Delicious Southern Pork Chop Casserole Recipe
Y’all, let me tell you about a recipe that’ll make your taste buds sing with delight – Southern Pork Chop Casserole. This dish is the epitome of comfort food and a staple in the South. It’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make, which makes it a great addition to your recipe collection.
The casserole includes tender pork chops, perfectly cooked white rice, all topped with a rich tomato gravy. It’s a complete meal that’ll leave you feeling satisfied and happy. The smell alone is enough to make anyone’s mouth water!
I’m thrilled to share this recipe with y’all because it’s one I grew up eating on Sunday afternoons with my family. It’s an authentic southern dish that has been passed down from generation to generation. Every time I make it, memories of my childhood come flooding back – sitting around the table with my loved ones sharing stories and laughter.
But enough reminiscing, let’s get down to business – cooking! I promise you won’t regret making this dish; in fact, it may become a family favorite for years to come. So go ahead and gather your ingredients because we’re about to make some southern magic happen in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you in the mood for some good old-fashioned comfort food? Look no further than this Southern Pork Chop Casserole recipe! Not only is it a beloved classic, but it’s also perfect for any meal of the day. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will become one of your family favorites!
One of the reasons why I love this recipe is because of the juicy, savory pork chops that are cooked to perfection thanks to our brining process. The brining process helps to lock in moisture and infuse the meat with flavor. You’ll never have dry and flavorless meat again! Plus, the smokey aroma will fill your kitchen, creating an irresistible desire.
As if that’s not enough, this recipe also includes delicious white rice mixed with tomato gravy and smothered pork chops. The mix between these elements creates an explosion of flavors that has made Southern cuisine so popular throughout the world.
Another great thing about this casserole is how easy and affordable it is to put together. With simple ingredients like vegetable oil, garlic powder, black pepper, onions and brown sugar, you can create a hearty meal in no time without busting your budget.
And if you’re worried about leftovers going to waste, fret not! This casserole reheats perfectly and can be stored for days in an airtight container. It’s ideal for busy weeknights where we want quick dinner fix without compromising the taste.
Overall, whether you’re a seasoned Southern cook or just looking to expand your tastes into soul food, this Southern Pork Chop Casserole is sure to please everyone at your table. So go ahead and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!”
Ingredient List
As a chef specializing in Southern-style cuisines, I take pride in paying attention to each ingredient I use. This is an essential part of creating mouth-watering, flavorful dishes. Here is the detailed list of ingredients you will need to make this Southern Pork Chop Casserole Recipe:
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pound bone-in or boneless pork chops (4-5 chops)
- 1 cup white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed tomato soup
- 2 cups hot water
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon)
Additional Ingredients for Variations
To give this recipe your own twist, you can add these additional ingredients:
– Chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, onions or celery
– Shredded cheese
– Seasonings such as paprika, cumin or oregano
Make sure to have all of these ingredients on hand before starting the recipe.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have gathered all the necessary ingredients, let us start preparing this amazing Southern Pork Chop Casserole Recipe. Be ready to indulge in a flavorful, savory and delectable meal that will leave everyone craving for more.
The Brining Process
Before anything else, let us first talk about The Brining Process. This step is critical as it will make the pork chops tender, juicy and flavorful. Way before cooking, give the pork chops a quick brine by soaking them into a solution of 1/4 cup of salt for approximately 2 cups of water. You can add your choice of herbs and spices such as bay leaves, thyme or garlic. Leave them in the fridge for about an hour then remove them from the brine and rinse with cold water.
Preparation of the Pork Chops
Now it is time to prepare your pork chops! In a medium bowl, make sure to whisk together 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon black pepper. Season both sides of each pork chop with this mixture.
Browning the Pork Chops
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once heated, add the bone-in pork chops (approximately 1 to 1/2 inch thick), making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Brown each side of the pork chops for about 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown.
Assembling the Casserole
Preheat the oven to 375°F before we proceed. In a separate bowl, mix together one cup of uncooked white rice, one can cream of mushroom soup (condensed), one can diced tomatoes (drained) and hot water (as per instructions on rice mix). Place the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Place the browned pork chops over the top of the rice mixture in your baking dish. Pour over them one can of tomato gravy (southern style) and add the 1/2 cup of water around the pork chops.
