– **Pork Chops** – 6 boneless or bone-in, about 1-inch thick
– **Potatoes** – 4 large potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch rounds
– **Onion** – 1 large, sliced into rings (optional)
– **Garlic** – 3 cloves, minced
– **Chicken Broth** – 1 cup
– **Cream (optional)** – 1 cup, for a creamy sauce
– **Olive Oil** – 2 tablespoons
– **Butter** – 2 tablespoons
– **Salt** – to taste
– **Black Pepper** – to taste
– **Thyme or Rosemary** – 1 teaspoon, dried or fresh
– **Paprika** – 1 teaspoon (optional, for extra flavor)
Optional Additions
– Cheese – 1 cup, shredded (for a cheesy topping)
– Carrots or Bell Peppers – 1-2, sliced (adds vegetables to the dish)
– Mushrooms – 1 cup, sliced (adds earthy flavor)
Tips for Success
1. **Sear the Pork Chops First**: For a golden crust, sear the pork chops in a hot skillet with olive oil before baking. This locks in juices and adds flavor.
2. **Evenly Slice the Potatoes**: Make sure your potato slices are even to ensure they cook uniformly. Thin slices (¼-inch) are best for quicker cooking.
3. **Use Broth for Flavor**: Pouring chicken broth or vegetable broth over the potatoes helps keep them moist and adds a depth of flavor.
4. **Cover with Foil**: If baking with a sauce, cover the dish with foil for the first half of the baking process to allow the potatoes to steam, making them tender.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Sear the Pork Chops (Optional)
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Layer the Potatoes and Onions
In the prepared baking dish, layer the sliced potatoes evenly. If using onions, spread them on top of the potatoes. Sprinkle with garlic, salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or rosemary.
4. Add the Pork Chops and Liquid
Place the seared pork chops on top of the potato layer. Pour the chicken broth (or cream for a creamy version) evenly over the dish.
5. Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the pork chops are fully cooked and the potatoes are tender. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a melted, cheesy finish.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Let the pork chop and potato bake rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Description of Pork Chop and Potato Bake
This dish is the epitome of comfort food, combining succulent, seasoned pork chops with tender, perfectly cooked potatoes. Each bite offers a mix of savory meat and creamy or crispy potatoes, depending on your preferences. With the optional addition of cheese, this dish can be taken to the next level, making it even richer and more indulgent.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming the recipe serves 6):
– **Calories**: 450
– **Protein**: 30g
– **Carbohydrates**: 35g
– **Fat**: 20g
– **Fiber**: 4g
– **Sodium**: 600mg
Conclusion
Pork chop and potato bake is a tried-and-true comfort dish that brings together the heartiness of potatoes with the tender, juicy flavor of pork. Its simplicity makes it an excellent option for weeknight dinners, while its flavor and versatility ensure that everyone at the table will be satisfied.
Recommendation
Serve this pork chop and potato bake with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal. The dish is also perfect for meal prepping since it reheats well and tastes even better the next day.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Though this dish leans into indulgent flavors, you can easily make it more healthful by opting for lean cuts of pork, reducing the amount of added butter or cream, and incorporating more vegetables into the dish. Whether you enjoy it as-is or with health-conscious tweaks, this pork chop and potato bake is a delightful way to satisfy your cravings and feed your family.
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