This hearty Smothered Pork Chop Casserole is a real crowd-pleaser. With juicy pork chops, creamy sauce, and layers of deliciousness, it feels like a warm hug on a plate!
Trust me, the best part is digging into the tender pork and creamy goodness. I love serving it with some simple veggies on the side for a complete meal—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for this recipe because they stay juicy during cooking. If you can only find boneless, use those, but adjust cooking time. You can also use pork loin or shoulder if you prefer.
Mushrooms: Button or cremini mushrooms add a nice earthy flavor. If you’re not a mushroom fan, feel free to swap them out for diced zucchini or spinach for a different twist.
Cherry Tomatoes: I love using cherry tomatoes since they add sweetness. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes work well too; just drain some juice before adding.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, I often use half-and-half. If you want to cut calories further, whole milk can be a good substitute, but the sauce may be less rich.
How Do I Get Perfectly Sautéed Onions and Mushrooms?
Sautéing onions and mushrooms properly will enhance the flavor of your casserole. Start with a medium-high heat to get a good sear on the ingredients. Here’s how:
- Heat your skillet and add olive oil before adding the onions. A hot pan will help them brown nicely.
- Cook the onions until they’re golden and translucent, which takes about 3 minutes. Stir occasionally so they don’t burn.
- Add mushrooms next; they’ll release moisture and need a few more minutes to cook down and brown. This boosts their flavor.
- Make sure to stir in the garlic and thyme at the end to prevent burning, which can cause a bitter taste.
Smothered Pork Chop Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to bake, making a total of about 45 minutes to enjoy this comforting meal with your family! It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready when you need it.
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Generously sprinkle salt and black pepper on both sides of each pork chop to enhance the flavor.
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the pork chops. Sear them until they are golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. After they are browned, remove the chops and set them aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Onion:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté it until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
5. Add Mushrooms:
Now, add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, until they are softened and browned.
6. Mix in Garlic and Thyme:
Stir in the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
7. Thicken the Sauce:
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat everything. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
8. Add Chicken Broth:
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it thicken, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
9. Creamy Tomato Mixture:
Stir in the heavy cream and cherry tomatoes, and allow it to simmer for another 2 minutes until the sauce is creamy and slightly thickened. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning if needed!
10. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer your mushroom and tomato sauce to a casserole dish. Lay the seared pork chops on top of the sauce.
11. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the pork chops, ensuring an even layer.
12. Bake the Casserole:
Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbly and golden, and the pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
13. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs before serving hot. This casserole pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or green beans!
Enjoy this deliciously creamy, cheesy, and comforting Smothered Pork Chop Casserole!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used as a substitute! Just keep in mind that they may cook a bit faster, so monitor the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
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 oven or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just sauté them briefly with the mushrooms before adding to the casserole for a delicious twist.
