Baked Lemon Pork Chops
Juicy baked pork chops with a tangy lemon-ketchup glaze, perfect for a hearty family dinner with bright citrus flavors and a savory-sweet sauce.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dredge pork chops with flour, pepper, and salt.
- Brown the pork chops in a little hot fat on both sides.
- Drain off excess fat after browning.
- Place half a lemon slice on each chop.
- Mix ketchup, water, and brown sugar; pour over the chops.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F until the pork is done, about 40 minutes.
- Add a little water during baking if the sauce cooks down too much.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider marinating the pork chops in lemon juice and herbs for an hour before dredging. If you're out of ketchup, a mixture of tomato paste and a splash of vinegar can work as a substitute. To ensure even cooking, choose chops of uniform thickness, and feel free to experiment with seasonings like garlic powder or paprika to enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
These baked lemon pork chops pair beautifully with steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli, and a side of mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the delicious sauce. A fresh salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the dish well, making it a balanced meal. For a heartier option, consider serving with Loaded Down Potato Soup.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked lemon pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Lemon Pork Chops contains roughly 31 calories, with 0g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, bone-in pork chops can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer to cook through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F for safe consumption.
What can I substitute for ketchup in this recipe?
If you don't have ketchup, you can create a similar flavor profile by mixing together tomato paste, a bit of sugar, and vinegar. This combination will provide the necessary acidity and sweetness, ensuring your dish remains delicious.
How do I know when the pork chops are done?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F. Let the chops rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).