Baked Pork Chops
Are you ready to impress your family and friends with a mouthwatering dish? These baked pork chops are not only simple to make but are also packed with flavor. With a crispy exterior and juicy interior, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this delightful meal!
Ingredients
– 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh rosemary for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 25-30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 pork chop) contains approximately: 300 calories, 20g protein, 22g fat, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fiber. This is based on a standard serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy crust.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork chops.
5. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil.
6. Sear the pork chops for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
7. Transfer the chops to a baking dish.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
9. Let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
10. Garnish with fresh rosemary and enjoy!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute bone-in pork chops with boneless ones for a quicker cooking time. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different herbs like oregano or basil for varied flavors.
Serving and Pairings
Baked pork chops pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. A side of applesauce complements the savory flavors beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Pork chops can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not patting the chops dry can prevent a good sear.
- Overcooking will make the pork dry and tough.
- Skipping the resting time can result in loss of juices.
- Using too much seasoning can overwhelm the pork’s flavor.
- Not preheating the oven can lead to uneven cooking.
Helpful Tips
- Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
- Marinate the pork chops for extra flavor.
- Let the pork chops rest after cooking for juiciness.
- Experiment with different spice blends for variety.
FAQs
How long should I bake pork chops?
Bake pork chops for 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C), or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used; they will cook faster, so adjust the baking time accordingly.
What herbs work best with pork chops?
Great herbs for pork chops include thyme, rosemary, sage, and oregano, which all enhance the savory flavor of the meat.
Should I cover pork chops while baking?
Covering is not necessary for cooking, but you can cover them with foil if you want to keep them warm after baking.
What sides go well with baked pork chops?
Baked pork chops pair well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
Baked pork chops are a delicious and straightforward dish that can elevate any meal. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy a comforting and satisfying dinner. Try this recipe for your next gathering and watch it become a family favorite!
Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops about 1 inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh rosemary for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the pork chops.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
- Sear the pork chops for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer the chops to a baking dish.
- Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh rosemary and enjoy!
