Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly crispy, golden-brown pork chop that's bursting with garlic and Parmesan flavor - so irresistible that your dinner guests will be begging for seconds! This Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops recipe is about to transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into a restaurant-worthy culinary experience that's surprisingly easy to make. Get ready to elevate your cooking game and become the kitchen hero you were meant to be!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 pork chops, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, 4 cloves of garlic (minced), 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt and pepper to taste, and olive oil for cooking.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for the pork chops once they are prepared.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help the coating adhere better and ensure a nice sear.
- Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to heat for a minute until it shimmers.
- While the oil is heating, take each pork chop and coat it generously in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing down lightly to ensure the mixture sticks well to the meat.
- Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the coated pork chops in the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- After both sides of the pork chops are browned, transfer them to a baking dish. If there is any leftover breadcrumb mixture, you can sprinkle it on top of the chops for added flavor.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and are cooked through.
- Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
- Serve the Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork chops reach the perfect 145°F internal temperature - this guarantees juicy, perfectly cooked meat every time.
- Pat Those Chops Dry: Before coating, make sure to thoroughly pat the pork chops with paper towels. This removes excess moisture and helps the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture stick better, creating a crispier coating.
- Don't Overcrowd the Skillet: When searing, give each pork chop enough space. Overcrowding can lower the pan's temperature and prevent that beautiful golden-brown crust from forming.
- Let It Rest: Always let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
- Customize Your Coating: Feel free to experiment with the breadcrumb mixture. Add some dried herbs, red pepper flakes, or swap some breadcrumbs for crushed nuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Choose the Right Pan: A cast-iron skillet works best for achieving that perfect sear, but a heavy-bottomed stainless steel pan will work well too.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 110mg
