If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful dinner that’s bound to impress, Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops are your answer.
These pork chops are coated in a delicious, golden-brown crust of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs, then pan-seared to perfection for a tender, juicy interior. The combination of savory garlic and nutty Parmesan creates a mouthwatering crust that will make this dish a new favorite at the dinner table.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is simple, quick, and sure to wow your family or guests. The best part? It’s ready in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners. Read on to discover how to make these crispy, flavor-packed Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops and elevate your next meal with this easy, satisfying recipe.
Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
- Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and under 30 minutes, these pork chops are a perfect weeknight dinner.
- Flavor-packed: The garlic and Parmesan create a deliciously crispy crust, while the pork stays juicy and tender inside.
- Customizable: Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste, and pair with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
- One-pan wonder: The recipe uses just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze while still delivering restaurant-quality flavor.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make the best Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter, for extra richness)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best)
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional, for added flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
For the Marinade (Optional, but Recommended for Extra Flavor):
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pork Chops
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Drying the pork chops ensures they get a good sear and helps the coating stick better. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. If you’re using the marinade, mix together the olive oil, soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce), Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Pour the marinade over the pork chops, making sure they’re well-coated, and refrigerate for at least 15-30 minutes (or up to overnight for more flavor).
2. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Coating
While the pork chops are marinating (if using), prepare the garlic Parmesan coating. In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, Panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Stir everything together until well mixed. The Parmesan will create a rich, nutty flavor, while the breadcrumbs give the coating a satisfying crunch. If you like a bit of heat, add the red pepper flakes to the mixture as well.
3. Dredge the Pork Chops
After marinating (if applicable), dip each pork chop into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently on both sides to make sure they are well-coated. You can use your hands or a fork to do this step, but make sure the chops are evenly covered with the mixture.
4. Cook the Pork Chops
Heat the olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the pork chops are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
If your chops are thicker than 1 inch, reduce the heat slightly and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes on each side. You can cover the skillet with a lid to help the pork chops cook through without burning the crust. Avoid moving the pork chops around too much in the pan so they get a nice, crispy exterior.
5. Finish with Garlic Butter (Optional, but Highly Recommended)
For an extra layer of flavor, you can make a simple garlic butter sauce. After removing the pork chops from the pan, add a tablespoon of butter and a minced garlic clove to the skillet. Allow the garlic to cook for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it. Once the garlic becomes fragrant, pour the garlic butter over the cooked pork chops for an extra burst of flavor.
6. Serve
Transfer the pork chops to a plate and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve immediately with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light salad. These pork chops also pair beautifully with a simple pasta or sautéed greens.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan will give you a richer, more flavorful crust compared to pre-grated or powdered Parmesan. It also melts better and sticks to the pork chops more effectively.
- Don’t Skip Drying the Pork Chops: Patting the pork chops dry is key for achieving a crispy coating. Moisture on the surface can prevent the breading from adhering properly.
- Cook at the Right Temperature: Make sure your skillet is hot enough to sear the pork chops without burning the crust. If the heat is too low, the pork chops might not crisp up as nicely.
- Let Pork Chops Rest: After cooking, let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the pork more tender and juicy.
- Add Extra Garlic: If you love garlic, feel free to add more minced garlic to the breadcrumb mixture or drizzle extra garlic butter over the finished pork chops.
FAQs About Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
1. Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use boneless pork chops! Boneless chops will cook a bit faster than bone-in ones, so be sure to reduce the cooking time to about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Boneless chops are also a bit leaner, so you may need to be careful not to overcook them to ensure they stay tender.
2. Can I bake the Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops instead of pan-searing?
Yes, baking is a great alternative if you prefer a less hands-on method. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). After dredging the pork chops in the garlic Parmesan mixture, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the pork is cooked through and the crust is golden. For a crispy crust, you can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes, but be sure to watch them closely to avoid burning.
3. Can I add other seasonings to the pork chops?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with the seasoning. You can add dried Italian herbs, paprika, onion powder, or even a sprinkle of lemon zest for a fresh, citrusy note. If you like your pork chops with a little kick, try adding cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for extra heat and depth.
4. How do I prevent the coating from falling off?
To prevent the Parmesan breadcrumb coating from falling off, make sure to press the crumbs onto the pork chops firmly when dredging them. Additionally, make sure the oil is hot enough when cooking so the coating crisps up right away. Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after cooking to help the coating set.
5. Can I make these pork chops ahead of time?
For best results, garlic Parmesan pork chops are best served fresh, but you can prepare the coating ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. If you need to make the pork chops in advance, you can cook them and refrigerate them for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
6. What sides go best with Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops?
Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a classic, comforting meal, serve them with mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette. For something lighter, sautéed spinach, steamed asparagus, or roasted cauliflower also make excellent accompaniments.
These Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops are a perfect combination of crispy, savory, and satisfying. The flavorful crust and tender, juicy pork make for an unforgettable dinner that’s both easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Try it tonight and enjoy a delicious, restaurant-quality meal at home!
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