These crispy baked Parmesan pork chops are a real treat! Coated in a tasty mix of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, they bake to a golden perfection without frying.
Honestly, who can resist that crunch? I love making these on busy nights because they’re easy to prepare—just season, coat, and bake. Perfect for hungry bellies!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and juiciness, but you can use boneless ones if you prefer. Just check the cooking time, as they may cook faster.
Italian Breadcrumbs: These add a wonderful taste, but if you don’t have them, plain breadcrumbs with a sprinkle of Italian seasoning will work too. You can even use panko for extra crunch!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano works too. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Spices: The spices really enhance the flavor. Feel free to add herbs like thyme or basil based on what you have on hand. Adjust to your taste!
How Do I Get the Perfect Crispy Coating?
Coating the pork chops properly is key to that delicious crunch. Here are my tips:
- Make sure to pat your pork chops dry; moisture prevents crispiness.
- Thoroughly coat each chop in the egg and then in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently but firmly to help the crumbs adhere.
- Drizzle oil or melted butter over the chops before baking. This helps them crisp up beautifully.
- Watch them closely when broiling! It takes just a minute or two for them to get extra crispy.
With these tips, your pork chops will turn out perfectly crispy every time!
How to Make Crispy Baked Parmesan Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of preparation time and 20–25 minutes to bake. Don’t forget to let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after baking, making the total time around 35–40 minutes before you can enjoy your delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure your pork chops bake to perfection. While it’s heating, line a baking sheet or shallow baking dish with foil and give it a light grease with cooking spray or oil.
2. Prepare the Coating Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, mix the Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, smoked paprika if you’re using it, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. This is where the flavor comes from!
3. Beat the Eggs:
In a separate bowl, beat the two eggs until they are well mixed. This will help the breadcrumb coating stick to the pork chops.
4. Coat the Pork Chops:
Use paper towels to pat the pork chops dry. This step is important for getting that crispy texture! Dip each chop into the beaten eggs, making sure they’re fully coated. Then, roll them in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so it sticks nicely.
5. Arrange and Drizzle:
Place the coated pork chops on your prepared baking sheet or dish. To achieve that lovely crispiness, drizzle them with olive oil or melted butter, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
6. Bake:
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20–25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Broil for Extra Crispiness:
If you want that extra crunchy top, set the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes. Just watch closely to make sure they don’t burn—this step is all about perfect timing!
8. Rest and Serve:
Once baked, remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This helps the juices settle so they’re nice and juicy when you cut into them.
9. Garnish:
Before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a lovely touch. It adds flavor and a beautiful color contrast!
Now you’re ready to dig into your mouthwatering crispy baked Parmesan pork chops. Enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQ for Crispy Baked Parmesan Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can! Boneless pork chops will cook a bit faster, so start checking for doneness around 15–20 minutes. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfect juiciness.
Can I Make These Pork Chops in Advance?
Absolutely! You can coat the pork chops a few hours in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before placing them in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What Should I Serve With These Pork Chops?
These crispy pork chops pair wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. They also make a fantastic topping for a hearty pasta dish!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain the crispiness.
