Real Old-fashioned Pork Chop Casserole

There’s something heartwarming about a dish that reminds you of simpler times—a recipe that takes you back to family gatherings and comforting dinners. Real Old-fashioned Pork Chop Casserole is precisely that kind of dish. It combines tender pork chops with a creamy, savory rice and vegetable mix, topped with crispy onions and melted cheese. If you’re looking for the perfect blend of nostalgia and flavor, this casserole is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings together wholesome ingredients and rich flavors. You’ll love it for its:

• Comforting taste: The creamy mushroom soup and cheese create a deliciously rich sauce that envelops every bite.
• Easy preparation: With minimal steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatility: You can easily adapt it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl
• 9×9 baking pan
• Skillet
• Foil
• Spatula

Ingredients

• 4 boneless pork chops
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup French fried onions
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• Pinch of salt
• My house seasoning mix (equal parts garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, thawed peas and carrots, 1/4 cup of the fried onions, 1/4 cup of the cheese, and a pinch of salt.
3. Pour the mixture into a well-greased 9×9 baking pan, spreading it evenly.
4. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Season the pork chops with the house seasoning mix.
6. Fry each pork chop for 1-2 minutes on each side until slightly browned.
7. Place the browned pork chops on top of the rice mixture in the baking pan.
8. Cover the pan with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
9. Remove the foil, top with the remaining cheese and fried onions, then return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and onions are lightly browned.

Tips for Success

• Don’t skip browning the pork chops: This adds flavor and a nice texture to the meat.
• Let the dish rest: Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking before serving; this will help it set and enhance the flavors.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the rice mixture.
• Swap out cheddar cheese for mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Experiment with other vegetables like broccoli or mushrooms for added texture and taste.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While nutritional values can vary, this casserole offers a balanced meal with protein from pork chops, carbohydrates from rice, and essential vitamins from the vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use bone-in pork chops?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

I hope you’re as excited to try this Real Old-fashioned Pork Chop Casserole as I am to share it with you. It’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists you make to the recipe in the comments below. Enjoy!