There is something irresistibly comforting about a dish that brings together tender, juicy pork chops cooked to perfection and a rich, flavorful bed of rice loaded with cheesy, smoky goodness. The Smothered Pork Chops with Cheesy Bacon Rice Recipe is exactly that kind of meal — hearty, satisfying, and packed with layers of taste that will quickly make it a staple in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re cooking for family or craving a cozy solo supper, this dish is a celebration of simple ingredients elevated into a dish everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is straightforward, and each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the juicy pork chops to the creamy soup and melt-in-your-mouth cheese, every component contributes to a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable.
- Boneless pork chops (about 2 pounds): The star protein that becomes wonderfully tender and juicy when cooked properly.
- Seasoned salt (½ tsp): Adds just the right kick of flavor to season the pork chops effortlessly.
- Vegetable oil (1 Tbsp): Perfect for browning the pork chops, creating that beautiful golden crust.
- Cooked rice (2 cups): Acts as a comforting base to soak up all the creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Unsalted cream of chicken soup (10.5-oz can): Provides a rich, savory creamy sauce that keeps the pork chops moist.
- Milk (1¼ cups): Blends with the soup to create the perfect smooth sauce consistency.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (¾ cup): Offers a stretchy, mild cheesiness that melts smoothly.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (½ cup): Adds sharpness and depth of flavor to the cheesy rice topping.
- Bacon (8 slices, cooked and chopped): Infuses smoky, crispy texture contrasting wonderfully with the creamy sauce and tender pork.
How to Make Smothered Pork Chops with Cheesy Bacon Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 375ºF to ensure it’s ready when your pork chops and rice are prepared. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray so nothing sticks and cleaning up stays easy.
Step 2: Layer the Rice
Take your already cooked rice and spread it evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan. This rice bed will soak up the flavors from the sauce and meld perfectly with the pork chops as it bakes.
Step 3: Season and Brown Pork Chops
Sprinkle seasoned salt generously on the pork chops, enhancing their natural flavor. Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the pork chops for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they are starting to brown. This step locks in juices and gives the chops a lovely, appetizing crust. Once browned, nestle the pork chops on top of your rice layer in the baking pan.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
Mix together the unsalted cream of chicken soup and milk until smooth and creamy. Pour this luscious sauce evenly over the pork chops and rice—this is what will keep everything tender and succulent while baking.
Step 5: Bake and Add Cheese and Bacon
Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 minutes. After this initial bake, remove the pan and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the pork chops. Scatter the cooked, chopped bacon on top of the cheese, lending that smoky crunch everyone loves. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden for that irresistible finish.
How to Serve Smothered Pork Chops with Cheesy Bacon Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or green onions make wonderful garnishes, adding a pop of color and a touch of brightness to the rich dish. A light drizzle of hot sauce or your favorite barbecue sauce can also enhance the smoky-sweet flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
While the pork chops and cheesy bacon rice stand on their own, crisp green vegetables like steamed broccoli, sautéed green beans, or a fresh garden salad provide a lovely contrast in texture and lighten the meal just enough.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pork chops and cheesy bacon rice straight from the pan for a comforting, family-style presentation that invites everyone to dig in. Alternatively, plate individual servings and garnish with a sprinkle of cheese and a bacon slice on top for a restaurant-style feel that’s sure to impress any guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Smothered Pork Chops with Cheesy Bacon Rice Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners during a busy week.
Freezing
This dish freezes very well! Simply transfer leftovers to a freezer-safe container or wrap the pan tightly with foil and plastic wrap before freezing. It will maintain its quality for up to 2 months, so you can enjoy this comfort food any time.
Reheating
To reheat, place your portion in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For the oven, bake at 350ºF covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes. This helps retain moisture and keeps the pork chops juicy without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops can add even more flavor, but you may need to increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they cook through completely. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145ºF.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a homemade or lighter option, you can substitute with a mix of chicken broth thickened with a bit of flour or cornstarch, combined with milk and seasoning to replicate that creamy texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap out the milk with a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk, use dairy-free cheese substitutes, and check for a dairy-free cream soup option. The flavors may change slightly but the dish will still be delicious.
Can I use fresh bacon instead of pre-cooked bacon?
Definitely! Cook the bacon yourself in a skillet or oven until crisp, then chop it for topping the dish. Freshly cooked bacon tends to have better flavor and texture than pre-packaged options.
How do I know when the pork chops are fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer and check that the internal temperature reaches 145ºF. The pork should be slightly pink in the center but safe and juicy, not overcooked.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Smothered Pork Chops with Cheesy Bacon Rice Recipe, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved comfort food. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your stomach with pure satisfaction. I hope you have as much fun making and enjoying this recipe as I do sharing it. Happy cooking!
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Smothered Pork Chops with Cheesy Bacon Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty and comforting smothered pork chops recipe features tender pork chops cooked to a golden brown, simmered in a creamy sauce, and baked with melted cheeses and crispy bacon atop a bed of fluffy rice. Perfect for a satisfying family dinner ready in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Pork Chops and Seasonings
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 2 pounds)
- ½ tsp seasoned salt
- 1 Tbsp vegetable oil
Base and Sauce
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup
- 1¼ cups milk
Toppings
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375ºF (190ºC). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Layer Rice: Evenly spread the 2 cups of cooked rice in the bottom of the prepared baking pan. This will serve as a flavorful base for the pork chops and sauce.
- Season and Brown Pork Chops: Sprinkle both sides of the pork chops with ½ teaspoon of seasoned salt. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear them for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they start to brown.
- Arrange Pork Chops: Transfer the browned pork chops on top of the rice layer in the baking pan, spacing them evenly.
- Prepare Cream Sauce: In a bowl, mix together the can of unsalted cream of chicken soup and 1¼ cups of milk until smooth and combined. Pour this creamy mixture evenly over the pork chops and rice.
- Bake Initial Phase: Place the pan uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. This allows the pork chops to cook through and the sauce to thicken.
- Add Cheese and Bacon Toppings: Remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle ¾ cup shredded mozzarella and ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the pork chops. Then scatter the cooked, chopped bacon slices on top of the cheese.
- Final Bake: Return the pan to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, until the cheeses melt and bubble, and the bacon is heated through.
Notes
- For juicier pork chops, avoid overcooking during the initial browning step.
- You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with homemade cream sauce for a fresher taste.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a crisp salad to complete the meal.
- Bacon can be cooked in advance and stored in the fridge to save time.
