Get ready for a tasty treat with these Parmesan crusted pork chops! They are juicy and packed with flavor, thanks to the crispy cheese crust that makes every bite special.
I love how easy they are to make, too! Just bread the chops, pop them in the oven, and in no time, you have a delicious meal. Perfect with a side of veggies or mashed potatoes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for flavor and tenderness. If you prefer a leaner option, boneless pork chops work well too, but watch the cooking time as they may cook faster.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan provides the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use pre-grated Parmesan or even Pecorino Romano for a stronger taste.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give a nice crunch. If you don’t have Panko, regular breadcrumbs are fine; you might just lose a bit of texture.
Eggs: Eggs help the coating stick. For a vegan version, you can use a mixture of ground flaxseed and water or commercial egg replacers.
Marinara Sauce: If you don’t have marinara, any tomato sauce or even a homemade sauce can substitute. For less acidity, opt for a salsa or a creamy sauce.
Olive Oil: While olive oil is my go-to for sautéing, you can use vegetable oil or butter if you prefer. Each brings a unique flavor to the dish.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crust on Your Pork Chops?
The crust on the pork chops is the star of the dish. To achieve this, follow these steps carefully to ensure a golden and crispy finish.
- First, make sure the pork chops are patted dry; moisture can prevent a good crust from forming.
- Next, the dredging process is key: flour, egg, and then breadcrumb mixture ensures that the crust sticks well.
- When searing, heat the olive oil until it’s hot, but not smoking. This helps the crust form quickly without overcooking the meat.
- Don’t crowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed. Each chop needs space to properly brown.
- Lastly, when baking, pouring marinara sauce over them keeps them moist while the cheese melts beautifully on top.
The Best Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Coating:
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko preferred)
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Topping:
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For Serving (Optional):
- Spaghetti (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and about 25-30 minutes to cook. You’ll need a little time for the pork chops to rest, so in total, plan for about 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, you can prepare your baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper or spray it with some non-stick spray. This will help prevent the pork chops from sticking.
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow dish, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This flavorful mixture will give your pork chops a crispy, cheesy topping!
3. Set Up Your Dredging Stations:
In a second shallow bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In a third bowl, place the flour. This three-step process will ensure your pork chops are evenly coated!
4. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Using paper towels, pat the pork chops dry. Then, sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides to season them well. This step is important for flavor!
5. Dredge the Chops:
Take each pork chop and dredge it in flour, shaking off any extra. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, and finally coat it well with the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each chop is fully covered—this is what makes them crunchy and tasty!
6. Sear the Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown. This step locks in the juices and adds a nice crunch.
7. Get Ready to Bake:
Now, transfer the seared pork chops to the prepared baking sheet. Pour marinara sauce over each chop, and then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top. This is where the magic happens—cheesy goodness!
8. Bake Until Perfect:
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. You want the pork chops to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the cheese to be melted and bubbly. You’ll love the aroma!
9. Cook the Spaghetti (if serving):
If you’re planning to serve spaghetti with your pork chops, now is a good time to cook it according to the package instructions. This will add a lovely side to your meal!
10. Rest and Garnish:
Once the pork chops are out of the oven, let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top. It adds a nice touch!
11. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Parmesan crusted pork chops over a bed of spaghetti with extra marinara sauce if you like. Enjoy the tasty flavors of this comforting dish!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as boneless cuts may cook a bit faster than bone-in ones. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure they’re tender and juicy.
What Can I Use if I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have Panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs can be used instead. For a crunchier texture, you can even crush some crackers or use stale bread processed into crumbs. Just keep the proportions the same for the best results.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to retain their crispy crust while warming through.
