Pin 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 bowl for my family, it quickly became one of our go-to comfort dishes. The cheddar mash adds a special, ultra-creamy twist that everyone loves.
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 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 and tent with foil.
- Prepare 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.
- 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 Bowls:
- Spoon cheddar mashed potatoes into bowls. Top with a pork chop, drizzle with pan gravy, and serve green beans on the side.
Pin The kids always ask for extra gravy and everyone eagerly gathers around the table for this hearty, shareable dinner. It's become a favorite family tradition, especially on chilly nights.
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) and wheat (flour in gravy, gluten-free option available); may contain mustard (in Dijon). Check product labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 600, Total Fat: 32 g, Carbohydrates: 37 g, Protein: 41 g per serving
Pin Finish the bowl with a sprinkle of fresh thyme for brightness. Enjoy this comforting classic any night of the week!
Recipe Questions
- → How do you make cheddar mashed potatoes creamy?
Mash cooked Yukon Gold potatoes with butter, milk, shredded cheddar, and a touch of white pepper until smooth and creamy.
- → What temperature should pork chops reach?
Pork chops should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe and juicy results.
- → Can I make the pan gravy gluten-free?
Absolutely. Substitute gluten-free flour for all-purpose flour in the gravy to keep the dish gluten-free.
- → Are there alternatives to green beans?
Yes, try swapping green beans for steamed broccoli or roasted carrots to vary the vegetable side.
- → What cheese works best for the mash?
Sharp cheddar is ideal. For a twist, use sharp white cheddar for similar flavor and creamy texture.
- → What wine pairs well with this bowl?
Pair with a dry white wine like Chardonnay or a light red such as Pinot Noir for a complementary meal.