Parmesan-Crusted Baked Pork Chops

Introduction

Parmesan-Crusted Baked Pork Chops are a delicious and easy meal that anyone can make. They are juicy, flavorful, and have a crispy, cheesy topping that makes them simply irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for your family or having friends over, these pork chops will impress everyone at the table.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Parmesan-Crusted Baked Pork Chops is a great choice for many reasons. First, the recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any complicated steps. Second, the combination of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs creates a crunchy and tasty crust that pairs perfectly with the tender pork chop. Lastly, it’s a healthy option since it’s baked instead of fried, making it a wonderful addition to your weeknight dinner rotation.

How to Make Parmesan-Crusted Baked Pork Chops

Ingredients:

4 boneless pork chops (1-inch thick)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
In a shallow bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
Brush the pork chops with olive oil on both sides.
Dredge each chop in the Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to coat them well.
Place the coated pork chops on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the crust is golden brown.
Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan cheese.

How to Serve Parmesan-Crusted Baked Pork Chops

Serve these Pork Chops with a side of your favorite vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. They also go well with a light sauce or gravy if you like. Adding a wedge of lemon can give a nice touch of freshness too!

How to Store Parmesan-Crusted Baked Pork Chops

If you have leftovers, let the pork chops cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay good for about 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Tips to Make Parmesan-Crusted Baked Pork Chops

Make sure your pork chops are at room temperature before baking for even cooking.
Feel free to experiment with different spices in the breadcrumb mixture, like Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper for extra heat.
For a more cheesy flavor, you can add more Parmesan cheese to the mixture.

Variation

You can also try this recipe with chicken breast or fish fillets if you want to switch it up. The cooking time may vary slightly, so be sure to check the internal temperature for safety.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops. Just note that they may take a little longer to cook than boneless chops.

2. What temperature should the pork chops reach for safe eating?
Pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

3. Can I freeze leftover pork chops?
Yes, you can freeze leftover pork chops. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and store them in an airtight container. They will last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.

Now you are ready to enjoy delicious Parmesan-Crusted Baked Pork Chops! Happy cooking!