Pork Chops Cheddar Mash (Printable Version)

Seared pork chops served over creamy cheddar mash with savory gravy and crisp green beans.

# Components:

→ Pork Chops

01 - 4 boneless pork chops, approximately 1-inch thick
02 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
03 - ½ teaspoon black pepper
04 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
05 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
06 - 1 sprig fresh thyme (optional)

→ Cheddar Mashed Potatoes

07 - 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
08 - 1 teaspoon salt
09 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
10 - ½ cup whole milk, adjust as needed
11 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
12 - ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper

→ Pan Gravy

13 - 2 tablespoons pan drippings from pork chops
14 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
15 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (substitute gluten-free flour for gluten-free option)
16 - 1½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
17 - ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
18 - Salt and pepper, to taste

→ Green Beans

19 - 12 ounces fresh green beans, trimmed
20 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
21 - ½ teaspoon salt
22 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper

# Preparation steps:

01 - Place peeled, cubed potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add 1 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15 to 18 minutes. Drain thoroughly and return potatoes to the pot.
02 - Mash potatoes with butter, whole milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and ground white pepper until smooth and creamy. Keep warm.
03 - While potatoes cook, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season pork chops evenly with kosher salt and black pepper. Sear chops for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Add the thyme sprig during cooking if desired. Remove chops and tent with foil.
04 - Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to skillet drippings. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and Dijon mustard. Simmer, whisking constantly, until the gravy thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
05 - Toss trimmed green beans with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Steam or sauté until bright green and crisp-tender, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
06 - Spoon cheddar mashed potatoes into bowls. Place one pork chop atop the potatoes, drizzle with pan gravy, and serve green beans alongside.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Satisfying and comforting main dish for family dinners
  • Simple gluten-free option available
02 -
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour in the gravy
  • Sharp white cheddar can be used in place of regular cheddar
03 -
  • Let pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving to keep them juicy
  • Mash potatoes while hot for the creamiest texture
Return