One Dish Pork Chops
A hearty one-dish pork chop meal with rice and tomato sauce, featuring sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown pork chops in a frying pan with chopped or diced onion. Drain fat and remove pork chops.
- Add remaining ingredients — tomato sauce, water, brown sugar, basil, and onion if using — to the frying pan.
- Place pork chops back into the pan on top of the rice mixture.
- Cover and simmer for 45 minutes until rice is cooked and pork chops are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs before cooking. If you want a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the rice mixture. You can substitute white rice with brown rice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you don't have pork chops, chicken thighs work well in this dish as a substitute. This recipe is a great example of classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pork chops alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a heartier option, consider serving with mashed potatoes or a side of corn. It’s a comforting meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork chops and rice mixture in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Cover the pan to ensure even heating. You can also microwave individual portions until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of One Dish Pork Chops contains roughly 596 calories, with 8g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), iron (26% of the Daily Value), and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or even beef if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed; chicken typically cooks faster than pork. Ensure the internal temperature reaches a safe level for the protein you choose.
What can I do if I don't have tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can substitute with crushed tomatoes or tomato paste mixed with water. Another option is to use a can of diced tomatoes. Just make sure to adjust the liquid content accordingly for the rice to cook properly.
How do I know when the pork chops are done cooking?
Pork chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). They should be tender and no longer pink in the center. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure they are cooked properly.
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).