Hearty Pork Chop Casserole Recipe for Cozy Family Dinners

Hearty casseroles have always sparked curiosity about pork chop comfort food that brings warmth to any dinner table.

My grandmother shared this delightful recipe during chilly winter evenings in minnesota.

Traditional cooking methods blend seamlessly with modern kitchen techniques in this simple dish.

Juicy meat nestled between creamy layers creates a mouthwatering experience you cannot resist.

Rustic ingredients come together effortlessly, promising a meal that satisfies deep hunger and creates lasting memories.

Unexpected spices and clever preparation make this casserole stand out from typical weeknight dinners.

Let’s uncover how this classic recipe can transform an ordinary meal into something extraordinary.

Helpful Notes for Pork Chop Casserole

• Sear for Maximum Flavor: Brown the pork chops quickly in a hot skillet to lock in juices and create a delicious golden crust that adds depth to the overall dish.
• Rice or Potato Swap: Easily customize the base by substituting rice with sliced potatoes or vice versa, depending on your preference or pantry availability.
• Cheese Enhancement: Experiment with different cheese varieties like mozzarella or pepper jack to add a unique twist and extra creaminess to the casserole.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the entire casserole in advance and refrigerate, allowing the flavors to meld together for an even more delicious meal when baked.
• Diet-Friendly Modifications: Use low-sodium soups and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter version, or opt for gluten-free cream soups to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Store Pork Chop Casserole and Reheat Easily

• Refrigerate: Transfer leftover casserole to an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, keeping the flavors sealed and fresh.
• Freeze: Wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months, preserving the delicious meal for later enjoyment.
• Reheat Refrigerated: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Add a splash of chicken broth to prevent dryness and maintain moisture.
• Reheat Frozen: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake in a preheated 350F (175C) oven for 20-25 minutes, covering with foil to prevent excessive browning and retain the casserole's creamy texture.

What Goes With Pork Chop Casserole

• Pair with Zesty White Wine: Complement the creamy, rich casserole with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These light, refreshing wines cut through the richness and balance the dish's creamy texture.
• Serve with Roasted Green Vegetables: Enhance the meal with roasted asparagus or broccoli. The charred, slightly bitter green vegetables provide a perfect contrast to the casserole's creamy and savory profile.
• Match with Tangy Apple Slaw: Create a bright side dish with a crunchy apple slaw dressed in a light vinaigrette. The fresh, acidic notes will lighten the hearty casserole and add a refreshing element to the plate.
• Recommend Craft Beer Pairing: Choose a crisp lager or a mild amber ale to complement the pork chop's richness. The beer's carbonation and subtle malt flavors will cleanse the palate between bites.

New Ways to Enjoy Pork Chop Casserole

• Spicy Southwestern Splash: Replace cream soups with salsa, add diced green chilies, and sprinkle pepper jack cheese for a zesty Mexican-inspired version.
• Mediterranean Herb Garden: Use Italian seasoning on pork chops, swap cream soups for white wine and herbs, add sliced zucchini and artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean feel.
• Creamy Mushroom Celebration: Incorporate sautéed fresh mushrooms, use wild rice instead of standard rice, and add a layer of caramelized onions for extra depth and richness.
• Lean Green Veggie Boost: Mix in roasted broccoli florets, use cauliflower rice as base, reduce cream soups, and top with crispy kale chips for a healthier alternative.

FAQs for Pork Chop Casserole Fans

• Why should I sear the pork chops before baking?

Searing locks in the juices and creates a delicious golden-brown crust, which helps keep the pork chops tender and flavorful during the long baking process.

• Can I use different types of cream soups?

Absolutely! You can substitute cream of mushroom or cream of chicken with cream of celery or use a combination of different cream soups to create a unique flavor profile.

• Is this recipe budget-friendly?

Yes! This casserole uses affordable ingredients like canned soups, rice or potatoes, and pork chops, making it an economical meal that feeds a family without breaking the bank.

• How do I know the pork chops are fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145F (63C), which ensures they are safe to eat and remain juicy.

Why You’ll Love Pork Chop Casserole

• Quick Comfort Cooking: Whip up a hearty, satisfying meal in under an hour with minimal prep work and simple ingredients that everyone loves.
• Flavor-Packed Technique: Searing pork chops before baking locks in juiciness and creates a golden-brown crust that adds incredible depth and richness to the dish.
• One-Pan Wonder: This casserole eliminates multiple dishes and complicated cooking steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekend dinners when you want maximum taste with minimal effort.
• Versatile Meal Magic: Easily customize with different proteins, swap rice for potatoes, or add your favorite vegetables to create a unique family-friendly dinner that adapts to your preferences and pantry contents.

