This yummy smothered pork chop casserole features juicy pork chops baked with creamy sauce and irresistible toppings. It’s the kind of comfort food that warms your heart!
I love how easy it is to throw this together. Just layer everything in a dish, pop it in the oven, and relax while it cooks. Perfect for a cozy family dinner! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops add flavor and moisture. If you can’t find them, use boneless chops or even chicken breasts as a substitute; just reduce cooking time to avoid over-drying.
Mushrooms: I love using cremini mushrooms for their richness, but white button mushrooms work just fine. If you prefer a different flavor, try adding sliced shiitake or even a mix of your favorite mushrooms.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, half-and-half is a good option. If you’re dairy-free, consider using coconut cream or a non-dairy milk thickened with a bit of cornstarch.
Cheese: Mozzarella is gooey and delicious, but you could also use cheddar for a sharper taste. If looking for something different, try Gouda or Fontina—both melt beautifully!
How Do I Achieve a Perfectly Creamy Sauce?
Creating that luscious creamy sauce is all about the right balance of ingredients. Here’s how to master it:
- Start with sautéed onions and mushrooms to build flavor. Cooking them until tender is key.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetable mix and cook it briefly to avoid a raw taste. This gives thickness.
- Gradually add chicken broth while stirring for a smooth blend, helping avoid lumps.
- Incorporate heavy cream to enrich the sauce. Let it simmer down until creamy and thick.
This technique transforms simple ingredients into a comforting sauce that beautifully coats your pork chops!
Smothered Pork Chop Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Mushroom Sauce:
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (white button or cremini work well)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or a mild melting cheese like Monterey Jack)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 40-50 minutes of cooking time. You’ll spend time searing the pork and simmering the flavorful sauce before baking everything together to create a comforting, hearty meal that’s sure to please the whole family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and becomes golden brown on top.
2. Season and Sear the Pork Chops:
Generously season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the pork chops and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they develop a nice golden crust. After they’re browned, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Onions and Mushrooms:
In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and the chopped onions, cooking and stirring frequently until the onions become soft and translucent, which takes about 5 minutes. Next, add the sliced mushrooms and continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to release their moisture and get tender.
4. Add the Garlic and Make the Sauce:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until it’s fragrant. Next, sprinkle the flour over the mushroom and onion mixture, stirring well. Cook for about a minute to eliminate any raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly, and bring the mixture to a simmer. The sauce will begin to thicken nicely.
5. Finish the Sauce:
Stir in the heavy cream and dried thyme, allowing it to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and has thickened to your liking.
6. Combine and Bake:
Now, return the seared pork chops to the pan, nestling them into the luscious sauce and mushrooms. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top of the pork chops. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot, ideally with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up that amazing sauce. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Smothered Pork Chop Casserole!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used, but remember that they will cook faster than bone-in cuts. Check for doneness around 15-20 minutes of baking time, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking to lighten the dish, half-and-half is a perfect replacement. For a dairy-free option, you could use coconut cream or a non-dairy milk like almond milk, but you may want to add a thickening agent like cornstarch to maintain creaminess.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and sear the pork chops in advance. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just allow extra time for baking if it’s coming straight from the fridge!
