An Engaging Introduction
Imagine a dish that brings the warmth of home and the richness of tradition right to your dining table. The Real Old-Fashioned Pork Chop Casserole is exactly that—a savory blend of tender pork, creamy sauce, and hearty potatoes. This recipe captures the essence of comfort food, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this dish promises both simplicity and satisfaction.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is a crowd-pleaser, combining easy preparation with delicious results. The casserole not only highlights tender pork chops but also allows for creative variations, making it adaptable to your family’s preferences. The melding flavors of onions, cream of chicken soup, and optional vegetables provide a well-rounded meal that can be customized with your choice of herbs and spices.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- Whisk
- 13×9 inch casserole dish
- Foil
- Oven
Ingredients
- 4-6 pork chops, your preference
- 6-8 medium-large potatoes
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 can (14 oz) chicken stock or 1-2 chicken bouillon cubes dissolved in 1 3/4 cups boiling water
- 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 tablespoons butter, plus extra for buttering the casserole dish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Any herb or spice to your preference (optional)
- Shredded cheese (optional)
- Vegetable add-ins such as mushrooms, green beans, corn (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- If using bouillon cubes, bring 1 3/4 cups of water to a boil, remove from heat, and dissolve the bouillon cubes.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper. Brown them well on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- While the chops are browning, peel, rinse, and dry your potatoes. Thinly slice them about 1/4 inch thick. Thinly slice the onion and set aside.
- Remove the chops from the pan and add the onions. Cook them in the drippings for 4-5 minutes until they are translucent and starting to caramelize. Remove from the pan.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the same pan, add the flour, and whisk to make a roux. Slowly add in the chicken stock, whisking until smooth. Bring to a boil and cook until thickened, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the cream of chicken soup, shredded cheese (if using), and cooked onions to the sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices to taste. Turn the heat down to low.
- Butter a 13×9 inch casserole dish. Arrange the potatoes in an overlapping pattern in the dish. Pour the sauce over the potatoes without mixing. Arrange the pork chops over the potatoes and cover with foil.
- Bake in a 350-degree oven for about 65-75 minutes, or for more tender chops, bake at 300 degrees for about 2-2 1/2 hours. When finished, remove the foil and let the dish sit for 10 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.
Tips for Success
- Uniformly slice the potatoes for even cooking.
- Browning the pork chops before baking enhances the flavor.
- Letting the dish sit after baking helps the sauce thicken for a richer texture.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Try adding other vegetables such as carrots or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique twist.
- Serve over egg noodles or rice for a complete meal.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This dish offers a balanced meal with protein from the pork chops, carbohydrates from the potatoes, and essential vitamins and minerals from the added vegetables. Adjust quantities and ingredients based on dietary needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use bone-in pork chops?
Yes, bone-in pork chops can be used, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
Is it possible to make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Simply layer the ingredients as directed and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Conclusion
This Real Old-Fashioned Pork Chop Casserole is a timeless recipe that continues to win hearts with its comforting flavors and easy preparation. It’s a dish that invites you to experiment and make it your own. Try it out, and don’t forget to share your experiences and any creative twists you’ve added. Enjoy this hearty, delicious meal with those you love!