Creating this incredible casserole is simple, especially if you follow these easy-to-understand steps:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for your casserole.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops: Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Sear the Chops: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned pork chops and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. Layer Potatoes and Onions: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes and half of the sliced onions at the bottom.
5. Add Seasonings: In a bowl, mix the heavy cream with the garlic powder and onion powder. Pour half of the mixture over the layered potatoes and onions.
6. Add Cheese: Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the cream mixture.
7. Repeat Layers: Add the remaining potatoes and onions, pour the rest of the cream mixture, and finish with the remaining cheese.
8. Add Broth: Carefully pour the chicken broth around the edges of the baking dish, ensuring it doesn’t disturb your layered masterpiece.
9. Return the Pork Chops: Nestle the seared pork chops on top of the potato layers.
10. Cover and Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
11. Uncover and Continue Baking: After 40 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
12. Garnish: Once completed, remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

By meticulously following these steps, you’ll be rewarded with a mouthwatering Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole.