Perfectly Crispy: Parmesan Baked Pork Chops

If you’re craving a delicious and satisfying meal that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor, look no further than our Parmesan Baked Pork Chops recipe. These succulent pork chops are coated in a crispy Parmesan breadcrumb mixture and baked to perfection. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Join us as we explore the steps to creating this mouthwatering meal, along with helpful tips, variations, and answers to your frequently asked questions.

Ingredients:

4 boneless pork chops
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 egg, beaten

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
Prepare the Pork Chops:
- In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Dip each pork chop into the beaten egg, ensuring it is evenly coated on both sides.
Coat with Breadcrumb Mixture:
- Press each egg-coated pork chop into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure to coat it thoroughly on all sides. Gently shake off any excess breadcrumbs.
Arrange in the Baking Dish:
- Place the coated pork chops in the prepared baking dish, leaving space between each chop to ensure even cooking.
Drizzle with Olive Oil:
- Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the top of the pork chops. This will help them brown and crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Bake to Perfection:
- Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake the pork chops for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve hot with your favorite side dishes.

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

Thicker Pork Chops: If using thicker pork chops, you may need to adjust the baking time to ensure they cook through evenly. Increase the baking time by a few minutes, if necessary, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Crispy Coating: For extra crispy pork chops, you can use panko breadcrumbs instead of Italian breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs have a coarser texture and tend to create a crunchier coating.
Flavor Enhancements: Feel free to customize the seasoning blend to suit your taste preferences. Add ingredients like onion powder, smoked paprika, or dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary for added flavor complexity.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless? A: Yes, bone-in pork chops can be used for this recipe. Keep in mind that bone-in chops may require slightly longer cooking time compared to boneless chops.

Q: Can I make these pork chops ahead of time? A: While these pork chops are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, you can prepare the breadcrumb mixture and coat the pork chops in advance. Store the coated pork chops in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Q: Can I freeze leftover pork chops? A: Yes, leftover pork chops can be stored in an airtight container or freezer bag and frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

Substitute almond flour or crushed pork rinds for the breadcrumbs to make the coating keto-friendly.
Use a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia in place of the breadcrumbs for a low-carb option.
Adjust the seasoning blend to avoid any added sugars or high-carb ingredients.

Low-Carb Version:

Follow the keto version instructions, adjusting ingredients to fit your specific low-carb dietary needs.
Be mindful of the carb content in the Parmesan cheese and any other ingredients used for coating the pork chops.

In conclusion, our Parmesan Baked Pork Chops recipe offers a simple yet delicious way to enjoy tender and flavorful pork chops. With a crispy Parmesan breadcrumb coating and a hint of savory spices, these pork chops are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your family and friends. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle or simply looking for a tasty dinner option, these baked pork chops are a winning choice. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to savor every bite of these irresistible Parmesan Baked Pork Chops!