Baking Time
Bake your Southern Pork Chop Casserole at 375°F for about an hour or until the internal temperature of the pork chop reaches 145°F. Make sure to use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. Once done, let the casserole cool down for a few minutes before serving.
Congratulations! You have just prepared this flavorful and satisfying Southern Pork Chop Casserole. It is perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Substitutions and Variations
Now, I know some of us prefer to put our own spin on dishes to make them uniquely ours. If you’re feeling particularly creative or just want to try a different take on this southern pork chop casserole recipe, I’ve got you covered. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:
1. Swap the pork chops for boneless pork tenderloin or pork steaks for a slightly different flavor and texture.
2. Use a can of cream of mushroom soup instead of tomato gravy to add another layer of richness to the dish.
3. Add veggies like sliced bell peppers or okra to the casserole for added nutrition and flavor.
4. Experiment with different types of rice like brown or wild rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
5. Go full-on soul food by braising the pork chops in a dutch oven with onions, garlic, and chicken broth until they are fall-apart tender.
6. For a healthier version, use boneless chicken breasts instead of pork chops and swap out white rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice.
Remember, cooking is all about experimentation and tailoring recipes to your liking. So don’t be afraid to play around with flavors and ingredients!
Serving and Pairing
Now that you have mastered the art of creating this Southern Pork Chop Casserole, it is time to serve and enjoy it! This casserole dish is hearty and filling, perfect for serving as the main course of any dinner. I recommend pairing it with some steamed veggies or a fresh salad to add a pop of color and nutrition to your meal.
For even more flavor combinations, try serving this pork chop casserole with a side of mashed potatoes or creamy mac and cheese. The mix of textures will make every bite an explosion of flavor in your mouth.
If you’re looking for something more adventurous, try pairing this dish with a tangy green tomato chutney or a spicy jalapeno relish. These condiments will help balance the rich and savory flavor profile of the dish.
Lastly, don’t forget to serve up a glass of your favorite red wine or beer alongside your meal. The bold flavors in this casserole pair perfectly with a full-bodied red wine or a refreshing lager-style brew.
No matter how you choose to serve and pair this Southern classic, just know that you are in for a treat. Each bite of this smothered pork chop casserole is sure to transport you straight to the heart of Southern cooking.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making this delicious southern pork chop casserole, it’s time to think about how to store and reheat it for later. Fortunately, this recipe is perfect for making ahead of time and reheating whenever you’re ready to enjoy it again.
To make this casserole ahead of time, simply prepare it up until the baking stage. Instead of baking in the oven, cover your casserole dish with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed to heat through.
If you have leftover casserole after serving, let it cool down before storing in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 3 days or in your freezer for up to 2 months. When reheating leftovers, simply place the desired amount of casserole on a microwave-safe dish and heat it for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
When reheating in the oven, preheat your oven to 350°F and place your leftover casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes depending on your oven.
Remember not to reheat your casserole more than once, as repeated heating can cause bacteria growth and decrease the quality of the food. Enjoy this soulful southern meal one tasty bite at a time!
Tips for Perfect Results
Southern-style cooking is all about warmth, hospitality, and savoring every bit of flavor in a dish. As a chef specializing in this cuisine, I am keen on every detail on how to bring out the best taste and texture in every recipe. Here are some tips for an outstanding pork chop casserole that is sure to fill your soul with wholesome goodness.
1. Brine the Pork Chops
The brining process is a secret weapon to unlocking the juiciness of pork chops. By soaking them in a saltwater solution for 1-2 hours, they absorb moisture and flavor, making them tender and tastier when cooked. Rinse the pork chops with water after taking them out of the brine solution to remove any excess salt.
2. Brown the Pork Chops
Before placing the pork chops in a baking dish, brown them on both sides over high heat using vegetable oil for added depth of flavor. This technique caramelizes the natural sugars in the meat and creates a beautiful crust that seals in its juices.
