Oh boy, am I excited to share this recipe with you! There’s something truly magical about a one-dish meal that brings the warmth of home-cooked goodness straight to your dinner table. This **Delicious Pork Chops & Rice Casserole** has become a go-to favorite in my kitchen, and I can’t wait for you to try it too.
I remember the first time I made this casserole; it was one of those chilly evenings when my friends came over for dinner. I needed something hearty and comforting, and this dish did not disappoint! Let’s just say the compliments were flowing, and by the end of the night, everyone wanted to know my secret! Spoiler alert: it’s super simple and loaded with flavor!
So, if you’re ready to impress your friends or just want to treat yourself to something delish, let’s dive into what makes this casserole so special!
What’s in Delicious Pork Chops & Rice Casserole?
Pork Chops: The star of the show! I prefer using bone-in pork chops because they add extra flavor and moisture during cooking. Look for chops that are about one inch thick for the best results.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning that brings out the flavor of the pork. Never underestimate the power of a little salt and pepper!
Olive Oil: Using olive oil for searing not only adds flavor but helps achieve that lovely golden crust on the pork chops.
Onion: One of my trusty allium friends! Chopped onions bring a sweet, aromatic quality to the dish when sautéed.
Garlic: Because everything is better with garlic! It adds a beautiful layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
Long-Grain White Rice: This is the base of our casserole and helps absorb all the wonderful flavors.
Chicken Broth: I always use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt levels. It infuses the rice with rich flavor and keeps everything moist.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes provide a nice acidity, balancing the richness of the pork and the creaminess of the rice.
Spices (Paprika, Dried Thyme, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder): These spices come together to create depth and warmth. Feel free to adjust the amounts based on your spice preferences!
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley isn’t just for looks – it adds a bright, herbal finish to the dish.
Steamed Broccoli: Optional, but a great way to add some greens for serving. Plus, who doesn’t like a pop of color on their plate?
Is Delicious Pork Chops & Rice Casserole Good for You?
Absolutely! This casserole is not just cozy comfort food; it’s also quite balanced.
Pork Chops: They’re a great source of protein and provide essential vitamins and minerals. Just keep an eye on portion sizes to maintain a balanced diet.
Rice: Using white rice makes it filling, but if you want to add more fiber, you can opt for brown rice or quinoa.
Veggies: Including something green, like steamed broccoli, enhances the nutritional value of the meal, giving you fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
One thing to keep in mind is the sodium content, especially if you’re using regular chicken broth and seasoned canned tomatoes. Just stick with low-sodium options, and you can indulge without the guilt!
Ingredients
– 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup long-grain white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Steamed broccoli, for serving (optional)
This recipe serves about 4 people, so it’s perfect for a small gathering or a weekday family meal!
How to Make Delicious Pork Chops & Rice Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Season both sides of the pork chops generously with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are browned. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
5. Add the rice to the skillet and stir it with the onion and garlic for about 1 minute to lightly toast the rice.
6. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, paprika, thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Transfer the rice mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Place the browned pork chops on top of the rice mixture.
8. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
9. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the pork chops are fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 145°F) and the rice is tender.
10. Remove from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
11. Serve with steamed broccoli on the side, if desired. Enjoy your delicious casserole!
Serving Suggestions and Tips
Let’s keep the good vibes rolling! Here are a few tips and serving suggestions to make this casserole even better:
– **Customize the Veggies:** Feel free to throw in some bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrients. The more, the merrier!
– **Leftovers Make Wonderful Meals:** This casserole keeps well in the fridge, so don’t hesitate to make a double batch for easy meals later in the week.
– **Makes Delicious Burrito Filling:** Use leftover pork chops and rice to create scrumptious burritos – just add some cheese, salsa, and your favorite toppings!
– **Wine Pairing:** Enjoy a glass of white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, with this hearty dish.
I hope you give this **Delicious Pork Chops & Rice Casserole** a try. It’s one of those dishes that has the power to bring people together over a warm, comforting meal. So, roll up those sleeves and let’s get cooking! Don’t forget to share your experience with me – I’d love to hear how it turned out! Happy cooking!
