Basil Pork Chops
Juicy pork chops coated with herbs and simmered in a flavorful wine or fruit juice, perfect for a comforting dinner with a rich, aromatic taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
- Combine flour and garlic salt in a bag; add pork chops and toss lightly until thoroughly coated.
- Brown chops in a heavy skillet using just enough olive oil to cover the bottom.
- Arrange the browned chops in a shallow ungreased baking dish without overlapping.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or dried basil over the chops.
- Cover the dish closely with foil.
- Bake until tender, about 1 1/2 hours.
- Skim off all fat from the dish.
- Add Marsala wine or apricot or plum juice.
- Remove cover and continue cooking until the liquid bubbles.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Basil Pork Chops, consider marinating the pork in a mixture of olive oil, garlic salt, and fresh basil for a few hours before cooking. If you're out of Marsala wine, apricot juice is a great substitute, adding a touch of sweetness. For a gluten-free version, use cornstarch instead of flour to coat the chops.
Serving Suggestions
These Basil Pork Chops pair beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, such as a June Layer Salad. For a heartier meal, serve them over rice or alongside mashed potatoes. A glass of white wine would complement the dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover 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 (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also add a splash of broth to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basil Pork Chops contains roughly 822 calories, with 52g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (105% of the Daily Value), iron (22% of the Daily Value), and potassium (20% 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 frozen pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops, but it's best to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking for even cooking. This will also help the coating adhere better and ensure the chops are tender.
What can I use if I don't have fresh basil?
If you don't have fresh basil, dried basil can be used as a substitute. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil for every 2 teaspoons of fresh basil. Keep in mind that dried herbs are more concentrated, so add them gradually to taste.
How do I know when the pork chops are done?
The best way to know if your pork chops are done is to use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Alternatively, the meat should be tender and no longer pink in the center.
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).