Garlic Butter Beef Chops with Cheesy Potato Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Convenience: The beef chops bake on top of the cheesy potatoes, infusing every layer with incredible flavor and minimizing cleanup.
• Rich and Creamy Side Dish: The potato bake, made with cheddar cheese, sour cream, and milk, delivers indulgent creaminess with every bite.
• Juicy and Flavorful Beef Chops: Searing the chops before baking locks in their juices, while the garlic butter sauce takes them to the next level.
• Crowd-Pleasing Presentation: This dish is both delicious and visually appealing, making it a perfect centerpiece for family meals or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

• Beef Chops: Bone-in beef chops are ideal for their flavor and tenderness. Adjust the cooking time slightly if using boneless cuts.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a bold, tangy flavor to the potato bake. You can substitute Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different twist.
• Potatoes: Use Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy, starchy consistency, perfect for layering.
• Fresh Thyme: Adds an aromatic, herbaceous touch. Substitute with ½ teaspoon of dried thyme if necessary.
• Sour Cream: Brings tanginess and richness to the potato sauce. Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter alternative.

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prep and Preheat

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.

Prepare the Potatoes

1. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add sliced onions and cook for 5-7 minutes, until translucent and slightly caramelized.
3. Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then mix well.
4. In the greased dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly. Top with half the onions and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, onions, and cheese for even flavor distribution.

Make the Sauce

1. In a saucepan, combine milk and sour cream. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally, until warmed.
2. Pour the sauce evenly over the potatoes.
3. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes to soften the potatoes and meld flavors.

Cook the Beef Chops

1. Season the chops with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the chops for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown, then set aside.

Prepare the Garlic Butter

1. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and thyme sprigs, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the seared chops to coat them.

Combine and Bake

1. Remove the foil from the potato bake.
2. Place the seared beef chops on top of the potatoes in the baking dish.
3. Pour the garlic butter sauce over the entire dish.
4. Bake uncovered for another 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Serve

1. Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes to settle the flavors and firm up the cheese.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Smoked Cheddar Potatoes: Swap regular cheddar for smoked cheddar for a bold, smoky flavor in the potato bake.
• Herb Butter Beef: Add rosemary or sage to the garlic butter sauce for a fragrant twist.
• Loaded Potato Bake: Add sliced mushrooms or cooked spinach to the potato layers for added depth and texture.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless beef chops for this recipe?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as boneless cuts cook faster than bone-in.

2. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the potato bake and sear the beef chops in advance. Store them separately and bake together when ready to serve.

3. What type of potatoes work best?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture and ability to hold up during baking.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely. Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses work well.

5. Can I make this dish lighter?

For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduce the amount of cheese.

6. How can I tell if the beef chops are cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

7. Can I substitute dried thyme for fresh?

Yes, use ½ teaspoon of dried thyme in place of fresh.

8. Can I freeze leftovers?

The potato bake freezes well, but the texture of the beef chops may change. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

9. What can I serve with this dish?

A simple green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus complement this meal.

10. How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy?

Ensure even slicing and avoid overcooking during the initial bake.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Beef Chops with Cheesy Potato Bake is a decadent and satisfying meal that combines juicy, flavorful beef with rich, creamy potatoes. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Pair it with your favorite greens for a complete and memorable dining experience.