Parmesan Baked Pork Chops are the perfect choice! These pork chops are coated in a crispy Parmesan breadcrumb crust, offering a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Easy to prepare, this dish is a quick and satisfying option for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love Parmesan Baked Pork Chops
- Crispy and Golden: The Parmesan and breadcrumb coating creates a satisfying crunch with every bite.
- Tender and Juicy: The pork chops remain tender on the inside while achieving a perfect golden crust on the outside.
- Flavor Packed: The rich flavor of Parmesan cheese combined with herbs and seasonings makes these pork chops irresistible.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and only a few ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (1-inch thick)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step helps the coating stick better and ensures crispy results. Brush both sides of the pork chops with olive oil.
3. Prepare the Parmesan Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
4. Coat the Pork Chops: Dredge each pork chop in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to make sure the coating sticks well to both sides. Place the coated pork chops on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake: Drizzle the melted butter over the pork chops to add extra flavor and richness. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve: Once baked, remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Tips for Perfect Parmesan Baked Pork Chops
- Bone-In vs. Boneless: Bone-in pork chops will take slightly longer to cook, but they tend to be juicier. Boneless pork chops cook faster and are easier to eat.
- Cheese Options: For an extra depth of flavor, try mixing in some mozzarella or cheddar cheese with the Parmesan.
- Add a Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy twist.
Conclusion
These Parmesan Baked Pork Chops are a great way to elevate a simple pork chop into a flavorful, crispy, and juicy meal that everyone will love. Whether served alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad, they’re sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Try them tonight and enjoy a wholesome, satisfying dinner with minimal effort!
