Transform your usual pork chop dinner into a mouthwatering experience with this easy and flavorful recipe. The key to this dish lies in the seasoned new potatoes, which soak up the rich flavors from the pork chops and spices, creating a satisfying and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 pork chops
- 8-10 new potatoes, sliced in half
- 2 tsp season-all salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Olive oil (for drizzling)
- Foil for covering the pan
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Pork Chops and Potatoes:
- Rinse the pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Slice the new potatoes in half. If the potatoes are larger, you can quarter them for more even cooking.
- Arrange in the Pan:
- Lightly grease a baking pan or dish with olive oil.
- Place the pork chops on either side of the pan, leaving the center empty.
- Lay the sliced potatoes down the middle of the pan between the pork chops.
- Season Everything:
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the pork chops and potatoes.
- Sprinkle the season-all salt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and dried parsley evenly over the pork chops and potatoes.
- Ensure that all pieces are well coated with the seasonings for maximum flavor.
- Cover and Bake:
- Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil. This helps to lock in moisture and flavors.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
- Broil for a Golden Finish:
- After 1 hour, remove the foil from the pan.
- Turn the oven to the broil setting.
- Broil the pork chops and potatoes for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and slightly crispy on top. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- Serve:
- Once broiled to perfection, remove the pan from the oven.
- Let the pork chops and potatoes rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Transfer the pork chops and potatoes to a serving platter, ensuring to scoop up any delicious pan juices to drizzle over the top.
Tips for Success:
- Potato Size: Try to use uniformly sized new potatoes so they cook evenly. Adjust the size of the potato pieces if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can also enhance the flavors.
- Broiling: When broiling, keep a close watch to avoid burning. Broiling times can vary based on your oven and the distance of the food from the broiler element.
Variations:
- Vegetable Additions: Add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or onions to the pan for a more varied and colorful dish.
- Marinade: Marinate the pork chops in your favorite marinade for a few hours before baking for an extra burst of flavor.
- Cheese: Sprinkle a bit of grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese over the potatoes before broiling for a cheesy crust.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 35g
FAQ:
Q: Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe? A: Yes, bone-in pork chops can be used. They may require a slightly longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly.
Q: What other seasonings can I use? A: You can experiment with different seasonings such as cumin, chili powder, or Italian seasoning based on your preference.
Q: How do I know when the pork chops are fully cooked? A: Pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare and season the pork chops and potatoes ahead of time. Store them covered in the refrigerator and bake when ready.
Q: What can I serve with this dish? A: This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of applesauce for a classic combination.
Baked pork chops with seasoned new potatoes is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. The potatoes absorb the rich flavors from the pork and seasonings, making every bite delicious. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, this recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy the hearty flavors and the wonderful aroma that will fill your kitchen as you bake this delightful dish