3. Let Pork Chops Rest
After baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about ten minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute inside the meat while letting its temperature even out.
4. Adjust Seasoning to Taste
Taste your casserole before serving and add salt or black pepper according to your liking while keeping your guests’ preferences in mind. If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, you can adjust some of the ingredients accordingly.
5. Add Your Own Twist
Finally yet importantly, don’t shy away from adding your own touch or experimenting with various spices or sauces that complement pork chops rice casserole southern-style meals like smothered pork chops or onion gravy. After all, food nurtures both our bodies and souls; it’s an expression of creativity and comfort that deserves to be customized according to our tastes.
By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to making a delicious pork chop casserole that will put smiles on your loved ones’ faces.
FAQ
Before you start preparing this smothered pork chops and white rice casserole, let me share with you some frequently asked questions that might help clear up any doubts you may have. From the brining process to the best way of reheating leftovers, I’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in!
What is the best way to cook pork chops so they are not tough?
As a chef with expertise in Southern-style cuisine, I recommend using thick-cut bone-in pork chops when cooking. Thin-cut pork chops are prone to overcooking before they can get a proper sear. For seasoning, I suggest skipping the brining process but generously seasoning your chops with your preferred blend of spices. After cooking, it’s important to allow the pork chops some time to rest properly before eating. To cook the pork chops, start by searing them over medium-high heat and make sure to baste them during cooking. Finish with another resting period before serving.
What is the secret to moist pork chops?
To ensure juicy and succulent pork chops, it’s important to make use of fat. One way to do this is by basting the pork chops with melted butter during cooking. For an even greater flavor boost, add in aromatic garlic and herbs while basting. This technique is similar to how you would cook a steak and provides the added benefit of creating golden brown butter and crispy herbs and garlic to serve alongside the pork chops.
Do pork chops have to be browned before baking?
Looking to bake some scrumptious pork chops without the fuss of breading? Well, let me share a little secret with you! Searing the pork chops in a cast iron skillet before baking them is the key to unlocking that mouth-watering flavor. Trust me, it’s the beautiful golden crust that forms when you sear them that gives it that scrumptious taste. Simply sear your chops for around 2-3 minutes on each side, and then bake them in the same skillet. Not only does this make it easier for you, but it also eliminates the hassle of cleaning up multiple pots and pans.
Why do you soak pork chops in milk?
Using milk for brining is a method that can be incredibly useful in making meats, especially pork, tender and delicious. This brining technique allows the meat to absorb the flavors from the brine, ultimately helping it retain moisture while being cooked. Chef Missy Hui assures us that our pork chops will turn out fantastic using this brining method.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Southern Pork Chop Casserole recipe is perfect when you’re craving a comforting and filling meal that reminds you of home. With the perfect combination of tender pork chops, fluffy white rice, and flavorful tomato gravy, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.
As a chef who specializes in Southern-style cuisine, I know that food has the power to bring people together and create memories. And that’s exactly what this casserole recipe does. It’s a meal that feels nostalgic and familiar but with a unique twist that sets it apart from other pork chop recipes.
So why not give this recipe a try and see for yourself just how delicious it is? Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for an easy weeknight dinner option, this casserole won’t disappoint. And with the helpful tips and variations listed above, you can customize it to fit your personal taste preferences or dietary restrictions.
In Southern cooking, sharing a meal is about more than just satisfying your hunger; it’s about sharing love and creating meaningful connections. So gather around the table with those you love and savor every bite of this soulful dish – I guarantee it will warm both your heart and your belly.
Southern Pork Chop Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 bone in pork chops
- 1 cup white rice (uncooked)
- 1 (1 1/4 ounce) package onion soup mix
- 1 (10 1/2 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 1/2 cups water
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- Season pork chops with salt and pepper and sear in a pan until brown but NOT done.
- Grease a 9x13 dish; pour in rice to cover the bottom.
- Mix soups and water in a sauce pan over medium heat until well dissolved.
- Place pork chops on top of rice then pour soup mix over pork chops.
- Bake in a 350 degree oven covered for 45minutes to 1 hour.