Cheese Topped Pork Chops
Juicy pork chops topped with a flavorful Parmesan cheese crust, perfect for a hearty, satisfying meal suitable for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a baking dish with Pam spray.
- Season the pork chops with pepper and set aside.
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, minced onion, parsley flakes, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Dip each pork chop into beaten egg, then coat with the flour mixture.
- Heat margarine in a skillet over medium heat.
- Brown the coated pork chops in the skillet for about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Transfer the browned pork chops to the prepared baking dish.
- In a small saucepan, heat skim milk until warm.
- Pour the warm milk over the pork chops in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top of each chop if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the pork is cooked through and the cheese topping is golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier coating, consider adding breadcrumbs to the flour mixture. If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute with any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. To save time, you can use pre-seasoned pork chops or even opt for boneless cuts for quicker cooking. This recipe is adaptable for different flavors; try adding Italian herbs for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
These cheese topped pork chops pair beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve alongside mashed potatoes or rice pilaf. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate the flavors, making it an excellent choice for dinner guests or family meals. Explore other delicious pork recipes for more ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork chops in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, ensuring the cheese doesn’t burn. You can also microwave them for a quicker option, but watch carefully to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Topped Pork Chops contains roughly 595 calories, with 16g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value) and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 519mg per serving (23% 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 bone-in pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, bone-in pork chops can be used; just be aware that they may require a few extra minutes of cooking time to ensure they're cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
What can I substitute for margarine?
You can easily replace margarine with unsalted butter or olive oil for a healthier option. If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, coconut oil or a plant-based butter works well in this recipe, maintaining the flavor and texture you desire.
How do I know when the pork chops are fully cooked?
The best way to ensure your pork chops are fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chop; it should read 145°F (63°C). Additionally, the meat should be opaque and the juices should run clear when pierced.
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).