Parmesan Baked Pork Chops

Craving Restaurant-Quality Pork Chops at Home? Parmesan Baked Pork Chops to the Rescue!

Do you crave juicy, flavorful pork chops cooked to tender perfection without the hassle of elaborate preparations or fancy ingredients? Look no further than this Parmesan Baked Pork Chops recipe! It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, incredibly easy to prepare, making it the perfect weeknight dinner solution that tastes like it came straight out of your favorite restaurant.

What Makes These Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops So Special?

• Moist and Tender Perfection: Say goodbye to dry, overcooked pork chops forever! This recipe utilizes a simple yet effective cooking method that ensures your chops stay incredibly moist and tender on the inside. Each bite will be a delightful explosion of juicy pork flavor.
• Bursting with Flavor: This recipe goes beyond the ordinary. A combination of Dijon mustard, olive oil, and Italian seasoning creates a flavorful base that infuses the pork chops with savory goodness. A generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a delightful finishing touch, bringing a touch of salty richness to every mouthful.
• Easy Weeknight Meal: This recipe is all about simplicity, making it a lifesaver on busy weeknights. With minimal prep work and a short baking time, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying quality time with your family or catching up on your favorite show.

Ingredients for Your Parmesan Pork Chop Perfection:

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (whole grain Dijon mustard can be used for an extra kick)
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 4 (6-ounce) center-cut, bone-in or boneless pork chops (thickness can vary slightly)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Guide to Flavorful Pork Chops:

1. Preheat and Prep: Get your oven preheated to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet for easy cleanup later.
2. Flavorful Mustard Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, olive oil, and Italian seasoning. This simple marinade will add a burst of flavor to your pork chops.
3. Season the Pork Chops: Generously season the pork chops on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Seasoning is key to enhancing the natural flavor of the pork.
4. Mustard, Oil, and Parmesan Magic: Brush both sides of the seasoned pork chops with the prepared Dijon mustard mixture. This ensures each bite is bursting with savory goodness. Then, liberally coat each side with the grated Parmesan cheese, pressing gently to ensure it adheres well. Imagine creating a delicious Parmesan crust for your pork chops.
5. Baking to Perfection: Place the prepared pork chops on the greased baking sheet. Bake them in your preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of your pork chops. For thicker chops, you may need to add a few extra minutes of baking time. The internal temperature of the pork chops should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

Dinner is Served!: Once the baking time is complete, your Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops are ready to enjoy! The golden brown, crispy Parmesan crust encases juicy and flavorful pork for a restaurant-worthy experience at home. Serve them with your favorite sides for a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Consider roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad for a perfect accompaniment.

Bonus Tips:

• For a touch of sweetness: Add a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar to the Dijon mustard mixture for a sweet and savory glaze.
• Spice it Up (Optional): If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper onto the pork chops before coating them with Parmesan cheese.
• Internal Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork chops reach the safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).