Baked Parmesan Pork Chops
Crispy baked pork chops coated with Parmesan and cracker crumbs offer a savory, cheesy flavor. Perfect for family dinners or comforting gatherings, with a golden, crunchy crust.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place butter in a shallow pan and melt in the oven.
- Combine cracker crumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Set aside the crumb mixture.
- Blend egg and milk in a shallow bowl.
- Coat each pork chop in the crumb mixture, then dip in the egg mixture, and coat again in the crumbs.
- Place the coated pork chops in the pan with melted butter.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Carefully turn the pork chops and bake for an additional 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding Italian herbs like oregano or basil to the cracker mixture. If you don't have cracker crumbs, crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs can work well as substitutes. Ensure the pork chops are not too thick to achieve even cooking. Letting them marinate in the egg mixture for a few minutes can help the coating stick better.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these baked Parmesan pork chops with a side of scalloped peas for a delightful combination. A simple salad or roasted vegetables can also enhance the meal. For a heartier option, consider pairing with mashed potatoes or a grain like quinoa to soak up any remaining butter sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked pork chops 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 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the coating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Parmesan Pork Chops contains roughly 169 calories, with 6g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1338mg per serving (58% of the Daily Value).
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 boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used in this recipe. Just reduce the cooking time slightly, as they typically cook faster than bone-in chops. Ensure they are cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F for safety.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can use Pecorino Romano for a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, a sharp cheddar or even nutritional yeast can provide a different but tasty twist to the dish.
Can I prepare the pork chops ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pork chops ahead of time by coating them in the crumb mixture and storing them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before cooking for even results.
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).