Save Pork Chops & Cheddar Mash Bowl
I first served this bowl to my family and it was an instant weeknight favorite.
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 and pepper (to taste)
- Green Beans: 12 oz fresh green beans (trimmed), 1 tbsp olive oil, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the mashed potatoes:
- Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add 1 tsp salt. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, 15–18 minutes. Drain, return to pot, and mash with butter, milk, cheddar, and white pepper until smooth and creamy. Keep warm.
- Sear the pork chops:
- While potatoes cook, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season pork chops with salt and pepper. Sear chops 3–4 minutes per side until golden and just cooked through (145°F/63°C internal temp). Add thyme sprig for extra flavor if desired. Transfer chops to a plate and tent with foil.
- Make the pan gravy:
- Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to skillet drippings, then stir in flour and cook 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and Dijon. Simmer, whisking constantly, until thickened, 3–5 minutes. Season to taste.
- Prepare the green beans:
- While gravy simmers, toss green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Steam or sauté until bright green and crisp-tender, about 5–7 minutes.
- Assemble the bowls:
- Spoon cheddar mashed potatoes into bowls. Top with a pork chop, drizzle with pan gravy, and serve green beans on the side.
Save We love swapping green beans for steamed broccoli or roasted carrots.
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 (in Dijon). Always check product labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 600; Total Fat 32 g; Carbohydrates 37 g; Protein 41 g
Save Rest the chops briefly so the gravy stays glossy and the potatoes stay fluffy.
Recipe Guide
- → How do I keep pork chops juicy?
Ensure chops are not overcooked—aim for an internal temp of 145°F and let them rest after searing for tenderness.
- → Can I use another cheese in the mash?
Yes, sharp white cheddar or gouda are great substitutes for classic flavor and creaminess in the potatoes.
- → How do I make the bowl gluten-free?
Simply substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour in the pan gravy to keep the dish safe for GF diets.
- → What wine pairs well with this meal?
Try a dry Chardonnay for brightness or a light Pinot Noir to complement the savory pork and gravy flavors.
- → Can I swap green beans for other vegetables?
Absolutely! Steamed broccoli or roasted carrots work well, providing color and a fresh balance to the bowl.
- → Tips for extra creamy mashed potatoes?
Ensure potatoes are fully cooked, mash with hot butter and milk, and add more milk as needed for desired creaminess.