Pork Chops With Cheese
Juicy pork chops topped with a cheesy bread crumb crust, baked to perfection and served with a flavorful tomato sauce, ideal for hearty family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brush pork chops with tomato paste.
- Mix Parmesan cheese with bread crumbs; pat onto the chops.
- Pan-fry chops until browned.
- Place chops in a baking dish.
- Add a small amount of water to prevent sticking.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
- Serve with sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, marinate the pork chops in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs before brushing with tomato paste. If you don't have Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano or a blend of Italian cheeses. For a crunchier topping, consider adding some crushed nuts to the breadcrumb mixture. These pork recipes are versatile and can be adjusted to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
These pork chops pair beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Consider serving them alongside Hot Red Skin Potato Salad for a hearty meal. Drizzle some extra tomato sauce over the chops for added moisture and flavor, and garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.
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 for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork Chops With Cheese contains roughly 305 calories, with 20g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. At about 305 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless chops may cook faster than bone-in. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption.
What can I substitute for bread crumbs?
If you don’t have bread crumbs, you can use crushed crackers, panko, or even ground oats as a substitute. Each option will provide a different texture, but all will work well to create a crunchy topping.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pork chops with the toppings and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them well to prevent drying out, and bake them fresh when you're ready to serve.
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).