Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
If you’re craving a dinner that’s hearty, indulgent, and bursting with flavor, this recipe is your new favorite comfort classic.
Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops are pan-seared to golden perfection, locking in all those savory juices, then finished in the oven for a tender, juicy bite. Pair that with rich, creamy scalloped potatoes layered with cheddar, mozzarella, and garlic-infused cream — and you’ve got a flavor explosion on a plate!
This meal feels like something straight out of a cozy bistro — but it’s easy enough to make at home any night of the week.
Ingredients
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:
- 4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional, but adds amazing aroma)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a large baking dish (9×13-inch works perfectly) for your scalloped potatoes.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
- Make the creamy sauce:
In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir occasionally until the cream is warm and fragrant (about 3–4 minutes).
Do not boil — just gently heat to infuse the flavor. - Layer the potatoes:
Arrange half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes, then sprinkle half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. - Repeat the layers:
Add the remaining potatoes, then top with the rest of the cream and cheeses. - Bake:
Cover with foil and bake for 35–40 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. - Pro tip: For an extra crispy top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end!
Step 3: Prepare the Pork Chops
While the potatoes bake, start the pork chops.
- Season the pork chops:
In a small bowl, mix Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels, then rub both sides with olive oil and the Parmesan seasoning mixture. - Sear the pork chops:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the pork chops and sear for about 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown. - Add garlic:
Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 30 seconds, spooning the garlic and oil over the pork chops to coat them in flavor. - Finish in the oven:
Transfer the skillet to the oven (if it’s oven-safe) or move the pork chops to a baking dish.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). - Rest:
Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep them juicy.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Serve the Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops hot from the oven, topped with the golden garlic bits and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Spoon out a generous portion of the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes on the side — creamy, garlicky, and loaded with gooey cheese.
For extra flair, drizzle a little olive oil or sprinkle a pinch of fresh thyme over the top before serving.
Tips for Success
- Choose the right potatoes: Russets or Yukon Golds are best — they hold their shape and absorb flavor beautifully.
- Don’t overcook the pork: Once it hits 145°F, remove it from the oven to keep it tender and juicy.
- Add depth: A splash of white wine or chicken broth in the potato cream sauce adds extra richness.
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the potatoes earlier in the day and refrigerate before baking.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3–4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual servings.
- Freeze: You can freeze portions of scalloped potatoes for up to 2 months (wrap tightly). Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is pure comfort food magic — perfectly seared, juicy pork paired with rich, creamy potatoes that practically melt in your mouth.
It’s a dish that feels fancy enough for guests but easy enough for a weeknight dinner. The flavors — buttery garlic, nutty Parmesan, and melty cheese — come together in the most delicious, soul-warming way.
Serve it with a side of roasted green beans or a crisp salad, and you’ve got a complete meal that everyone will rave about.
