Pork Chops Cheddar Mash (Printable Version)

Tender pork chops atop creamy cheddar mash with savory gravy and crisp green beans for a hearty meal.

# What You Need:

→ Pork Chops

01 - 4 boneless pork chops, approximately 1 inch thick
02 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
03 - 0.5 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 - 0.5 cup whole milk, plus more if needed
11 - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
12 - 0.25 teaspoon ground white pepper

→ Pan Gravy

13 - 2 tablespoons pan drippings from seared pork chops
14 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
15 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (use gluten-free flour for gluten-free option)
16 - 1.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
17 - 0.5 teaspoon Dijon mustard
18 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Green Beans

19 - 12 ounces fresh green beans, trimmed
20 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
21 - 0.5 teaspoon salt
22 - 0.25 teaspoon black pepper

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Place peeled and cubed potatoes into a large pot. Cover with cold water and add 1 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil and cook until tender when pierced with a fork, about 15 to 18 minutes. Drain thoroughly, return potatoes to pot, and mash together with butter, milk, cheddar cheese, and white pepper until smooth and creamy. Keep warm.
02 - While potatoes cook, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season pork chops evenly with salt and black pepper. Sear chops for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Optionally add fresh thyme sprig to the skillet during cooking. Transfer chops to a plate and tent with foil to rest.
03 - Reduce the heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet drippings. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and Dijon mustard. Simmer while whisking constantly until the gravy thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
04 - Meanwhile, toss trimmed green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Steam or sauté until they turn bright green and are crisp-tender, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
05 - Divide cheddar mashed potatoes among serving bowls. Top each with a pork chop and drizzle with pan gravy. Serve green beans alongside.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Comforting and satisfying main dish
  • Easy gluten-free adaptation available
02 -
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour in the gravy
  • Sharp white cheddar works just as well as yellow cheddar for mashed potatoes
03 -
  • Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving
  • Taste and adjust seasoning in the gravy for perfect flavor balance
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