These Easy Crispy Parmesan Baked Pork Chops are a treat! Coated in a crunchy mix of parmesan and breadcrumbs, they’re baked to golden perfection. Yum!
Honestly, who can resist that crispy topping? I usually make extra so I can enjoy some straight from the oven. They’re super simple to prepare, making dinner stress-free!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I like using bone-in pork chops for extra flavor and moisture, but boneless works just as well. If you prefer a leaner option, boneless pork loin is a great substitution.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan gives a nice sharp flavor and crispy crust. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you might try nutritional yeast for a similar taste.
Breadcrumbs: Panko is my favorite since it results in a crunchier texture. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work too, but the crunchiness might be a bit less.
Seasonings: The garlic and onion powders add great taste, but feel free to mix in your favorite herbs and spices. Maybe some cayenne for heat or a bit of lemon zest for freshness!
How Do I Get the Perfect Crispy Coating?
The secret to that crispy crust lies in a few simple steps. First, make sure the pork chops are dry before coating them; this helps the eggs and breadcrumbs stick better. Here’s how:
- Start by coating the chops in beaten eggs; this helps the crumb mixture adhere.
- Then, press them firmly into the parmesan breadcrumbs mixture, ensuring every side is well covered.
- Drizzle olive oil or melted butter on top. This is crucial for creating that lovely golden brown finish.
- Don’t rush the baking time. Allow the chops to cook until they reach that perfect internal temperature.
- If you want an extra crunch, finish with a quick broil! Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
These steps will help you achieve crispy, golden perfection every time. Happy cooking!
How to Make Easy Crispy Parmesan Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
For The Coating:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Dipping:
- 2 large eggs
For Baking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take approximately 10 minutes for preparation and about 25-30 minutes to bake, totaling around 40 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Baking Dish:
First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, lightly grease a baking dish or line it with foil to make cleanup easier later. Trust me, this little step will save you time!
2. Mix the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This combination gives a fantastic flavor boost to the pork chops!
3. Prepare the Egg Wash:
In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs until smooth and set it aside. This will help the breadcrumb mixture stick to the pork chops.
4. Dry and Dip the Pork Chops:
Using paper towels, pat the pork chops dry. This step is important because moisture can prevent the coating from sticking well. Dip each pork chop into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s coated on both sides.
5. Coat the Chops:
After the egg wash, dredge each pork chop in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing down lightly to make sure the coating sticks. You want those chops to be well-covered!
6. Arrange in Baking Dish:
Place the coated pork chops into the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the olive oil or melted butter evenly over the top of the chops. This will help them turn golden and crispy while baking.
7. Bake Until Cooked Through:
Put the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Check to ensure the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). The coating should be beautifully golden brown and crispy by this point.
8. Optional Broiling Step:
If you’d like an extra crunchy topping, you can turn on the broiler for about 2-3 minutes at the end of baking. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn—safety first!
9. Rest and Serve:
When the pork chops are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy! Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Enjoy these juicy pork chops with a delicious crispy Parmesan crust! They pair perfectly with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
FAQ for Easy Crispy Parmesan Baked Pork Chops
Can I Use Thin Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use thin pork chops! Just be aware that they will need less time in the oven, around 15-20 minutes, so keep an eye on their internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use Pecorino Romano for a similar flavor. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers 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, which helps maintain the crispiness.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pork chops (breaded and ready to bake) ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. When you’re ready to cook, bake them straight from the fridge, but you may need to add an additional 5 minutes to the baking time.
