Parmesan Baked Pork Chops

I love Parmesan chicken so when I stumbled upon this recipe, I knew right away that I would like it. I was not disappointed. The parmesan crusted pork chops were delicious and easy to prepare. Best of all, there was no frying involved. The Italian breadcrumbs which consist of different herbs and spices gave the pork chops its flavor. Along with parmesan cheese, pepper and garlic powder, the crust locked in the moisture while the chops were baking. It made the chops tender and moist.  Serve this simple pork chop dish with steamed rice or salad on the side. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Pork Chops

To make sure your Parmesan baked pork chops turn out perfectly every time, start by choosing the right cut of meat. Bone-in pork chops tend to be juicier than boneless, but either option works well. Another important step is to let the chops sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook more evenly. Preheating your oven is crucial too. Aim for 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure a nice crust forms on the outside while keeping the inside tender. When baking, use a wire rack on top of a baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate around the chops, which promotes even cooking. Keep an eye on the internal temperature, aiming for 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Using a meat thermometer can help avoid overcooking, which can dry out the meat. Lastly, let the chops rest for a few minutes after baking. This step allows the juices to redistribute, making them even more flavorful.

Ingredient Notes

The key to a great Parmesan baked pork chop lies in the ingredients you use. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese offers a richer flavor than the pre-packaged kind, which can be drier and less flavorful. For the breadcrumbs, consider using panko for an extra crunch, or try making your own by processing stale bread. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish significantly. If you have fresh parsley, thyme, or oregano on hand, chop them up and mix them into your breadcrumb mixture. Garlic powder adds a nice kick, but feel free to use fresh minced garlic if you prefer a stronger flavor. Don’t forget about seasoning the pork chops themselves. A bit of salt and pepper before applying the crust can make a big difference. Lastly, if you want to keep things interesting, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Parmesan baked pork chops are versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides to create a balanced meal. A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette complements the richness of the pork chops nicely. For something heartier, consider serving them with roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini. The natural sweetness of roasted veggies contrasts beautifully with the savory crust. If you prefer starches, creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy couscous are excellent choices. They soak up any juices, enhancing the overall flavor. A side of applesauce can provide a sweet, tangy contrast that many people enjoy. For a complete meal, think about adding a glass of white wine, like a crisp Pinot Grigio or a light Chardonnay. These wines can enhance the flavors of the dish and make for a lovely dining experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for parmesan cheese?

If you’re out of parmesan, shredded pecorino romano or even asiago can work nicely. Just keep in mind that these cheeses may have a slightly stronger flavor.

How do I store leftover pork chops?

Let the pork chops cool down, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. They should be good in the fridge for about 3-4 days.

Can I make these pork chops ahead of time?

Absolutely, you can prepare the pork chops and coat them in the breadcrumb mixture a few hours ahead. Just cover them and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What sides pair well with parmesan baked pork chops?

These pork chops go great with steamed rice or a fresh salad. Roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes also make for a delicious and hearty meal.

What are common mistakes to avoid when making these pork chops?

One common mistake is not letting the pork chops sit at room temperature before cooking, which can lead to uneven cooking. Also, be careful not to overbake them, as that can dry out the meat.

Parmesan Baked Pork Chops

Liza A

Juicy pork chops coated in crispy Parmesan and Italian breadcrumbs make for a flavor-packed meal that's easy to whip up on any night. You'll love the savory crunch!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 8 servings

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 8 pork chops bone-in or boneless
• 2-3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup parmesan cheese
• 1 cup Italian bread crumbs
• 1 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 350 °F. Line a baking pan with tin foil and spray with cooking spray.
• Combine parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, pepper and garlic powder in a shallow dish. Generously brush each pork chop with olive oil and then coat with cheese mixture. Press the cheese mixture over the pork chops to cover them completely.
• Place pork chops on prepared pan and bake for 40-45 minutes.
• Serve with rice and/ or with salad.
• Enjoy!

Notes

Recipe adapted from Just a Pinch Recipes

Nutrition

Calories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 32gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1g

Keyword baked, comfort food, easy dinner, parmesan, pork chops

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