Parmesan Baked Pork Chops Recipe

Parmesan Baked Pork Chops are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines tender pork chops with a flavorful Parmesan cheese coating, creating a crispy and savory dish that’s sure to be a hit. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, instructions, and tips for making the perfect Parmesan Baked Pork Chops. Additionally, we’ll provide variations and address frequently asked questions to ensure you achieve the best results.

Ingredients

For the Parmesan Baked Pork Chops:

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 4 (6 oz) center-cut loin chops
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

Step 2: Season the Pork Chops

1. Combine Mustard and Oil: In a small bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard and extra virgin olive oil until well combined.
2. Season Pork Chops: Brush the Dijon mustard mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste.

Step 3: Coat with Parmesan Cheese

1. Add Parmesan Cheese: Place the shredded Parmesan cheese on a plate. Press each pork chop into the Parmesan cheese, coating both sides evenly.

Step 4: Bake the Pork Chops

1. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated pork chops on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the cheese is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Step 5: Serve

1. Rest Pork Chops: Allow the pork chops to rest for a few minutes before serving.
2. Serve: Serve the Parmesan Baked Pork Chops hot, with your favorite sides. Enjoy!

Cooking Notes and Variations

Cooking Notes

• Pork Chops: Use center-cut loin chops for the best texture and flavor. Thicker chops may require a longer baking time.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly shredded Parmesan cheese works best for this recipe, but you can use pre-shredded if necessary.

Variations

1. Herb Variation: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
2. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Dijon mustard mixture for a spicy version.
3. Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the Parmesan cheese for a fresh, zesty flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the pork chops and coat them with the Parmesan cheese mixture ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Q2: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q3: Can I freeze this dish?

A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked pork chops. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q4: What can I serve with Parmesan Baked Pork Chops?

A: These pork chops pair well with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh green salad.

Q5: Can I use a different type of cheese?

A: While Parmesan is recommended for its flavor and crispiness, you can try using other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago.

Parmesan Baked Pork Chops are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any meal. With their crispy Parmesan coating and tender, juicy meat, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. Follow these simple steps and tips to create a tasty and satisfying dish that everyone will love. Serve these delightful pork chops with your favorite sides for a complete and hearty meal!

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a comforting family meal, or a special dish to share with friends, this Parmesan Baked Pork Chops recipe is an excellent choice. Enjoy the rich flavors and the ease of preparation, and feel free to experiment with different variations to make this recipe your own.