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### Instructions
#### Step 1: Make the Cheesy Potato Bake
1. **Preheat your oven** to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. **Prepare the potatoes**: Peel and thinly slice the russet potatoes. A mandoline slicer works great for uniform slices, but a sharp knife will work fine too.
3. **Assemble the bake**: Layer the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping each layer. This will ensure the potatoes cook evenly and create a beautiful texture.
4. **Make the cream mixture**: In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the potatoes, making sure the potatoes are well-coated.
5. **Add the cheese**: Sprinkle both the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the potatoes.
6. **Bake**: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. After 40 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
7. **Finish**: Once done, remove the cheesy potato bake from the oven and drizzle with the melted butter. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and set aside to keep warm while you prepare the pork chops.
#### Step 2: Cook the Garlic Butter Pork Chops
1. **Season the pork chops**: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, and a little thyme and rosemary on both sides.
2. **Sear the pork chops**: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops to the pan and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F or 63°C).
3. **Prepare the garlic butter sauce**: Once the pork chops are seared, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the skillet, followed by the minced garlic. Let the garlic sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. **Add the herbs and lemon**: Add the fresh rosemary and thyme to the skillet, along with the lemon juice if using. Let everything simmer for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. **Coat the pork chops**: Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the pork chops, ensuring they are fully coated. Let the pork chops rest in the skillet for a few minutes to soak up the flavors.
#### Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
Once the **Garlic Butter Pork Chops** and **Cheesy Potato Bake** are ready, plate the pork chops alongside a generous helping of the creamy potato bake. The tender, juicy pork pairs perfectly with the rich, cheesy potatoes, making this dish a comforting and indulgent treat. Garnish with extra fresh herbs or a light drizzle of the garlic butter sauce for an added touch of flavor.
### Why This Recipe Works
– **Flavorful Pork Chops**: The garlic butter sauce infuses the pork chops with incredible flavor while keeping them moist and tender. The fresh herbs elevate the dish, giving it a savory and aromatic profile.
– **Creamy, Cheesy Potatoes**: The cheesy potato bake is the perfect comfort food side dish, with layers of tender potatoes smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce that will melt in your mouth.
– **Easy to Make**: Despite how indulgent this meal feels, both dishes are straightforward to prepare and can be made in under an hour. The baked potatoes cook while you focus on the pork chops, making it a great option for a busy weeknight or weekend dinner.
– **Versatile Meal**: You can customize the recipe with different types of cheese, herbs, or seasonings depending on your preferences. Try adding a bit of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the potatoes for extra flavor, or experiment with different herbs in the garlic butter sauce for the pork chops.
### Tips for Success
– **Rest the Pork Chops**: After cooking, allow the pork chops to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain their juices and makes them extra tender.
– **Add Veggies**: While the cheesy potato bake is rich and filling, consider adding some steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans on the side to balance out the richness of the dish.
– **Use Bone-In Pork Chops**: Bone-in pork chops tend to be more flavorful and juicier than boneless chops, but you can use boneless pork chops if you prefer.
### Final Thoughts
**Garlic Butter Pork Chops with Cheesy Potato Bake** is the ultimate comfort meal, with the perfect balance of rich flavors and textures. The juicy, garlic-infused pork chops and the creamy, cheesy potatoes come together to create a dinner that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to make. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special occasion, this dish will be a crowd-pleaser that leaves everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy this hearty meal with your loved ones and savor the flavors of comfort at its best!
