Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops

Weeknight meal prep can be super simple with the right recipes and ingredients. We love finding meals that are easy to put together after a busy day of errands, work, and shuffling kids around. This parmesan crusted pork chop is exactly what we’re looking for: simple, tasty, and with just the right amount of effort involved to get a good meal on the table. Let me tell you just how easy it is to make this meal happen.

Pork chops are a great go-to protein; like chicken, they’re fairly bland on their own, but a little seasoning and the right cooking methods help to bring out optimal flavor. One way to pep up pork is to coat it in flavor; in this case, a blend of parmesan cheese and Italian seasonings brings great flavor and texture. I mean, who doesn’t like crispy cheese?! A quick sear in a pan and then the pork chops head over to the oven to finish cooking. The end result is a tender piece of meat covered in a crisp cheesy coating. While the pork bakes, I can turn my attention to taking care of those end-of-the-day odds and ends so that when dinner hits the table, everyone can relax.

There’s nothing too fancy here, just a simple meal with the right combination of ingredients. Weeknight cooking doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming. And cleanup is also easy, so there’s no reason to hunch over the kitchen sink scrubbing pots, pans, and dirty dishes. I like to serve this up with a side salad or maybe some roasted potatoes; keeping sides simple will maintain the simplicity of this meal. Getting good food on the table without too much fuss is a nice way to end a busy day, and this parmesan pork chop is about as simple and delicious as it gets!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a true weeknight hero! It’s quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a deliciously satisfying meal. The parmesan crust adds a crispy texture and rich flavor, making these pork chops a family favorite. Plus, the combination of cheese and Italian seasoning is irresistible!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Glass baking dish
• Shallow bowl
• Skillet
• Cooking spray
• Spatula

Ingredients

• 4 boneless pork chops
• ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons Italian bread crumbs
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 pinch paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Coat a glass baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Drizzle the pork chops with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring both sides are coated.
3. In a shallow bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, garlic powder, paprika, parsley, and pepper.
4. Dredge the pork chops in the Parmesan mixture until they are completely coated.
5. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the pork chops for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
6. Place the pork chops into the prepared baking dish and cook in the oven for 25-30 minutes, adjusting the time for thicker chops.

Tips for Success

For the best results, make sure your skillet is hot enough to achieve a nice sear on the pork chops before transferring them to the oven. This helps lock in the juices and enhances the flavor. Also, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a more pronounced taste.

Additional Tips or Variations

If you want to switch things up, try adding a bit of lemon zest to the Parmesan mixture for a citrusy twist. You can also experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This dish is a good source of protein and calcium, thanks to the pork and Parmesan cheese. It’s also relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those looking to reduce their carb intake.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use bone-in pork chops? Yes, bone-in pork chops work well too. Just adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer to cook through.

Can I make these pork chops ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the Parmesan mixture and coat the pork chops a few hours in advance. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Conclusion

There you have it—a simple, delicious, and satisfying recipe for Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner. I hope you give it a try and enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite. Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists you add to the recipe. Happy cooking!