Pork Chop Parmesan
Savory pork chops baked with marinara and melted cheese create a comforting, cheesy dish perfect for family dinners and cheese lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the boneless pork chops in a large skillet.
- Remove the pork chops from the skillet.
- Stir rice, water, and 1 cup of Ragu sauce in the skillet.
- Add the browned pork chops to the skillet.
- Cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until the rice is cooked and the pork is tender.
- Top the pork chops and rice with shredded Mozzarella cheese and the remaining sauce.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover and simmer until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, marinate the pork chops in Italian seasoning or garlic before browning. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute white rice with brown rice or quinoa for a nutty flavor and added nutrients. For extra creaminess, consider mixing in a bit of cream cheese with the sauce before adding the cheese on top.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pork Chop Parmesan over a bed of fresh greens or alongside steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting side, consider pairing it with mashed potatoes or a warm bread roll. This dish also pairs beautifully with American recipes like Warmer Kartoffelsalat for a hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in an oven at 350°F until heated thoroughly to maintain the cheese's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork Chop Parmesan contains roughly 667 calories, with 54g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (108% of the Daily Value), calcium (69% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1282mg per serving (56% 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, you can use bone-in pork chops, but be aware that they may require a longer cooking time to ensure that the meat is tender and fully cooked. Adjust the simmering time accordingly to ensure both the rice and pork are cooked perfectly.
What can I use instead of Ragu sauce?
If you prefer homemade sauce, you can use crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and Italian herbs to create your own marinara. Alternatively, any store-bought marinara or spaghetti sauce would work well as a substitute for Ragu sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pork and sauce mixture in advance, then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat and add the cheese before finishing the cooking process. This is a great option for busy weeknights.
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).