Baked Pork Chops with Potatoes: A Hearty Family Favorite

Cooking a delicious and wholesome meal doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, the simplest ingredients can come together to create a dish that will have your family asking for seconds—or even thirds! This recipe for baked pork chops with potatoes is a perfect example of a meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just getting started in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the reasons this dish is so popular is that it combines tender pork chops with creamy, baked potatoes, creating a flavorful and hearty meal. The natural juices from the pork infuse the potatoes, giving them a rich, savory flavor. Plus, it all comes together in one dish, making cleanup a breeze!

Pork chops are a fantastic choice for a family dinner. They’re high in protein, easy to cook, and budget-friendly. Paired with potatoes, this meal becomes a comforting classic that can be dressed up with a variety of seasonings or kept simple for a more traditional flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this baked pork chop and potato dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 to 6 bone-in or boneless pork chops
• 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup chicken broth or water
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Fresh parsley for garnish

These ingredients are likely already in your pantry, making this dish even more convenient to prepare. You can also adapt the recipe based on what you have on hand—substitute sweet potatoes for a healthier twist or add other vegetables like carrots and parsnips for extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Begin by peeling and slicing the potatoes into ¼-inch thick rounds. Season the pork chops generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Set aside.

2. Assemble the Dish:
   Grease a large baking dish with olive oil. Layer the potato slices on the bottom of the dish, then sprinkle them with a pinch of salt and pepper. For extra flavor, you can also add a layer of sliced onions and minced garlic on top of the potatoes.

3. Add the Pork Chops:
   Place the seasoned pork chops on top of the potato layer. If desired, drizzle a bit of olive oil over the chops for a nice golden finish.

4. Add Liquid and Bake:
   Pour the chicken broth (or water) into the dish to keep the meat and potatoes moist as they cook. Dot the top of the pork chops with small pieces of butter, which will melt and enhance the flavor. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the pork chops are tender and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 145°F or 63°C).

5. Uncover and Brown:
   Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the pork chops to brown on top. This step gives the dish a lovely caramelized finish.

6. Serve:
   Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Variations and Tips

• Add Vegetables: You can add more vegetables to the dish, such as carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. This not only increases the nutritional value but also adds vibrant color and texture to the meal.

• Spice it Up: If you prefer a bit of heat, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes over the pork chops before baking.

• Saucy Addition: For those who enjoy a bit more sauce, you can prepare a simple gravy using the pan drippings. Just whisk together a tablespoon of flour with the leftover juices from the dish and heat over medium heat until thickened.

Why This Recipe Works

• One-Dish Meal: The convenience of having both the meat and side dish cook together is a huge time saver. Plus, it ensures that the potatoes absorb the savory juices from the pork chops, creating a more cohesive and flavorful meal.

• Budget-Friendly: Pork chops are often more affordable than beef or lamb, making this dish an economical choice for feeding a family.

• Comforting Flavors: The combination of tender, seasoned pork and soft, buttery potatoes is the epitome of comfort food. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or even special occasions.

Nutrition Information

This meal is packed with protein and carbs, making it ideal for a family dinner that will keep everyone satisfied. Each serving contains approximately:

• Calories: 400-450
• Protein: 30-35g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
• Fat: 18-22g
• Fiber: 3-4g

By including lean cuts of pork and using olive oil, you can keep the fat content in check while still enjoying a hearty, delicious meal.

Serve With

To complete this meal, you can serve the pork chops and potatoes with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette would provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.

If you’re serving this meal for a special occasion, consider pairing it with a glass of white wine or a light red. Chardonnay or Pinot Noir would complement the flavors of the pork and potatoes nicely.

Conclusion

This baked pork chops and potatoes recipe is not only easy to make but also a guaranteed hit at the dinner table. The ingredients are simple, the steps are straightforward, and the result is a meal that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish will leave everyone satisfied.

Be sure to try this recipe and enjoy the delicious combination of tender pork chops and creamy potatoes. Your family will be sure to ask for seconds!