Baked Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops Recipe

If you’re in search of a delicious and easy-to-make dinner option, look no further than this mouthwatering Baked Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops recipe. Bursting with flavor, tender pork chops are coated in a golden, cheesy crust infused with the aromatic combination of garlic and Parmesan. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a satisfying and impressive meal on the table in no time. So gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a truly delectable dish that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Baked Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops, you will need the following ingredients:

Pork Chops

Start by gathering bone-in pork chops. Bone-in chops are preferred as they add extra flavor and moisture to the dish. Aim for about 1-inch thickness for the pork chops.

Garlic

Garlic is a key ingredient in this recipe, providing a wonderful aromatic flavor to the pork chops. You will need to finely mince or crush several cloves of fresh garlic.

Parmesan Cheese

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is a must for this recipe. The nutty and salty flavor of Parmesan perfectly complements the pork chops. Use a high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best results.

Breadcrumbs

Breadcrumbs provide a crispy coating to the pork chops. You can use regular breadcrumbs or Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor.

Italian Seasoning

Italian seasoning is a blend of dried herbs such as basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. It adds a delicious Italian twist to the pork chops.

Salt and Black Pepper

Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning the pork chops. Be sure to season both sides of the chops generously to enhance the flavors.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is used to coat the baking dish and to drizzle over the pork chops, adding moisture and ensuring a crispy exterior.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for making these mouthwatering Baked Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops.

Preheat the oven

First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the pork chops cook evenly and to perfection.

Prepare the pork chops

Take the bone-in pork chops and pat them dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior on the chops. Removing excess moisture ensures proper browning.

Season the pork chops

Now it’s time to season the pork chops. Sprinkle both sides generously with salt and black pepper, rubbing the seasoning into the meat. This will add flavor and enhance the taste of the chops.

Prepare the coating

In a bowl, combine the finely grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Mix well to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Coat the pork chops

Take each seasoned pork chop and coat it in the Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well. Make sure to coat both sides of the pork chops thoroughly for a crispy and flavorful coating.

Bake the pork chops

Place the coated pork chops on a greased baking sheet or in a greased baking dish. Drizzle olive oil over the chops, allowing it to evenly distribute and provide moisture. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This will ensure that the pork chops are cooked through and tender.

Serve and enjoy

Once the pork chops are cooked, remove them from the oven. Allow them to rest for a few minutes to let the juices redistribute and the flavors settle. Serve your Baked Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. Enjoy the juicy, flavorful pork chops with the delightful garlic and Parmesan coating.

Tips for Success

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Baked Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops turn out perfectly every time:

Choose bone-in pork chops

Opt for bone-in pork chops for added flavor and juiciness. The bone helps retain moisture during cooking and enhances the overall taste.

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Invest in a good-quality block of Parmesan cheese and grate it freshly for the recipe. This will provide the best flavor and ensure a smooth coating on the pork chops.

Don’t overcook the pork chops

It’s essential to cook the pork chops to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Overcooking can result in dry and tough chops. Use a meat thermometer to accurately gauge the doneness.

Let the pork chops rest before serving

Once you’ve removed the pork chops from the oven, give them a few minutes to rest on a warm plate. This allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to become even more tender. Patience is rewarded with a more flavorful and juicy pork chop.

Variations

Looking to switch things up? Here are a few delicious variations on the classic Baked Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops recipe:

Monterey Jack and Jalapeno Pork Chops

For a spicy twist, try adding slices of Monterey Jack cheese and jalapeno peppers on top of the pork chops during the last few minutes of baking. The combination of melted cheese and spicy peppers adds a zesty kick to the dish.

Herb Crusted Pork Chops

Instead of using Italian seasoning, create a herb crust by mixing together fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley. This variation adds an earthy and aromatic flavor profile to the pork chops.

Honey Mustar Pork Chops

For a sweet and tangy flavor, combine honey and Dijon mustard to create a glaze for the pork chops. Brush the chops before baking and drizzle with the glaze again during the last few minutes of cooking. This variation balances the savory flavors with a touch of sweetness.

FAQs

Can I use boneless pork chops?

While bone-in pork chops are recommended for this recipe, you can certainly use boneless pork chops if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that boneless chops may cook a bit faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I use other cheeses instead of Parmesan?

While Parmesan cheese is the traditional choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other cheeses based on your personal preference. Gruyere, Romano, or even a blend of different cheeses can work well and add their own unique flavors.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Just ensure that all other ingredients used are also gluten-free.