Crispy Parmesan Baked Pork Chops – A Quick Weeknight Dinner Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating juicy baked pork chops with a garlic Parmesan crust is surprisingly simple and quick. This section walks you through each step, ensuring your pork chops turn out golden and crispy every time.

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the coating mixture
   In a shallow bowl, combine the following:

   • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

   • ½ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs

   • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

   • 1 teaspoon paprika

   • ½ teaspoon salt

   • ½ teaspoon black pepper

   Stir well until evenly mixed. This flavorful blend gives your chops a crispy texture and deep umami flavor. For more on how breadcrumbs contribute to texture, visit the Wikipedia article on breadcrumbs.

3. Brush the pork chops with olive oil
   Pat your pork chops dry with paper towels to remove surface moisture. Then, brush each chop with olive oil on both sides. This step helps the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture stick and aids in creating a golden crust during baking.

4. Coat the pork chops
   Press each chop into the coating mixture, ensuring both sides are fully covered. Gently press down to help the crust adhere well.

5. Arrange on baking sheet
   Place the coated pork chops on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave space between each one to allow for even cooking and proper airflow.

6. Bake in the oven
   Bake the pork chops for 25–30 minutes, depending on their thickness. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. Learn how to check doneness accurately using a meat thermometer.

7. Optional: Broil for extra crispiness
   For an extra crispy crust, turn on the broiler during the last 2–3 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.

8. Rest the pork chops
   After baking, let the chops rest for 3–5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.

Once you’ve followed these steps, you’ll have crispy, golden pork chops that are juicy on the inside with a savory, cheesy crust on the outside. For serving ideas, check out Pinterest boards filled with quick weeknight meals and family dinner ideas.

Pro Tips for Crispy, Juicy Pork Chops

Perfecting crispy Parmesan baked pork chops comes down to technique. Use these expert tips to make sure your chops are flavorful, tender, and never dry:

• Let pork chops come to room temperature before baking. This promotes even cooking and reduces the chance of tough meat.

• Pat chops completely dry before coating them. Removing moisture helps the crust stay crispy.

• Use grated Parmesan, not shredded. Grated cheese blends better with breadcrumbs and sticks to the meat more easily.

• Don’t skip the olive oil. It creates a crisp, golden crust and helps the seasoning adhere.

• Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Chops need airflow to crisp up, not steam.

• Use a meat thermometer. Don’t guess. Bake until the internal temp hits 145°F. Overcooking leads to dryness.

By keeping these points in mind, your juicy baked pork chops with garlic Parmesan crust will come out perfect every time. These tips also apply to other crusted meats like chicken, so they’re useful beyond this recipe.

Variations of the Recipe

This recipe is easily customizable. Whether you have dietary preferences or want to spice things up, these variations offer inspiration:

• Herb-enhanced version: Add dried oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture for an Italian herb flavor.

• Spicy twist: Include cayenne pepper or crushed red chili flakes to bring heat.

• Low-carb/Keto version: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds. Keep the Parmesan for flavor and texture.

• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.

• Air fryer method: Cook at 375°F for 14–16 minutes, flipping halfway. Air frying gives a great crispy texture while reducing oil.

For more creative crust ideas, check out Parmesan crust recipes on Pinterest. You can find endless inspiration to switch up seasonings and coating styles without changing the core simplicity of this dish.

Perfect Side Dishes to Serve With Parmesan Pork Chops

Pairing the right side dishes with your crispy baked pork chops makes the meal complete. Here are some crowd-pleasing options:

• Roasted vegetables: Brussels sprouts, carrots, green beans, or asparagus roasted with olive oil and garlic.

• Mashed potatoes or mashed cauliflower: Creamy sides balance the crunchy texture of the chops.

• Rice pilaf or buttered noodles: Easy, mild sides that complement the bold flavors of the crust.

• Simple salad: A crisp Caesar or garden salad with vinaigrette adds freshness.

• Mac and cheese: For a comfort food pairing, serve with creamy baked macaroni.

If you’re planning a full meal, Pinterest is a great resource to explore more family dinner ideas that pair beautifully with pork.

Storing & Reheating Leftovers

Leftover Parmesan baked pork chops reheat well if stored correctly. Here’s how to keep them tasty:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Wrap each chop individually in foil or freezer-safe bags. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating tips:

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 10–15 minutes. Place on a wire rack for best crispness.

• Air fryer: Heat at 350°F for 5–6 minutes.

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, but note the crust may lose crispiness.

Avoid sogginess by skipping the microwave when possible. Instead, the oven or air fryer keeps that crispy crust intact.

Nutrition Information

Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (1 pork chop):

• Calories: ~320

• Protein: 30g

• Fat: 18g

• Carbs: 8g

• Fiber: <1g

This recipe is high in protein and relatively low in carbs, especially if using a low-carb breadcrumb alternative. It’s also a good source of calcium from the Parmesan cheese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes can go wrong. Here are common errors and how to prevent them:

• Using thick pork chops without adjusting time: Thicker cuts need longer baking or higher temp to cook through.

• Skipping the oil step: Without oil, the crust won’t stick or brown properly.

• Not drying the meat: Excess moisture leads to a soggy coating.

• Crowding the pan: Avoid placing chops too close; space allows airflow for crisping.

• Overbaking: The most common mistake. Always use a thermometer to prevent dry, overcooked pork.

Avoiding these mistakes ensures your garlic Parmesan crusted pork chops come out crisp and flavorful every time.

FAQs – People Also Ask

What is the secret to juicy pork chops?
The key is not to overcook. Pork chops are done at an internal temperature of 145°F. Letting them rest after baking helps retain juices.

How do I get a crispy crust on baked pork chops?
Use grated Parmesan and seasoned breadcrumbs, press the coating on firmly, and bake in a hot oven. Brushing with olive oil is essential for browning.

Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe?
Yes. Bone-in chops work well and often stay juicier. You may need to increase the baking time slightly.

What temperature should pork chops be cooked to?
Pork is safe to eat at 145°F (63°C), according to USDA guidelines. Use a meat thermometer to avoid guesswork.

Can I make this ahead of time and bake later?
Yes. You can coat the chops and refrigerate them up to 4 hours ahead. Let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking.

How do I make pork chops without them drying out?
Avoid overcooking, use a thermometer, and rest the meat before serving. Oil also helps seal in moisture.

What’s a good substitute for breadcrumbs?
Try almond flour, crushed pork rinds, or gluten-free breadcrumbs. For inspiration, check out Pinterest’s baked pork chop recipes.

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