Baked Parmesan Pork Chops Recipe
These Baked Parmesan Pork Chops are crispy, cheesy, and flavorful—perfect for a comforting dinner without all the mess of frying. The Parmesan and breadcrumb coating gives the pork chops a delicious golden crust, while the pork inside stays juicy and tender. Here’s how you can make them!
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (preferably freshly grated)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko breadcrumbs work well for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or dried basil and oregano)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will help create a crispy, golden-brown crust on the pork chops.
Step 2: Prepare the Pork Chops
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. This ensures the coating sticks better.
- Season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Make the Parmesan Coating
- In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Stir the mixture until everything is evenly combined.
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Wash
- In another shallow bowl, beat the egg. This will be used to coat the pork chops before dredging them in the breadcrumb mixture.
Step 5: Coat the Pork Chops
- Dip each pork chop into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s coated on both sides.
- Then, dredge the egg-coated pork chop in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to make sure the coating sticks evenly on both sides.
Step 6: Bake the Pork Chops
- Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil or melted butter, or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- Place the coated pork chops on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle a little olive oil or melted butter over the top of the pork chops to help them brown and crisp up during baking.
- Bake the pork chops in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), and the crust is golden and crispy. If using bone-in pork chops, they may need an extra 5-10 minutes of baking time.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
- Once the pork chops are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these Baked Parmesan Pork Chops with your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a simple green salad, or a side of rice.
- They pair well with a garlic butter sauce or a lemon wedge for an extra burst of flavor.
Why This Recipe Works:
- Crispy, Cheesy Crust: The combination of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs creates a satisfying, crispy crust that’s packed with flavor, while the pork stays juicy and tender inside.
- Simple and Quick: These baked pork chops are easy to make and require minimal prep, making them perfect for a weeknight meal.
- Healthy Alternative: Baking instead of frying helps reduce the fat and calories while still giving you that delicious crispy texture.
Tips for Perfect Baked Parmesan Pork Chops:
- For Extra Crispiness: If you want an extra crispy coating, try broiling the pork chops for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
- Bone-In vs. Boneless: Bone-in pork chops can take slightly longer to cook, so be sure to check the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor in the breadcrumb mixture.
Enjoy these Baked Parmesan Pork Chops as a quick and delicious dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite!