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 evening when I wanted something special for our family. The buttery mash and pan-gravy are always a hit, and everyone loves the addition of crisp green beans for balance.
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 salt. Boil until fork-tender (15–18 minutes), drain, then mash with butter, milk, cheddar, and white pepper until smooth. Keep potatoes warm.
- Sear Pork Chops:
- While potatoes cook, heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high. Season chops with salt and pepper, then sear 3–4 minutes per side until cooked through (145°F/63°C internal temp). Add thyme if desired. Transfer chops to a plate and tent with foil.
- Prepare Pan Gravy:
- Reduce skillet heat to medium. Add butter to drippings, stir in flour, and cook 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and Dijon. Simmer, whisking, until thickened (3–5 minutes), and season to taste.
- Cook Green Beans:
- 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 alongside.
Save This recipe has become a cozy favorite, especially on weekend nights when the family gathers for a warm and hearty meal around the dinner table.
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. Always check product labels and ingredients for specific allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 600, Total Fat: 32 g, Carbohydrates: 37 g, Protein: 41 g
Save With its rich flavors and simple steps, this bowl brings comfort to any dinner table. Enjoy every bite with family or friends.
Cooking Questions
- → How do I ensure pork chops stay juicy when cooking?
Season chops with salt and pepper then sear over medium-high heat, cooking about 3–4 minutes per side until just cooked through (145°F internal temperature), then let rest before serving.
- → What type of potatoes work best for a creamy mash?
Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for smooth, creamy texture and buttery flavor in mashed potatoes.
- → Can I make a gluten-free version of the pan gravy?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour to keep the gravy thick and flavorful without gluten.
- → What seasoning enhances the mashed potatoes' flavor?
Adding sharp cheddar cheese and a touch of ground white pepper complements the creamy potatoes with a rich, slightly spicy taste.
- → How should green beans be cooked for the best texture?
Steam or sauté green beans until bright green and crisp-tender, approximately 5–7 minutes, to retain freshness and slight crunch.