Cheesy-Topped Chops
Cheesy-Topped Chops feature tender pork chops topped with a rich, cheesy onion sauce, baked to perfection—ideal for comforting family dinners and flavorful gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, brown the pork chops in hot oil for about 10 minutes; drain.
- Transfer the browned chops to an 8 x 8 x 2-inch baking dish.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter or margarine; stir in the flour.
- Add the milk and cook, stirring until thickened and bubbly.
- Remove from heat and stir half of the thickened mixture into the beaten egg.
- Return the egg mixture to the saucepan and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, grated onion, and pepper.
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture atop each pork chop.
- Sprinkle with paprika.
- Bake uncovered in a 350°F oven for 30 minutes or until the meat is done.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in a mixture of your favorite herbs and spices before browning. If you don't have Parmesan cheese, a mix of mozzarella and cheddar can work well too. To enhance the sauce, add a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard while thickening. Remember to monitor the cooking time closely to prevent overcooking the chops.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheesy-topped chops alongside creamy mashed potatoes or Papa's Scalloped Potatoes & Ham for a comforting meal. Steamed vegetables like green beans or asparagus make a fresh side that complements the richness of the dish. A simple salad, such as Mildred's Salad, can add a refreshing crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chops in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the pork tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy-Topped Chops contains roughly 1238 calories, with 29g protein, 218g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (105% of the Daily Value), iron (75% of the Daily Value), and calcium (61% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 871mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used in place of bone-in chops. Just be aware that they may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid dryness. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for perfectly cooked pork.
What can I substitute for the grated onion?
If you don't have grated onion, you can use onion powder as a substitute. About 1 teaspoon should provide a similar flavor. Alternatively, finely minced shallots or leeks can be used for a milder onion taste.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it's still cold from the fridge.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).