This Pork Chops and Rice Casserole is a warm and cozy dish that combines juicy pork chops with fluffy rice and creamy goodness. Perfect for a comforting family meal!
I love how simple it is to prepare—just layer everything in one dish and let the oven do the work. Plus, it makes the house smell amazing while it cooks!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops give great flavor. If you prefer leaner meat, boneless pork chops work too, but they may cook faster. Just keep an eye on them!
Rice: Long-grain white rice is used for fluffy texture. If you don’t have it, consider using basmati or jasmine rice. Brown rice can be substituted, but it will require more liquid and longer cooking time.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor to the rice. If you want a lighter option, homemade cream sauce or a dairy-free soup can be used. You can also skip it and add some cheese instead.
Cheddar Cheese: While optional, I recommend it for added flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the cheese.
How Do I Ensure the Rice Cooks Perfectly?
Getting the rice just right is key for this casserole. Here’s how to ensure it turns out fluffy:
- Use the right amount of liquid, so your rice isn’t too dry or soggy. Follow the measurements carefully!
- Cover the dish tightly with foil during baking. This keeps the steam in, allowing the rice to cook evenly.
- Check the rice for doneness at the end of baking—if it’s still a bit firm, let it bake uncovered for a little longer.
These tips help make sure your casserole comes out perfectly every time. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Pork Chops and Rice Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1 1/4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for added flavor in the rice layer)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and about 1 hour for baking, giving a total time of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. It’s a simple one-dish meal that cooks all in the oven, making cleanup easy too!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Before you start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready when you’re done prepping.
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Take your bone-in pork chops and sprinkle salt and black pepper on both sides. This will enhance their flavor as they cook.
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Prepare the Rice Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix together the uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, water (or chicken broth), garlic powder, onion powder, and shredded cheddar cheese (if you’re using it). Stir everything together until it’s well combined.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and pour the rice mixture into the bottom, spreading it out evenly. Place the browned pork chops on top of the rice mixture.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep it moist while cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. This allows all the flavors to meld together.
7. Check for Doneness:
After baking, carefully check the rice. It should be tender and the liquid should be absorbed. If the rice is still a little firm, you can bake it uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is cooked perfectly, remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the pork chops for a colorful garnish.
9. Enjoy!
Serve hot and enjoy every bite of this delicious Pork Chops and Rice Casserole! It’s a hearty and comforting family favorite.
With juicy pork chops sitting atop creamy, flavorful rice, this dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops in This Recipe?
It’s best to thaw the pork chops before cooking for even cooking. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a quicker option.
Can I Substitute the Cream of Mushroom Soup?
Absolutely! If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup or make a homemade white sauce using butter, flour, and milk for a lighter option.
How Can I Adjust the Recipe for Smaller Portions?
You can easily halve the recipe! Just use 2 pork chops and reduce the amount of rice and other ingredients accordingly. Adjust the cooking time if necessary as well, checking for doneness.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or oven at a low temperature, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist.