Parmesan Baked Pork Chops Recipe

Parmesan Baked Pork Chops are a simple yet delicious dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. These juicy pork chops are coated in a flavorful Parmesan crust and baked to perfection. The result is a tender, juicy chop with a crispy, cheesy crust that the whole family will love.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Tips & Notes
• Variations
• FAQs
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. In a separate shallow dish, whisk the egg until well beaten.

Step 3: Coat the Pork Chops

1. Dip each pork chop into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off.
2. Press each pork chop into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly. Press gently to ensure the coating adheres well.

Step 4: Bake the Pork Chops

1. Place the coated pork chops on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the pork chops to help them crisp up during baking.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the coating is golden and crispy.
4. Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve the Parmesan Baked Pork Chops warm with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Cooking Tips & Notes

• Pork Chop Thickness: Use pork chops that are about 1 inch thick for even cooking and juicy results.
• Crisping the Coating: Drizzling olive oil over the top of the pork chops helps the coating crisp up nicely in the oven.
• Resting Time: Letting the pork chops rest for a few minutes after baking helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.

Variations

• Spicy Parmesan Pork Chops: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herb-Crusted Pork Chops: Add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
• Lemon Parmesan Pork Chops: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the breadcrumb mixture for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Air Fryer Parmesan Pork Chops: Cook the coated pork chops in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a crispy and quick alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops?

Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops for this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as bone-in chops may take a bit longer to cook through.

2. How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?

Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

3. Can I Use a Different Cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or another hard cheese for a slightly different flavor.

4. Can I Make These Pork Chops Gluten-Free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of regular breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.

Parmesan Baked Pork Chops are an easy and delicious way to enjoy a classic dinner with minimal effort. The juicy pork chops with their crispy, cheesy crust are sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these Parmesan-crusted pork chops are a flavorful and satisfying dish that everyone will love. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the simple, comforting flavors of this classic meal!