January 27, 2025

parmesan baked pork chops

Parmesan Baked Pork Chops

Did you know that over 60% of American households enjoy pork as a regular part of their meals? Parmesan Baked Pork Chops are a fantastic way to elevate this popular protein with Italian-inspired flavors. This recipe not only offers a crispy, flavorful coating but also guarantees your pork chops remain juicy and tender. Curious about how to achieve this delicious balance in your cooking? Let’s explore the recipe and its unique cooking method.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When you try this Parmesan baked pork chops recipe, you’ll quickly see why it’s a favorite for many home cooks. The unique two-step cooking method combines pan-frying and oven baking, giving you a crispy exterior and tender interior. This approach ensures that the pork chops remain juicy and flavorful throughout the cooking process.

With just 15 minutes of prep time, it’s a quick and easy meal. You can customize the breading using crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly option. The simple ingredients, like eggs, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese, make it accessible.

Plus, this dish pairs well with sides like mashed cauliflower or air-fryer Brussels sprouts. Whether you choose bone-in or boneless pork chops, you’ll enjoy a flavorful, protein-rich meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

History

Parmesan baked pork chops have a rich history that connects Italian culinary traditions with American comfort food. This dish draws inspiration from classic Italian meals like veal parmesan, which features breaded veal topped with tomato sauce and melted cheese.

Over time, Americans adapted this recipe, substituting pork chops for veal while keeping the essence of Italian flavors through Parmesan cheese and seasonings. In the Midwest, it became a staple at family gatherings, often served with sides like mashed potatoes and green beans. The simplicity of the recipe, with its minimal ingredients required, made it a favorite among busy families looking for quick meal solutions.

Various cooking methods emerged, such as baking or pan-searing, allowing for different textures. Today, parmesan baked pork chops reflect cultural exchanges and continue to evolve with new ingredients and techniques, maintaining their status as a beloved home-cooked meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:
– 4 to 6 boneless pork chops (1/2 to 1-inch thick)
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 2 cups Italian seasoned Panko bread crumbs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon water
– Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F or 375°F for consistent cooking. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a cooling rack on top to allow for air circulation while baking.
In a shallow bowl, beat together the egg and water to create an egg wash. In another shallow bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides. Dip each chop into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully coated, then transfer it to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to guarantee an even coating.
Once all the pork chops are coated, place them on the cooling rack. Drizzle the tops with melted butter or spritz with cooking spray for added flavor and moisture.
Bake the pork chops in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until they’re no longer pink in the center and reach an internal temperature of 145°F. If desired, broil for a few additional minutes to achieve a golden-brown crust.
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

For the best experience when cooking Parmesan Baked Pork Chops, consider using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature accurately.

This will help guarantee your pork chops are perfectly cooked without being dry.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with different seasonings or add herbs to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra layer of flavor.

Enjoy your meal with your favorite sides for a complete dining experience!

Final Thoughts

Cooking can bring joy and satisfaction, especially when you prepare a delicious meal like Parmesan Baked Pork Chops. This dish not only tastes great but also provides a good mix of nutrients.

With about 554 calories per serving, it offers 37 grams of protein, making it a filling choice. You can easily customize the breading with panko or crushed crackers, and using olive oil adds moisture and flavor. The buttery crust enhances flavor and is perfect for picky eaters, especially children.

Baking at 400 degrees for 15-20 minutes guarantees the pork chops cook evenly, reaching the safe internal temperature of 145 degrees.

Remember to measure your servings and enjoy the health benefits, such as calcium and potassium, while savoring a meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Happy cooking!

FAQ

Have questions about making Parmesan Baked Pork Chops? First, choose 1/2 inch thick boneless pork chops for the best results.

Preheat your oven to 350°F, and bake the chops for 30-35 minutes, or until they’re fork tender. If you want extra browning, turn on the broil for the last few minutes. Proper cooking is essential to avoid sad, dry pork chops and achieve juicy results. For the breading, dip the chops in an egg wash, then coat them with Italian seasoned Panko breadcrumbs. If you don’t have those, add Italian seasoning to plain breadcrumbs.

Remember, to avoid dry pork chops, monitor the cooking time closely. If using bone-in chops, guarantee they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Enjoy!