These Parmesan crusted pork chops are crispy on the outside and juicy inside. The cheesy coating adds so much flavor; it makes every bite delicious!
Who doesn’t love that crunchy texture? I always end up sneaking a few pieces before dinner, just to make sure they’re tasty enough to share. 😉
Cooking these chops is a breeze! I just coat them in the cheesy mix and bake. They come out perfect every time—great for a quick weeknight dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless chops work best because they cook evenly and stay juicy. If you prefer bone-in chops, just adjust the cooking time slightly. You could also use chicken breasts as a substitute for a different flavor!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and texture. If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast works well for a dairy-free option!
Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs add great flavor, but you can use plain breadcrumbs or panko for an extra crunch. If you’re gluten-free, there are plenty of gluten-free breadcrumb options available.
Eggs and Milk: These create a nice coating for the pork. If you’re vegan, you can use flaxseed meal mixed with water or a dairy-free milk alternative.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crispy Coating?
Achieving that crispy coating is key! Here’s how to do it right:
- First, make sure your pork chops are dry. Pat them with paper towels to avoid excess moisture.
- Coat them well in the egg mixture before dredging in the breadcrumb mix. Press firmly to ensure a thick coat.
- Don’t skip the skillet! Searing the chops on the stovetop creates a great crust. Just keep the heat at medium-high.
- Finally, baking in the oven finishes the cooking without burning the crust. Aim for the internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and allow the pork to rest for juicy results.
This method gives your pork chops that restaurant-style crust you’ll love!
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Coating:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
For the Egg Mixture:
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
For Cooking:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and give it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and dry them off with paper towels. This helps them get nice and crispy! Season both sides with salt and pepper according to your taste.
3. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. This will help the breadcrumbs stick to the pork chops.
4. Prepare the Coating:
In another shallow dish, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and dried parsley (if using). This will be the delicious crust on your pork chops!
5. Coat the Pork Chops:
Take each pork chop and first dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, press both sides into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Make sure they’re well coated for that perfect crunch!
6. Sear the Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the pork chops and cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side until they’re golden brown.
7. Bake in the Oven:
Flip the pork chops over and then carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C).
8. Rest and Serve:
Once done, take the skillet out of the oven and let the pork chops rest for 3-5 minutes. This helps them stay juicy. Serve with a side salad or your favorite veggies!
And there you have it! Enjoy your juicy, crispy Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops! They’re sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time since bone-in chops may take a little longer to cook through. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
How Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of the Italian-style breadcrumbs. Be sure to check that your Parmesan cheese is also gluten-free!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the pork chops up to the coating step and keep them covered in the fridge for a few hours. When you’re ready, just sear and bake them as directed.
What Should I Serve with Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, try serving them with steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans!
