This dish combines tender pork chops with a colorful mix of baby potatoes, all seasoned and baked to perfection. The crispy Parmesan breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch, while the juicy pork chops provide a hearty protein. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing this flavorful and visually appealing meal.
Ingredients:
- 6 boneless pork chops: Choose pork chops of even thickness for consistent cooking.
- 4 cups baby potatoes, cut in half: Use a mix of colored baby potatoes for a vibrant presentation.
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor and helps create a crispy topping.
- ½ cup butter, melted: Provides richness and helps the breadcrumbs crisp up.
- ¾ cup breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for coating.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Enhances the flavor of the breadcrumbs with herbs and spices.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to cook the pork chops and adds flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and seasoning.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Season the Potatoes:
- Place the halved baby potatoes in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to coat the potatoes evenly.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet:
- Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until they start to become tender.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
- Mix the Topping:
- In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, shredded Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.
- Season the Pork Chops:
- Season both sides of each pork chop with salt and pepper.
- Coat the Pork Chops:
- Press each pork chop into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly. Place the coated pork chops on a separate plate or tray.
3. Combine and Bake:
- Add Pork Chops to Potatoes:
- After the potatoes have baked for 20 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Arrange the coated pork chops on top of the partially cooked potatoes.
- Bake:
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the potatoes are tender. The breadcrumbs should be golden and crispy.
- Rest:
- Allow the pork chops to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat moist.
4. Serve:
- Garnish (Optional): Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a burst of color and added flavor.
- Presentation: Serve the pork chops alongside the colorful potatoes for a visually appealing and delicious meal.
Tips for Success:
- Even Cooking: Ensure that the pork chops and potatoes are arranged in a single layer to promote even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.
- Pork Chop Thickness: If your pork chops are particularly thick, you may need to adjust the baking time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked to the proper temperature.
- Breadcrumb Coating: For extra crunch, you can add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan directly to the breadcrumb mixture.
FAQs:
- Can I use bone-in pork chops? Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops. Just adjust the cooking time as bone-in chops may take a bit longer to cook through.
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? While it’s best to cook and serve this dish fresh, you can prepare the potatoes and pork chops ahead of time. Assemble everything and refrigerate until ready to bake, then add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Can I use other vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers. Just be sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
- What can I serve with this dish? This meal pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of garlic bread for a complete dinner.
Multi-Colored Potatoes with Pork Chops offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The crispy, Parmesan-coated pork chops paired with tender, seasoned potatoes create a hearty and satisfying meal. With easy preparation and minimal cleanup, this dish is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy the vibrant colors and delicious flavors of this comforting recipe!