Introduction
Transform simple pork chops into a restaurant-worthy meal with this easy Parmesan Baked Pork Chops recipe! Crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It’s surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks, and the cleanup is a breeze! Get ready for a delicious and satisfying meal the whole family will love.
Why This Works
This recipe works because it combines the savory richness of pork chops with the salty, satisfying crunch of Parmesan cheese. Baking the chops ensures they’re juicy and tender inside, while the cheese creates a beautiful golden-brown crust. It’s a one-pan wonder, minimizing dishes and maximizing flavor!
Key Ingredients
- 🥩 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 🧀 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 🌿 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🥚 1 large egg, beaten
- 🍞 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 🧂 1 teaspoon salt
- 胡椒 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 🧈 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish.
2️⃣ In a shallow dish, combine the Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3️⃣ In another shallow dish, beat the egg.
4️⃣ Dip each pork chop in the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated.
5️⃣ Then, dredge each egg-coated chop in the Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere the cheese.
6️⃣ Place the coated pork chops in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil.
7️⃣ Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the cheese is golden brown and crispy. A meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chop should read 145°F (63°C).
8️⃣ Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Handy Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the pork chops in Italian dressing for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried parsley.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking dish; this ensures even cooking.
Heat Control
Baking at 400°F (200°C) ensures the pork chops cook through without drying out while also creating a perfectly crispy Parmesan crust. Lowering the temperature might result in longer cooking times and a less crispy topping. Higher temperatures could lead to burning before the inside is cooked.
Crunch Factor
The crunch comes primarily from the Parmesan cheese, which browns beautifully in the oven, creating a satisfyingly crispy crust. The breadcrumbs add an additional layer of texture.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For a richer flavor, use a mix of Parmesan and Romano cheese.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Parmesan mixture for a spicy kick.
- To make cleanup easier, line your baking dish with parchment paper.
Storage Tips
Leftover Parmesan Baked Pork Chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
Gift Packaging Ideas
These pork chops would make a lovely gift! Package individual servings in attractive foil containers tied with ribbon. A handwritten recipe card adds a personal touch.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Lemon Herb: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the Parmesan mixture.
🌟 Garlic Lover’s: Increase the amount of minced garlic to 4 cloves.
🌟 Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
🌟 Italian: Add sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil to the Parmesan mixture.
Troubleshooting
- Dry Pork Chops: If your pork chops are dry, make sure you don’t overcook them. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Soggy Crust: If the crust is soggy, ensure your pork chops are completely dry before dipping them in the egg and Parmesan mixture.
FAQ
- Can I use boneless pork chops? Yes, you can! Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless chops will cook faster.
- Can I freeze these? Yes, you can freeze the cooked pork chops for up to 3 months.
- What sides pair well with this dish? Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad are all excellent choices.
Conclusion
This Parmesan Baked Pork Chops recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! It’s easy to make, delicious to eat, and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and share your culinary creations with us on Ratemyrecipes.com! We can’t wait to see your photos and hear your feedback! Enjoy!
Cheesy Crispy Pork Chops Your Family Will Devour
Deliciously crispy pork chops coated in a cheesy breadcrumb mixture, perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180u00b0C (350u00b0F).
- Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs and cheddar cheese.
- Dredge each pork chop in flour, shaking off the excess, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear each pork chop for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 63u00b0C (145u00b0F).
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips
- For extra crunch, add some crushed cornflakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Let the pork chops rest after baking to keep them juicy.