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.
I made this bowl for my family last Sunday and the aroma of seared pork mingling with creamy potatoes had everyone gathering in the kitchen even before dinner was ready. This recipe brings together classic comfort and a little touch of restaurant-inspired elegance.
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
- Make Cheddar Mashed Potatoes:
- Place potatoes in large pot. Cover with cold water and add 1 tsp salt. Bring to 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.
- Cook Pork Chops:
- While potatoes cook, heat olive oil and butter in 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 plate and tent with foil.
- Prepare Pan Gravy:
- Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to skillet drippings, 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.
- Cook 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 Bowl:
- Spoon cheddar mashed potatoes into bowls, top with a pork chop, drizzle with pan gravy, and serve green beans on the side.
Save My kids love piling their bowls high, especially when the mash is still steaming and the green beans add that fresh, snappy contrast. It is one of those dinners that gets everyone chatting and asking for seconds.
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
Per serving: 600 calories, 32 g total fat, 37 g carbohydrates, 41 g protein
Save This bowl is all about comfort and flexibility: switch up your veg, tweak your cheese, and enjoy a meal that makes everyone feel at home.
Common Questions
- → How do you achieve juicy pork chops?
Season pork chops well and sear over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side, ensuring an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for juicy, tender meat.
- → What type of potatoes are best for mashed potatoes?
Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for creamy mashed potatoes due to their buttery texture and smooth consistency when mashed.
- → How can I make the pan gravy gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour in the gravy to accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing texture.
- → Are the green beans steamed or sautéed?
Green beans can be either steamed or sautéed until crisp-tender, allowing them to retain a bright green color and fresh flavor.
- → Can I substitute cheddar cheese in the mashed potatoes?
Yes, sharp white cheddar is a great alternative that maintains the cheesy flavor and creamy texture of the mash.