Save Juicy seared pork chops served atop creamy cheddar mashed potatoes, finished with a savory pan gravy and crisp green beans for a comforting, satisfying meal.
The very first time I made these bowls for my family, everyone agreed it tasted like the best kind of homemade restaurant dinner you could ask for at home. The cheesy mashed potatoes and rich gravy made it a weeknight favorite we look forward to often.
Ingredients
- Pork Chops: 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick), 1 tsp kosher salt, ½ tsp black pepper, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp unsalted butter, 1 sprig fresh thyme (optional)
- Cheddar Mashed Potatoes: 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed, 1 tsp salt, 4 tbsp unsalted butter, ½ cup whole milk (more as needed), 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, ¼ tsp ground white pepper
- Pan Gravy: 2 tbsp pan drippings (from pork chops), 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (use gluten-free flour for GF option), 1½ cups low-sodium chicken broth, ½ tsp Dijon mustard, Salt & pepper, to taste
- Green Beans: 12 oz fresh green beans, trimmed, 1 tbsp olive oil, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Mashed Potatoes:
- Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add 1 tsp salt. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, 15–18 minutes. Drain, return to pot, and mash with butter, milk, cheddar, and white pepper until smooth and creamy. Keep warm.
- Sear Pork Chops:
- While potatoes cook, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season pork chops with salt and pepper. Sear chops 3–4 minutes per side until golden and just cooked through (145°F/63°C internal temp). Add thyme sprig for extra flavor if desired. Transfer chops to a plate; tent with foil.
- Make Pan Gravy:
- Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to skillet drippings, then stir in flour and cook 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and Dijon. Simmer, whisking constantly, until thickened, 3–5 minutes. Season to taste.
- Prepare Green Beans:
- While gravy simmers, toss green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Steam or sauté until bright green and crisp-tender, about 5–7 minutes.
- Assemble Bowls:
- Spoon cheddar mashed potatoes into bowls. Top with a pork chop, drizzle with pan gravy, and serve green beans on the side.
Save This bowl reminds me of Sunday dinners at my grandmother's house, where everyone rushed to the table as soon as the pork chops came out of the skillet. Passing the mashed potatoes around the table always sparked laughter and cozy family stories.
Required Tools
Large pot, colander, potato masher or ricer, large skillet, whisk, tongs, steamer basket or sauté pan
Allergen Information
Contains: Milk (cheese, butter, milk), Wheat (flour in gravy; use GF flour if needed). May contain: Mustard (in Dijon). Always check product labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 600, Total Fat: 32 g, Carbohydrates: 37 g, Protein: 41 g (per serving)
Save This hearty bowl offers delicious comfort and a homestyle balance in every spoonful. Enjoy it for a cozy night in or a cheerful family gathering.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I get a creamy texture for cheddar mashed potatoes?
Use Yukon Gold potatoes and mash with warm butter and milk. Shredded cheddar adds smoothness and flavor.
- → Can I use bone-in pork chops?
Yes, bone-in chops work well. Adjust cooking time as they may need a few extra minutes to cook through.
- → What’s the secret to flavorful pan gravy?
Pan drippings, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and butter are key. Whisk constantly for a silky, rich result.
- → Are there alternatives to green beans?
Broccoli, roasted carrots, or sautéed asparagus also pair nicely. Choose your favorite side vegetable.
- → How can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour in the gravy instead of regular flour to adapt this meal for gluten-free diets.
- → Which cheese works best for mashed potatoes?
Sharp cheddar delivers bold flavor, but sharp white cheddar or a blend can be substituted for variation.