is the kind of classic comfort meal that feels both hearty and a little indulgent. Juicy, oven-baked pork chops coated in garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese are paired with rich, creamy scalloped potatoes layered with melted cheese.

This is a perfect recipe for Sunday dinners, family gatherings, or any night when you want a satisfying homemade meal that looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to prepare. Everything bakes together beautifully, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas.

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

For the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• 4 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ cups heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, but recommended)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish or casserole dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Scalloped Potatoes

1. Wash, peel (optional), and thinly slice the potatoes. Try to keep the slices even so they cook uniformly.
2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Stir and heat gently — do not boil.
5. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish.
6. Sprinkle with half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
7. Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes.
8. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, cheese, and cream mixture.

Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Season the Pork Chops

While the potatoes are baking:

1. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels.
2. Rub both sides with olive oil.
3. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
4. Press minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese evenly onto both sides of each pork chop.

Step 4: Add Pork Chops to the Dish

After the potatoes have baked for 30 minutes, remove the foil.

Nestle the seasoned pork chops on top of the potatoes. Sprinkle any remaining Parmesan over the top.

Step 5: Bake Until Perfect

Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until:

• Pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C)
• Potatoes are fork-tender
• Cheese is melted and lightly golden on top

If needed, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for a crispier Parmesan crust.

Serving Suggestions

Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serve with:

• Steamed green beans or broccoli
• A fresh garden salad
• Warm dinner rolls or crusty bread

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and freshness.

Storage and Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Avoid microwaving pork chops for too long to keep them juicy.

Tips for Best Results

• Use bone-in pork chops for extra flavor and moisture.
• Slice potatoes thinly so they cook evenly.
• Let pork chops rest after baking to lock in juices.
• Freshly grated Parmesan melts and tastes better than pre-packaged.

Why This Recipe Works

• One dish, minimal cleanup
• Creamy, cheesy potatoes balance savory pork perfectly
• Family-friendly and filling
• Great for both weeknights and special dinners

Final Thoughts

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table. Rich, comforting, and full of flavor, it’s a timeless dinner recipe you’ll come back to again and again.