A Southern Comfort Classic: Pork Chops with Mac and Cheese and Braised Greens

Picture this: It’s a chilly evening, and you’re yearning for something that warms the heart as much as it fills the stomach. What could be more comforting than a plate filled with juicy Southern pork chops, creamy mac and cheese, and hearty braised greens? This trio, common to any Southern table, brings together the richness of flavors and textures that define comfort food.

I remember the first time I tasted this dish. It was at my grandmother’s kitchen table in Georgia, where every meal felt like a warm hug. Today, I want to share that experience with you, walking you through each step, ensuring that even the newest cooks feel confident to tackle this beloved Southern meal. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients You'll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • For the Pork Chops:
    • 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
    • 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika
    • 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon of onion powder
    • Salt and black pepper to taste
    • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • For the Mac and Cheese:
    • 8 ounces of elbow macaroni
    • 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
    • 1 cup of whole milk
    • 1/2 cup of cream
    • 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
    • 1/2 teaspoon of mustard powder
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Braised Greens:
    • 1 pound of collard greens, stems removed and leaves chopped
    • 2 slices of bacon, chopped
    • 1 onion, diced
    • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
    • 1 cup of chicken broth
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

With all your ingredients ready, let’s start cooking. Follow these steps for a foolproof meal:

Preparing the Pork Chops

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.

3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork chops.

4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side.

5. Transfer the pork chops to a baking dish and roast in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Making the Mac and Cheese

1. While the pork chops are cooking, bring a pot of salted water to boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, until al dente.

2. Drain the macaroni and return it to the pot. Add butter, milk, cream, and mustard powder, stirring over low heat until the butter is melted.

3. Add the shredded cheese gradually, stirring until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking the Braised Greens

1. In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp.

2. Add the onion and garlic to the bacon, sautéing until the onions are translucent.

3. Add the chopped collard greens and stir until they start to wilt.

4. Pour in the chicken broth, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the greens are tender. Finish by stirring in the apple cider vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving Suggestions

Your Southern pork chops with mac and cheese and braised greens are ready to serve! Plate the pork chops with a hearty scoop of mac and cheese and a generous helping of the braised greens. For an authentic Southern experience, you might enjoy a glass of sweet iced tea or lemonade on the side.

Final Thoughts and Tips for Success

Making this dish might just feel like taking a trip down South. To ensure the best flavor, liberally season your pork chops and let them come to room temperature before cooking. When making the mac and cheese, real quality cheddar makes all the difference. And don’t rush the greens; they get better the longer they cook.

With these tips and a bit of practice, you’ll be whipping up a Southern feast that’s sure to impress. Whether it’s a special family dinner or you’re just treating yourself, this hearty meal will wrap you in warmth and flavor—just like grandma’s cooking. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!