These Easy Crispy Parmesan Baked Pork Chops are a tasty treat! They’re covered in crunchy breadcrumbs and flavorful parmesan, making each bite satisfying.
Cooking these is a breeze! Just coat the chops, pop them in the oven, and relax while they bake to golden perfection. Perfect for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless chops work best for this recipe. You can substitute with bone-in chops; just note that they may require a bit longer to cook. If you’re trying to cut down on meat, consider using chicken breasts instead.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan provides the best flavor, but you can use pre-grated if that’s what you have. Pecorino Romano is a great substitute for a more intense flavor.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These are key for crunch! Regular breadcrumbs can work, but the texture won’t be as light and crispy. If you need a gluten-free option, try gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a nice tang, but if you’re not a fan, you can skip it or substitute it with a little olive oil or mustard powder mixed with water.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Crunch on These Pork Chops?
Getting that delicious crunch is essential! Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure to pat the pork chops dry before coating. Moisture can prevent the breadcrumbs from sticking properly.
- When dipping, let excess egg drip off before coating with the breadcrumb mixture. This helps in getting a thicker layer of crunch.
- Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the pork. This ensures they stay put when baking.
- Drizzling oil or melted butter on top of the chops helps in achieving that golden brown and crispy finish.
- Keep an eye on them while broiling; it only takes a minute to go from nicely browned to burnt!
By following these tips, you’ll get perfectly crispy parmesan baked pork chops every time. Enjoy your meal!
Easy Crispy Parmesan Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (optional for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter, for drizzling
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. So, you can have these delicious pork chops ready in around 35 minutes, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chops cook evenly and get nice and crispy. Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with foil to make cleanup a breeze.
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix it all together until well combined for a deliciously seasoned coating.
3. Beat the Eggs:
In another bowl, crack the two large eggs and whisk them together with the Dijon mustard (if you’re using it). This mixture will help the breadcrumbs stick to the pork chops.
4. Coat the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps the coating stick better. First, dip each chop into the egg mixture, allowing the excess to drip off. Next, coat the pork chops thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing it onto the surface to ensure it sticks well.
5. Arrange in the Baking Dish:
Once all your chops are coated, place them in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle olive oil or melted butter evenly over the tops of the chops. This will help them brown beautifully.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Put the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. Your pork chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
7. Optional Broil:
If you want an extra crispy top, you can broil the chops for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking. Just watch them closely so they don’t burn!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove your pork chops from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve them hot alongside your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy, and perfectly baked pork chops! They’re sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
FAQ for Easy Crispy Parmesan Baked Pork Chops
Can I Use Bone-in Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Yes, you can! Bone-in pork chops will add a little more flavor, but they may take a few extra minutes to cook through. Just make sure to check the internal temperature and ensure it reaches 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but the texture won’t be as crispy. For a gluten-free option, try using crushed rice cereal or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through for the best texture.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can coat the pork chops ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing them in the oven to ensure even cooking.
