These baked pork chops are juicy and flavorful, made with just a few simple ingredients! They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.
Honestly, I can’t resist the smell while they bake—it’s like a mini feast wafting through the house! I like to serve mine with mashed potatoes for a cozy meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are best for flavor, but you can use boneless if that’s what you have. Just watch the cooking time as they might cook faster.
Olive Oil: This adds nice flavor and helps to crisp the chops. You can substitute with vegetable oil or melted butter if needed.
Spices: Garlic and onion powder provide a great base flavor. If you don’t have those, try using fresh minced garlic or onion. Paprika adds color and a hint of smokiness; smoked paprika is an excellent alternative!
Fresh Herbs: I love adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra flavor boost at the end. Dried herbs can work, too, if you don’t have fresh on hand.
How Do I Achieve a Good Sear on My Pork Chops?
Getting a nice sear on your pork chops is all about the heat and the prep. Here’s how:
- First, make sure your pork chops are dry by patting them with paper towels; this helps in getting that lovely golden crust.
- Heat your skillet on medium-high until it’s hot before adding oil. You want the oil to shimmer but not smoke.
- Place the pork chops in the pan without overcrowding; this ensures they sear instead of steam. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
- After searing, transferring them to the oven completes the cooking while keeping them moist.
Following these steps will give you deliciously golden-brown pork chops that are juicy inside! Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as rosemary or thyme), optional
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 5-10 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 30 minutes to enjoy these juicy baked pork chops from start to finish! Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is important so that your pork chops cook evenly and come out juicy.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help them get a nice golden sear when cooking.
3. Mix Your Spices:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mixing them together will ensure that the flavors distribute evenly when you season the meat.
4. Rub with Olive Oil:
Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the pork chops and rub it in well. This not only helps the spices stick, but it also adds flavor and helps with the searing.
5. Season the Chops:
Now, take the spice mixture and rub it evenly on both sides of the pork chops. Make sure they’re well-coated to enhance flavor.
6. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned.
7. Bake in the Oven:
Now it’s time to bake! Carefully transfer the skillet with the pork chops to the preheated oven. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
8. Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making them extra juicy. Garnish with fresh herbs if you like, and serve warm!
These baked pork chops are sure to impress with their delightful flavor and texture. Enjoy with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or steamed veggies! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Pork Loin Chops Instead of Bone-in Chops?
Absolutely! Pork loin chops will work well, but they tend to be leaner than bone-in chops, so be sure to watch closely to avoid overcooking. They may cook a little faster, so check for doneness around the 10-minute mark.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Garlic or Onion Powder?
No problem! You can substitute with fresh garlic and onion. Use about 1-2 cloves of minced garlic and a small amount of finely chopped onion. Just sprinkle them on the chops before searing—they’ll impart great flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, which helps retain moisture.
Can I Add Other Seasonings to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite herbs and spices, like thyme or Italian seasoning, to customize the flavor to your liking. Just keep the basic proportions in mind to maintain balance!
