Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this pork chop noodle casserole will become a family favorite.
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Only 4 ingredients. Pork chops, noodles, soup, milk.
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Simple technique. Boil, mix, layer, bake.
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One pan. Minimal cleanup.
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Crowd-pleasing. Creamy, savory, and satisfying.
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Budget-friendly. Pork chops and noodles are inexpensive.
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Great for leftovers. Tastes even better the next day.
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Perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Servings: 4
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4 bone-in pork chops (about 3/4 to 1 inch thick)
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12 oz wide egg noodles (about 3/4 of a 16 oz bag)
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2 cans (10.5 oz each) condensed cream of mushroom soup
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1 cup whole milk (or 2% milk)
Ingredient Notes
Bone-in pork chops: Bone-in chops add flavor and stay moist during baking. Look for chops about 3/4 to 1 inch thick. Boneless chops can be substituted but may dry out more easily.
Wide egg noodles: Use wide, ribbon-style egg noodles. They hold their shape during baking and have enough surface area to catch the creamy sauce. Cook them about 2 minutes less than the package directions. They will finish cooking in the oven.
Condensed cream of mushroom soup: Use the standard 10.5-ounce cans. Do not add water. The condensed soup is meant to be used as is. Cream of chicken or cream of celery soup can be substituted.
Whole milk: Whole milk creates the creamiest sauce. Reduced-fat milk will work but the sauce will be thinner. Do not use skim milk.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Set a rack in the center of the oven. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch foil pan or line it with heavy-duty aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook for about 2 minutes less than the package directions for al dente. You want them just barely tender since they will continue cooking in the oven. Drain well.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a large bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup and the milk until smooth and creamy. This is your simple sauce base.
Step 4: Combine Noodles and Sauce
Add the drained egg noodles to the bowl with the soup mixture. Gently toss until all the noodles are well coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Layer in the Pan
Pour the creamy noodle mixture into the prepared foil pan and spread it out into an even layer. Make sure the noodles are mostly submerged in sauce so they do not dry out.
Step 6: Prepare the Pork Chops
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides lightly with salt and pepper if desired. Lay the pork chops in a single layer directly on top of the noodles, spacing them evenly so each serving gets a chop.
Step 7: Cover and Bake
Cover the foil pan tightly with aluminum foil, crimping the edges so steam stays inside. This helps the pork chops turn out tender and keeps the noodles creamy. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
Step 8: Uncover and Finish Baking
Carefully remove the foil, watching for hot steam. Return the pan to the oven, uncovered. Continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes. The casserole is ready when the pork chops are cooked through and the noodles are bubbly around the edges. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of a pork chop should read at least 145°F (63°C).
Step 9: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest on the counter for about 5 to 10 minutes. This short rest helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes it easier to lift out a pork chop with a generous scoop of creamy noodles underneath. Serve hot.
How to Serve Pork Chop Noodle Casserole
This creamy, savory casserole is delicious on its own, but a few simple sides can round it out.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness.
With Roasted Vegetables: Roasted green beans, carrots, or broccoli add color and balance.
With Crusty Bread: A loaf of crusty bread is perfect for sopping up extra sauce.
With Applesauce: A side of applesauce balances the savory flavors.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives.
Variations & Tips
Make It With Boneless Pork Chops: Use boneless chops. Reduce the bake time slightly and check the temperature early.
Make It With Chicken: Substitute bone-in or boneless chicken thighs.
Make It With Different Noodles: Use penne, rotini, or shells instead of egg noodles.
Make It With Different Soup: Use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup.
Make It With Onion: Add 1 sliced onion to the noodle layer.
Make It With Mushrooms: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the noodle layer.
Make It With Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the top during the last 10 minutes.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and gluten-free noodles.
Make It in a Slow Cooker: Layer ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Cook the noodles 2 minutes less than al dente. They will finish cooking in the oven.
Pat the pork chops dry. This helps them brown and cook evenly.
Cover tightly with foil. This traps the steam that cooks the pork chops and keeps the noodles creamy.
Let the casserole rest before serving. The 5 to 10 minute rest allows the sauce to thicken.
Use a 9×13-inch pan. This size is perfect for the proportions.
Season the pork chops lightly. The soup provides plenty of salt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes. Boneless chops will cook faster. Check the temperature early.
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Chicken thighs or breasts can be substituted.
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes. Penne, rotini, or shells can be used.
Can I use a different soup?
Yes. Cream of chicken or cream of celery soup can be substituted.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed, adding 10 to 15 minutes to the bake time.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes. Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Bake as directed, adding 15 to 20 minutes to the bake time.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my casserole dry?
The noodles were not coated in enough sauce, or the casserole was overcooked. Ensure the noodles are well coated. Do not overbake.
Why is my casserole runny?
The noodles released too much water. Let the casserole rest for 10 to 15 minutes. The sauce will thicken as it cools.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes. Add sautéed mushrooms, onions, or peas.
The Beauty of Simple Casseroles
There is something deeply comforting about a casserole. It is the kind of dish that brings people together. It is the kind of food that makes you feel full and happy. This pork chop noodle casserole is a perfect example.
The pork chops become tender. The noodles soak up the creamy sauce. The mushroom soup creates a rich, savory gravy. Everything cooks together in one pan. The result is a meal that feels like home.
Keep pork chops in your freezer. Keep noodles in your pantry. Keep soup and milk in your pantry and fridge. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes covered, plus 15–20 minutes uncovered
Rest Time: 5–10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings