Pork Chops Italian
Juicy pork chops topped with melting mozzarella cheese and rich tomato sauce, seasoned with Italian bread crumbs for a crispy coating. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish offers a delightful combination of savory flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove the bone from each pork chop.
- Flatten each pork chop to 1/4-inch thickness using a meat mallet; dredge in flour.
- Combine egg and water to make an egg wash.
- Dip each pork chop in the egg mixture, then dredge in Italian bread crumbs.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook pork chops until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Pour tomato sauce over the pork chops.
- Place a slice of mozzarella cheese on each chop.
- Cover and cook until cheese melts, about 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, marinate the pork chops in olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs for a few hours before cooking. You can substitute the Mozzarella with Provolone for a sharper taste or use gluten-free bread crumbs for a gluten-free version. If you prefer a crunchier topping, consider adding some grated Parmesan cheese to the bread crumbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pork Chops Italian with a side of spaghetti tossed in olive oil and garlic for a classic pairing, or with a fresh salad for a lighter option. These chops also pair beautifully with Mary'S Meatless Lasagna, making for a hearty Italian meal. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top adds a lovely touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook, as this can dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork Chops Italian contains roughly 455 calories, with 14g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron.
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 the cooking time may vary. Bone-in chops typically take a bit longer to cook through, so ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
What can I serve with Pork Chops Italian?
These pork chops go well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving them with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a classic Caesar salad. For a heartier option, you could also serve them alongside Italian recipes like Mary'S Meatless Lasagna.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes into the tomato sauce or season the pork chops with cayenne pepper before cooking. You can also serve with a spicy marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
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).