Pork Loin Parmigiana
Pork loin parmigiana features tender breaded pork topped with melted cheese and rich spaghetti sauce, baked to bubbly perfection—an Italian-inspired comfort dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove bone and fat from pork loin chops; save all small pieces of meat.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven until hot enough that a water drop dances.
- Beat eggs in a small bowl.
- Pour seasoned bread crumbs into another shallow dish.
- Dip pork loin chops in beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly in bread crumbs.
- Fry breaded pork chops until browned in hot oil.
- Drain fried chops on paper towels.
- Arrange all fried pork chops in a 9 x 13-inch dish or pan.
- Cover with slices of Provolone cheese.
- Pour spaghetti sauce over the top to cover.
- Microwave on High for 5 minutes or bake in a 350°F oven for 20 minutes until bubbly.
- Serve over cooked spaghetti.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the pork loin chops in Italian seasonings for a few hours before breading. If Provolone cheese isn't available, mozzarella can be a great substitute. Ensure the oil is hot enough to achieve a crispy texture without absorbing too much grease. Pair this dish with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pork Loin Parmigiana over al dente spaghetti, allowing the sauce to soak into the pasta for added flavor. A simple side of garlic bread complements this dish well, and a mixed green salad can provide a refreshing balance. This dish pairs beautifully with Easy Italian Sausage Casserole for a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Pork Loin Parmigiana can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in the microwave for a few minutes or in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. This will help maintain the dish's crispy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork Loin Parmigiana contains roughly 1676 calories, with 95g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 119g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (190% of the Daily Value), calcium (144% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (119% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2295mg per serving (100% 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 chicken instead of pork for this recipe?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used as a substitute for pork loin chops. The cooking time may vary slightly, so ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption. The breading and sauce will work nicely with chicken as well.
What type of spaghetti sauce works best?
A classic marinara sauce is ideal for this dish, but feel free to experiment with flavored sauces, like roasted garlic or spicy arrabbiata, to add your personal touch. Homemade sauces often yield the best results, enhancing the overall flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake it from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).