Hearty Smothered Beef Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a soulful, comforting dish that brings tender meat and creamy, cheesy potatoes together in perfect harmony, you have to try this Hearty Smothered Beef Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole Recipe. It’s a cozy one-dish wonder that fills the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and leaves everyone asking for seconds. Imagine juicy beef chops slow-cooked in flavorful gravy, layers of scalloped potatoes bathed in luscious cheese sauce, and a golden crust that adds just the right amount of crisp. This recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is your first step toward creating this flavorful masterpiece. Each item plays a key role whether it’s building the rich gravy, tenderizing the beef, or creating that irresistibly creamy potato layer that makes this dish unforgettable.

• 6 boneless beef chops: The hearty star protein that becomes wonderfully tender when smothered and slow-cooked.
• 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors while seasoning the beef perfectly.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle kick of warmth to the meat and the creamy sauce.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Imparts savory depth to the beef seasoning.
• 1 tsp onion powder: Rounds out the flavor profile with a mild, aromatic touch.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Perfect for browning the beef and building that rich base for your gravy.
• 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes: The tender, buttery foundation of your scalloped layers.
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced: Softens in the gravy, adding natural sweetness and complexity.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Half to enrich the sauce and half to melt on top into a golden crust.
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Creates the roux that thickens your creamy cheese sauce beautifully.
• 2 cups milk: The creamy backbone of the luscious potato sauce.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds depth and savory richness to the smothering gravy.
• 1 tsp dried thyme: Brings an earthy, herbaceous note to the gravy.
• 1/2 tsp paprika: Provides warmth and a subtle smokiness in every bite.
• 2 tbsp butter: Essential for a velvety roux and a touch of richness.

How to Make Hearty Smothered Beef Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Season and Brown the Beef Chops

Start by seasoning your boneless beef chops generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Heat olive oil in a heavy Dutch oven and brown each chop on both sides. This step seals in the juices and creates those rich browned bits at the bottom of the pot that layer your gravy with flavor. Set the chops aside while you prepare the sauce base.

Step 2: Make the Gravy with Sautéed Onions

In the same pot, toss in the thinly sliced onions and sauté until they turn soft and translucent. Then gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly until the mixture simmers gently. Add in dried thyme and paprika to infuse the gravy with warm herbs and a subtle smoky vibe. This luscious base will become the smothering sauce for your tender beef.

Step 3: Simmer the Beef Until Fall-Apart Tender

Return your browned beef chops to the pot with the gravy. Cover and let everything simmer gently on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow simmer transforms the chops into fork-tender perfection. Once done, remove the meat, shred it into bite-sized pieces, and keep the flavorful gravy warm. You’re almost there!

Step 4: Preheat Oven and Prepare Potatoes

While the beef finishes cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Peel and thinly slice enough potatoes to make 4 packed cups. Thin slices ensure that your potatoes soften evenly and get beautifully infused with the creamy cheese sauce.

Step 5: Craft the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt butter and whisk in all-purpose flour to create a smooth roux. Cook for a couple of minutes to get rid of any raw flour taste, then gradually whisk in milk. Simmer until the sauce thickens perfectly. Season with salt and pepper for balance, then stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and silky-smooth. This sauce is what will make your potatoes irresistibly creamy and cheesy.

Step 6: Coat Potatoes in Cheese Sauce

Gently toss your thin potato slices in the creamy cheese sauce until they’re all evenly coated. This step ensures every bite of the scalloped potatoes is rich, soft, and just bursting with cheesy goodness.

Step 7: Assemble the Casserole Layers

Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and layer half of the coated potatoes on the bottom. Spread all the shredded beef evenly over the potato layer and ladle a generous amount of the savory beef gravy on top. Finish by adding the second half of the coated potatoes and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top for a melty, golden crust in the oven.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden and Tender

Cover your casserole with foil and bake for about 45 to 60 minutes to allow the potatoes to soften and absorb the flavors. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 30 to 45 minutes until the topping browns beautifully and the potatoes are fork-tender. Your house will smell incredible by this point!

Step 9: Rest Before Serving

Once baked, let the casserole rest for 15 to 20 minutes before serving. This step allows the layers to set for easier slicing and helps concentrate the flavors even more. Now you’re ready to dig in and savor every cozy bite of this Hearty Smothered Beef Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole Recipe.

How to Serve Hearty Smothered Beef Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

To brighten up the richness, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over each serving. These fresh herbs add a lovely pop of color and a subtle freshness that complements the hearty meat and cheesy potatoes perfectly.

Side Dishes

This casserole really stands on its own, but you can balance the meal with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans to bring a crunch and lighten the plate. A side of roasted carrots or sautéed spinach also pairs beautifully, adding vibrant color and extra nutrients.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving individual portions in ramekins for a charming presentation, or make a family-style plating with fresh bread on the side to soak up any leftover gravy. Drizzle a little extra warm gravy on top at the table to impress guests with that glossy, inviting finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Hearty Smothered Beef Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole Recipe tastes just as wonderful the next day. Store it tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors continue to meld beautifully overnight.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole after baking and cooling completely. Wrap it securely with plastic wrap and foil or use an airtight container. It stays delicious for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes depending on portion size. Microwaving works well for single servings but may sacrifice some crispness on top. A quick broil at the end restores that lovely golden finish.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chops for this recipe?

Absolutely! Bone-in chops will add even more flavor to the gravy as they cook. Just allow for a slightly longer simmer to get the meat tender enough for shredding.

What type of potatoes work best for scalloped potatoes?

Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds are ideal because they soften nicely and absorb flavors well, creating that creamy, tender texture you want in scalloped potatoes.

Is there a substitute for cheddar cheese?

Yes, you can swap cheddar for mozzarella for a gooier texture or Gruyere for an extra nutty taste. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

You can, but for best results, brown the beef chops first and then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker on low for about 6-8 hours. Add the cheese sauce and potatoes later to avoid overcooking.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Replace the all-purpose flour in the cheese sauce with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch slurry. Double-check all seasonings to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Smothered Beef Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole Recipe is the kind of dish that feels like it was made with love and meant to be shared at the family table. It’s comforting, flavorful, and straightforward enough to become a go-to when you want to impress without stress. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience firsthand how it fills your home with warmth and happiness. Trust me, once you’ve tasted it, it might just become your new favorite comfort food!

Print