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 pork chops & cheddar mash bowl on a chilly weekend when we craved something extra cozy but still easy enough for a busy evening. It quickly became a favorite for its rich flavors and how simple cleanup is—especially when hungry kids are waiting at the table!
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. Drain, return to pot, and mash with butter, milk, cheddar, and white pepper until smooth and creamy. Keep warm.
- Cook the pork chops:
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season pork chops with salt and pepper. Sear chops until golden and just cooked through. 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 briefly. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and Dijon mustard. Simmer, whisking constantly, until thickened. Season to taste.
- Prepare green beans:
- Toss green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Steam or sauté until bright green and crisp-tender.
- 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 When my kids help mash the potatoes and spoon everything into bowls, it feels like a true team dinner—and seeing them enjoy every bite is always the best reward.
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
Calories: 600, Total Fat: 32 g, Carbohydrates: 37 g, Protein: 41 g (per serving)
Save This bowl brings together classic comfort food in a way that's both simple and satisfying. Perfect for relaxing evenings or making special memories around the table.
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → How do I ensure pork chops stay juicy when cooking?
Season chops well and sear them over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to reach 145°F for doneness without drying out.
- → What type of potatoes work best for creamy mash?
Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for mashing as they yield a naturally creamy texture and absorb flavors well.
- → Can I prepare the pan gravy gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour to maintain the gravy’s smooth consistency.
- → What’s the best way to cook green beans for this dish?
Steam or sauté green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper until crisp-tender, preserving their bright green color and fresh flavor.
- → How can I add extra flavor to the pork chops?
Add a fresh thyme sprig during searing to infuse fragrant herbal notes into the meat.
- → Are there good alternatives to cheddar in the mash?
Sharp white cheddar or aged cheddar varieties provide a similarly rich and tangy flavor for the mashed potatoes.