Baked pork chops are a delicious and satisfying meal that can elevate any dinner table. With a perfect blend of spices and herbs, these chops are baked to perfection, ensuring they remain juicy and tender. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests. Get ready to savor every bite of this mouthwatering dish!
Ingredients
– 4 bone-in pork chops
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 pork chop) contains approximately 350 calories, 22g protein, 28g fat, 0g carbohydrates, and 1g sugar. This nutritional breakdown is for one person, providing a hearty meal option.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the spice mixture generously over both sides of the pork chops.
5. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil.
6. Sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
7. Transfer the pork chops to a baking dish.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
9. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
10. Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute bone-in pork chops with boneless cuts for quicker cooking. Additionally, try using different spices or herbs like rosemary or Italian seasoning for a flavor twist.
Serving and Pairings
Baked pork chops pair beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. A side of applesauce or sautéed greens can also complement the dish wonderfully.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover baked 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) until warmed through. Pork chops can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not letting the pork chops rest before slicing can lead to dry meat.
- Overcooking can dry out the pork; use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Skipping the searing step can result in less flavor.
- Not seasoning well enough can make the dish bland.
- Using low-quality pork can affect taste and texture.
Helpful Tips
- Choose thick-cut pork chops for juiciness.
- Marinate the chops for a few hours for enhanced flavor.
- Experiment with different marinades for variety.
- Let chops come to room temperature before cooking for even cooking.
- Use a cast-iron skillet for better searing results.
FAQs
How long do I bake pork chops?
Bake pork chops for about 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used, but adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster than bone-in chops.
What should I serve with baked pork chops?
Baked pork chops are delicious with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad.
How do I know when pork chops are done?
Use a meat thermometer; pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
Can I marinate the pork chops overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight can enhance the flavor and tenderness of the pork chops significantly.
Conclusion
Baked pork chops are not only easy to prepare but also deliver on flavor and satisfaction. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a delicious meal that everyone will love. Enjoy your culinary creation!
Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the 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, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture generously over both sides of the pork chops.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil.
- Sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the pork chops to a baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.
