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 first made this recipe for a weekend family gathering and everyone raved about the rich, cheesy potato mash paired with tender pork and bright green beans. It quickly became a requested favorite for busy weeknights as well as special occasions.
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 the 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.
- Cook the 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 and tent with foil.
- Make the 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 is the meal my kids request most when the weather cools down and we all crave something hearty and delicious around the dinner table.
Required Tools
Large pot, colander, potato masher or ricer, large skillet, whisk, tongs, and a steamer basket or sauté pan make preparation easy and efficient.
Allergen Information
Contains milk (cheese, butter, milk) and wheat (flour in gravy if not gluten-free), and may contain mustard. Always check product labels for possible allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 600 calories, 32 g total fat, 37 g carbohydrates, and 41 g protein for a balanced main course.
Save This bowl is a true comfort classic that will satisfy everyone at the table and bring a hearty touch to your weeknight menu or special occasion.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I ensure pork chops stay juicy when searing?
Season chops well and sear over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side until just cooked through. Avoid overcooking to maintain juiciness.
- → What type of potatoes work best for the mash?
Yukon Gold potatoes offer a creamy texture keeping the mash smooth yet fluffy when combined with butter and cheddar.
- → Can I make the pan gravy gluten-free?
Yes, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend for thickening the gravy without altering flavor.
- → How should the green beans be prepared for best texture?
Sauté or steam green beans until crisp-tender, about 5-7 minutes, to retain bright color and slight crunch.
- → What alternatives can be used for green beans?
Steamed broccoli or roasted carrots work well as flavorful vegetable sides complementing the dish.