Of course! Parmesan Baked Pork Chops are a classic, easy, and family-friendly dinner. They come out incredibly juicy and tender on the inside with a flavorful, crispy, cheesy crust on the outside.
Here is a detailed, fail-proof recipe that will become a weeknight favorite.
The Secret to Perfect Parmesan Baked Pork Chops
The key is the coating: a mixture of Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, bound to the chop with a mayonnaise and egg base. This creates a deeply flavorful, crispy crust that locks in the pork’s juices.
Parmesan Baked Pork Chops
This recipe yields tender, juicy pork chops with a golden, crispy Parmesan crust that the whole family will love.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
· 4 boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick (about 1.5 lbs total)
· 1/2 cup mayonnaise
· 1 large egg
· 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
· 1/2 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs (or Panko for extra crunch)
· 1 tsp garlic powder
· 1 tsp paprika (adds color and a subtle smokiness)
· 1/2 tsp onion powder
· 1/2 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
· Salt and black pepper to taste
· Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil (for easy cleanup) and place a wire rack on top. Lightly grease the rack with cooking spray. (Using a rack is highly recommended as it allows hot air to circulate, making the bottom of the chops just as crispy as the top.)
- Prepare the Breading Station: In one shallow bowl (like a pie plate), whisk together the mayonnaise, egg, and 1/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese until smooth.
In a second shallow bowl, combine the remaining 3/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. - Season the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops completely dry with a paper towel. This is crucial for the coating to stick. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Coat the Pork Chops:
· Dip each pork chop into the mayonnaise mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated on all sides. Let any excess drip off.
· Then, press the chop firmly into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, coating all sides. Press down to make sure the coating adheres well. - Bake: Place the coated pork chops on the prepared wire rack. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your chops.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring they are juicy and tender. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
· Classic Dinner: Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans or roasted asparagus. The creamy potatoes are perfect for soaking up any delicious bits from the pork chop.
· Lighter Option: Pair with a simple side salad and quinoa or rice.
· Comfort Food: Excellent with macaroni and cheese and steamed broccoli.
Tips for the Best Results
· Don’t Skip the Mayo: It might sound unusual, but mayonnaise is the secret weapon. It adds fantastic flavor and helps create a beautifully browned, crispy crust.
· Use a Meat Thermometer: This is the most reliable way to avoid dry, overcooked pork. Pull the chops out at 145°F for perfectly juicy results.
· Pound the Chops: If your chops are uneven in thickness, place them between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound the thicker ends to an even 1-inch thickness. This promotes even cooking.
· Get Creative with Seasonings: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat, or swap the paprika for smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor.
· For Bone-In Chops: You can use this same method for bone-in pork chops. Just add 3-5 minutes to the baking time and always use a thermometer to check for doneness.
Enjoy your delicious, homemade Parmesan Baked Pork Chops