Save to Pinterest 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 first time I made this pork chops & cheddar mash bowl, it was an instant hit at our dinner table. The combination of tender pork, creamy potatoes, and a luscious pan gravy brings warmth and nostalgia to every bite.
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 salt. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, 15 to 18 minutes. Drain, return to pot, and mash with butter, milk, cheddar, and white pepper until smooth and creamy. Keep warm.
- Sear 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 to 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, stir in flour and cook 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and Dijon. Simmer, whisking constantly, until thickened, 3 to 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 to 7 minutes.
- Assemble bowls:
- Spoon cheddar mashed potatoes into bowls. Top each with a pork chop, drizzle with pan gravy, and serve green beans on the side.
Save to Pinterest This recipe quickly became a favorite in our family, especially on chilly evenings when we gather around the table for something hearty and homemade. Even picky eaters dig in with smiles.
Required Tools
Large pot, colander, potato masher or ricer, large skillet, whisk, tongs, and steamer basket or sauté pan make prep and assembly easy.
Allergen Information
This dish contains milk (cheese, butter, milk), wheat (use GF flour if needed), and may contain mustard. Always verify ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 600 calories, 32 g total fat, 37 g carbohydrates, and 41 g protein for a well-rounded meal.
Save to Pinterest It's a complete comfort meal in a bowl. Enjoy the rich flavors and easy cleanup tonight!
Recipe FAQs
- → How should I cook the pork chops to keep them juicy?
Sear the pork chops over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked to 145°F internal temperature, ensuring they remain tender and juicy.
- → Can I make the mashed potatoes creamier?
Yes, add more milk gradually while mashing to achieve your desired creamy consistency without making them too runny.
- → What can I use instead of green beans?
Steamed broccoli or roasted carrots work well as alternatives, providing similar texture and color contrast.
- → How do I make the pan gravy gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour when cooking the gravy to ensure it’s safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
- → What herbs complement the pork chops best?
Fresh thyme adds a mild, earthy aroma that enhances the pork’s flavor, but rosemary or sage are great alternatives.