If you are searching for a hearty, comforting dinner that hits all the right notes, this Pork Chops and Rice Casserole Recipe is going to become your new favorite go-to. Combining tender, juicy pork chops with a creamy, flavorful rice base, this casserole brings a beautiful harmony of textures and tastes with every bite. The magic comes from a handful of pantry staples coming together effortlessly to create a dish that feels homey and indulgent in the best way. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend feast, this Pork Chops and Rice Casserole Recipe offers simplicity and satisfaction in equal measure.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, easy-to-find ingredients that each add their own special touch. From the creamy mushroom soup that brings richness, to the beef broth that infuses deep flavor, every component plays a crucial role in making this casserole a showstopper.
- Condensed cream of mushroom soup (10.5 ounces): This creates a smooth, velvety texture that keeps the rice perfectly creamy and delicious.
- Beef broth (2 cups): It adds savory depth and moisture, enhancing the overall flavor profile without overpowering.
- Uncooked long-grain white rice (1 cup): The base of the casserole that soaks up all the wonderful flavors while staying tender yet fluffy.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Gives a subtle aromatic punch that pairs beautifully with the pork and rice.
- Dried chives (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a mild onion-like freshness, balancing the rich elements perfectly.
- Onion powder (1/4 teaspoon): Provides a gentle savory lift, rounding out the seasoning.
- Thick-cut pork chops (4, bone-in or boneless): These are the star proteins, lending tenderness and juiciness for a satisfying bite.
- Lipton Onion Soup & Dip Mix (1 packet, 1 ounce): A secret weapon seasoning that delivers a burst of flavor to the pork chops, making them irresistibly tasty.
How to Make Pork Chops and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grab a 9 x 13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spray of cooking oil. This small step helps everything release easily after baking, so nothing sticks or gets messy.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Rice Base
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, uncooked rice, garlic powder, dried chives, and onion powder until smooth and well combined. This mixture is the heart of your casserole and ensures that every grain of rice cooks up infused with comforting flavors. Pour it evenly into your prepared dish, creating a lovely base for the pork chops.
Step 3: Arrange and Season the Pork Chops
Dry the pork chops with paper towels to help them brown and cook evenly. Place them nicely spaced on top of the rice mixture. Then, sprinkle the entire packet of Lipton Onion Soup & Dip Mix (or your chosen seasoning) evenly over the chops. If you prefer a lighter seasoning or want less salt, you can always use half the packet—it still tastes amazing either way.
Step 4: Bake Covered
Cover your casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil to lock in moisture. Bake for about 30 minutes in the preheated oven. This helps the pork chops gently cook through while keeping the rice moist. Use a meat thermometer to check that the pork has reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once done, remove the chops, cover them with foil to rest, and get ready for the next step.
Step 5: Finish the Rice
Stir the rice mixture a bit to blend the flavors further, then cover and return the dish to the oven for another 25-30 minutes. By the end, the rice will be tender, fluffy, and perfectly cooked, having absorbed all the delicious broth and seasonings. This final bake ensures your casserole has the right texture to complement the pork chops.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Fluff the rice gently with a fork, and plate it alongside the pork chops. This brings together a comforting and delicious meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
How to Serve Pork Chops and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a burst of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens the creamy casserole. Finishing with a touch of greenery makes the plate look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This dish stands tall on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp steamed vegetables like green beans or roasted carrots for added crunch and vibrant contrast. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette also complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this casserole family-style straight from the baking dish for a cozy, communal feel. For a bit of elegance, plate individual servings and drizzle a balsamic glaze or a spoonful of sautéed mushrooms over the top for an earthy twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Pork Chops and Rice Casserole Recipe, let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they will keep well for up to 3-4 days, making easy lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This casserole freezes great! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to two months. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently for a quick and comforting meal.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers either in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through. If the rice seems dry, adding a splash of beef broth or water before heating helps bring back the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Absolutely! Both bone-in or boneless pork chops work well here. Boneless chops may cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
Is it possible to substitute the cream of mushroom soup?
Yes, you can substitute with cream of chicken soup or make a homemade mushroom sauce if you prefer. Each will bring a slightly different flavor but will still make the casserole delicious.
Can I make this dish vegetarian or substitute pork chops?
If you want a vegetarian version, swap the pork chops for thick slices of grilled portobello mushrooms or eggplant and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. While it won’t be the original Pork Chops and Rice Casserole Recipe, it’ll still be tasty!
What is the best way to ensure the rice cooks perfectly?
Using long-grain white rice and covering the casserole tightly during baking helps the rice absorb liquid evenly. Stirring once midway through cooking also redistributes moisture, ensuring the rice finishes tender without being mushy.
Can I add extra vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to fold in diced carrots, peas, or mushrooms to the rice mixture before baking. Just keep in mind that adding extra veggies might require a few more minutes of cooking time.
Final Thoughts
This Pork Chops and Rice Casserole Recipe is a wonderful combination of ease and comfort that invites you back for seconds—maybe even thirds! It’s like a warm hug baked into a dish, perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself after a long day. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe soon; it will quickly earn a special spot on your recipe rotation thanks to its reliability, flavor, and heartwarming appeal.
Print
Pork Chops and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Pork Chops and Rice Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make one-dish meal featuring tender pork chops baked over a creamy, flavorful rice mixture infused with mushroom soup and savory seasonings. Perfect for a family dinner, it combines juicy meat and fluffy, seasoned rice in a convenient casserole.
Ingredients
Casserole Mixture
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried chives
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Meat and Seasoning
- 4 thick-cut pork chops (bone-in or boneless, per preference)
- 1 packet (1 ounce) Lipton Onion Soup & Dip Mix or other seasoning blend
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9 x 13-inch baking dish by applying a light coating of cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Rice Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, uncooked long-grain white rice, garlic powder, dried chives, and onion powder. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and thoroughly blended. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Arrange the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to ensure even cooking. Place them atop the rice mixture in the baking dish, spacing them evenly.
- Season the Pork Chops: Sprinkle the Lipton Onion Soup & Dip Mix (or alternative seasoning) evenly over the pork chops. For a milder onion flavor or reduced sodium, use half of the seasoning packet.
- First Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap moisture, and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 30 minutes. Check the pork chops at this stage, ensuring they have reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If they are fully cooked, remove the pork chops from the baking dish, cover with foil, and set aside to rest.
- Finish Cooking the Rice: Stir the rice mixture to blend flavors. Re-cover the baking dish and return it to the oven. Continue baking for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Serve and Garnish: Once the rice is cooked, fluff it gently with a fork. Serve it alongside the pork chops, garnishing with fresh parsley or basil as desired.
Notes
- For a lower sodium dish, use half the onion soup mix or opt for a low-sodium version.
- Bone-in pork chops tend to stay juicier during baking, but boneless works well too.
- You can add fresh herbs such as parsley or basil as garnish for added color and flavor.
- Make sure the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
- Using a 9 x 13-inch baking dish is ideal for even cooking and adequate depth for the rice mixture.