What You’ll Need for Pork Chop Casserole

• Pork Chops: Tender meat that provides the main protein for the casserole, best when fresh and boneless for even cooking.
• Chicken Broth: Adds rich flavor and helps create moisture in the dish, low-sodium options work well.

• Cream of Mushroom Soup, Cream of Chicken Soup: Create a rich, smooth base that helps tenderize the meat and add depth of flavor, canned versions work perfectly.
• Milk: Helps thin the soup mixture and creates a creamy texture, whole milk provides the best consistency.

• Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder: Classic seasonings that boost the overall taste of the pork chops, freshly ground black pepper is recommended.
• Uncooked Rice or Sliced Potatoes: Serves as the hearty base of the casserole, absorbing the creamy sauce and providing substance.
• Chopped Onion: Adds subtle sweetness and aromatic flavor to the dish.
• Olive Oil: Used for searing the pork chops to create a golden brown exterior.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Optional): Provides a melty, tangy topping that adds extra richness.
• Fresh Parsley (Optional): Adds a fresh garnish and bright color to the finished dish.

How to Make Pork Chop Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 375F (190C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spray of cooking oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Spice And Sear Pork Chops

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear those chops until they’re sporting a gorgeous golden-brown exterior, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer them to a temporary plate.

Step 3: Craft The Creamy Base

• Cream of mushroom soup
• Cream of chicken soup
• Chicken broth
• Whole milk
• Diced onions

Whisk until smooth and velvety. Spread uncooked rice or sliced potatoes across the bottom of your baking dish. Pour the soup mixture evenly, making sure every grain and potato slice gets a flavor bath.

Step 4: Layer The Deliciousness

Nestle those beautifully seared pork chops on top of the rice or potato layer. For extra indulgence, sprinkle a generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese across the surface.

Step 5: Bake To Perfection

Shield the dish with aluminum foil and slide it into the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes. Then, unveil the foil and continue baking for 15-20 more minutes. You’re looking for tender potatoes/rice and pork chops reaching an internal temperature of 145F (63C).

Step 6: Serve And Savor

Let the casserole rest for a quick 5 minutes to settle its flavors. If you’re feeling fancy, shower some fresh parsley on top. Dig in and enjoy your comforting, home-style feast!

Pork Chop Casserole Recipe

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4.6 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty Midwestern Classic Pork Chop Casserole brings comfort and warmth to family dinner tables with its creamy layers of tender meat and golden potato goodness. Savory simplicity meets home-cooked satisfaction, promising delicious memories for hungry diners seeking classic comfort.

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Ingredients

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Proteins:

• 6 bone-in or boneless pork chops

Seasonings and Oils:

• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Casserole Base and Additional Ingredients:

• 1 cup (200 g / 7 ounces) uncooked long-grain white rice (or 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes)
• 1 (10.5 oz / 300 g) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 (10.5 oz / 300 g) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 ¾ cups (420 ml) chicken broth
• ½ cup (120 ml) milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup (120 g / 4.2 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Garnish (optional):

• Fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Prepare your culinary workspace by warming the oven to a toasty 375F (190C). Grease a generously sized rectangular baking vessel to prevent unwanted sticking.
2. Lavish the pork chops with a robust seasoning blend of salt, cracked pepper, and aromatic garlic powder. Create a golden crust by sizzling the meat in a heated skillet with olive oil, developing a rich caramel exterior for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side.
3. Craft a creamy foundation by whisking together mushroom and chicken soup concentrates, fragrant chicken broth, and silky milk. Fold in finely diced onions to enhance the flavor profile. Distribute uncooked rice or thinly sliced potatoes across the baking dish’s bottom, then cascade the luscious soup mixture evenly over the base.
4. Nestle the expertly seared pork chops atop the prepared layer. Crown the creation with a generous sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese for an indulgent finish.
5. Shield the casserole with aluminum foil, allowing it to transform in the heated oven for 45 minutes. Unveil the dish, continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the starches turn tender and the meat reaches a perfect internal temperature of 145F.
6. Allow the casserole to rest and settle for a brief moment. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a vibrant touch of color and freshness before serving.

Notes

• Customize the protein by swapping pork chops with chicken breasts or plant-based alternatives for vegetarian diets, ensuring consistent cooking times and seasoning adjustments.
• Select bone-in pork chops for enhanced flavor and moisture, which helps prevent drying out during the longer baking process.
• Use low-sodium soups and broths to control salt content, allowing individuals with dietary restrictions to enjoy the meal without compromising taste.
• Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the seasoning stage to elevate the casserole’s aromatic profile and introduce more complex flavor layers.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 460
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg