Parmesan Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients:
4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a small bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
Brush each pork chop with olive oil, making sure to coat both sides evenly.
Dredge the pork chops in the Parmesan mixture, pressing the mixture onto the meat to ensure it sticks well.
Place the pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the coating is golden and crispy.
Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Enjoy these crispy, flavorful Parmesan Baked Pork Chops as a hearty main dish! They pair perfectly with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Serving Suggestions:
These Parmesan Baked Pork Chops are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:
Roasted Vegetables: Pair the pork chops with a medley of roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts. The roasted veggies add a nice balance of flavors and textures.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side that complements the crispy texture of the pork chops. You can also try garlic mashed potatoes for an extra flavor boost.
Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a light and refreshing side that balances the richness of the pork chops. Consider adding ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado for added flavor and texture.
Pasta: A simple pasta dish, such as spaghetti aglio e olio or buttered noodles, works well with these pork chops. The pasta can help soak up any juices from the meat.
Rice Pilaf: A savory rice pilaf with herbs and toasted nuts can be a delicious and elegant side dish that complements the flavors of the Parmesan crust.
Variations:
If you’d like to customize or change up the recipe, here are a few variations you can try:
Herb-Crusted: Add more fresh herbs like rosemary, basil, or parsley to the breadcrumb mixture for an herbaceous twist.
Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
Mustard Coating: Brush the pork chops with Dijon mustard before coating them in the Parmesan mixture. This adds a tangy flavor that pairs well with the cheese.
Italian-Inspired: Use Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs instead of plain for a more robust, Italian flavor. You can also add a tablespoon of finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the coating mixture for extra flavor.
Cheese Variations: Try using Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese in place of Parmesan for a different cheesy flavor. Each cheese brings its own unique taste to the dish.
Storage and Reheating:
If you have leftovers, store the pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Reheating in the oven helps maintain the crispiness of the coating.
Tips for Success:
Avoid Overcooking: Pork chops can dry out if overcooked, so be sure to check their internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The ideal temperature for juicy pork chops is 145°F (63°C).
Let Them Rest: Allow the pork chops to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making them more tender and flavorful.
Even Coating: Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the pork chops to ensure an even, crispy coating. You can also lightly spray the tops with cooking oil spray before baking for extra crispiness.
Enjoy your Parmesan Baked Pork Chops! This recipe is sure to become a family favorite, thanks to its delicious flavor and satisfying crunch. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress.