This cozy Pork Chop Casserole is a one-pan wonder! Tender pork chops sit on a bed of creamy mushrooms and fluffy rice, making a meal that’s both simple and comforting.
You can’t beat the ease of this dish! Just layer everything in a baking dish, pop it in the oven, and let it work its magic. Perfect for busy weeknights when you still want something tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops offer more flavor and moisture. If you prefer boneless chops or even chicken breasts, those work too! Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Mushrooms: Use button mushrooms for a mild taste, but feel free to swap in cremini or shiitake mushrooms for extra flavor. If mushrooms aren’t your thing, try diced zucchini or bell peppers.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream if you’re dairy-free. Greek yogurt can also add creaminess, but stir it in after cooking to avoid curdling.
Rice: If you don’t have white rice, consider substituting with quinoa or farro for a nutty flavor. Or simply enjoy the casserole as is without a grain base!
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pork chops can be tricky, but here’s how to keep them juicy! Start by searing the chops to develop a nice crust. This locks in moisture. After that, the oven does the work. Follow these steps:
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan while searing.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature has reached 145°F (63°C).
- Let the chops rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices, keeping them tender.
With these tips, your pork chops will be delicious every time!
Pork Chop Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup cooked white rice (optional, if you want to add rice base)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Time Estimate:
This Pork Chop Casserole will take about 15 minutes for prep and another 25 minutes to cook in the oven, for a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for the casserole.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. This helps enhance the flavor!
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large oven-safe skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the pork chops. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until they’re golden brown. After that, remove the chops from the pan and set them aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
Lower the heat to medium and in the same pan, add the chopped onions. Sauté them for about 3 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Add in the sliced mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and minced garlic, cooking for another 5 minutes. You want the mushrooms to be tender and for the tomatoes to start bursting.
5. Add Seasonings and Liquid:
Stir in the dried thyme and rosemary, mixing well. Then, pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard. Give everything a good stir and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Prepare the Casserole:
If you’re using cooked rice, spread it out evenly at the bottom of a baking dish. Pour the delicious mushroom sauce over the rice to create a nice base.
7. Add the Pork Chops:
Place the seared pork chops on top of the sauce in the skillet or in the baking dish, making sure they are nestled in nicely.
8. Bake the Casserole:
Now, transfer your skillet or baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until the pork chops are cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), and the sauce is bubbling.
9. Let It Rest:
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes to keep everything juicy. During this time, the flavors will continue to meld!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and added freshness. Enjoy your hearty, flavorful pork chop casserole!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be substituted, but be mindful that they may cook faster. Check the internal temperature a few minutes earlier to avoid drying them out.
What Should I Serve With the Casserole?
This casserole is delicious on its own due to the rice base, but you can pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate for a day. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated all the way through.