Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
Juicy pork chops coated in a crispy garlic and Parmesan crust, served with a creamy sauce. This dish combines savory flavors with simple preparation, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Equipment
- 1 Skillet or frying pan For searing the pork chops.
- 1 Oven-safe skillet If finishing in the oven; otherwise, use a baking sheet.
- 1 Meat Thermometer To ensure pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Optional Tongs For flipping the pork chops without piercing them.
Ingredients
For the Pork Chops
- 4 pieces Bone-in pork chops (1-inch thick) Bone-in for juiciness; boneless works but requires careful cooking.
- ½ tsp Salt Adjust to taste.
- ¼ tsp Black pepper Freshly ground preferred.
- ½ cup All-purpose flour For initial coating.
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs Mixed with Parmesan for crunch.
- ½ cup Grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated for better flavor.
- 2 tbsp Olive oil For searing the chops.
- 2 tbsp Butter Adds richness and aids browning.
For the Sauce
- 3 cloves Garlic Minced fine for aroma.
- ½ cup Heavy cream Creates a velvety texture.
- ¼ cup Grated Parmesan cheese Adds nutty depth to the sauce.
- 1 tbsp Fresh parsley Chopped for garnish and freshness.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Recipe
Prepare the Pork Chops:
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
- Lightly dust each chop with all-purpose flour, shaking off excess.
Coat the Pork Chops:
- In a shallow bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese. Press each floured chop into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly on both sides.
Sear the Pork Chops:
- Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Finish in the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the skillet to the oven (or place chops on a baking sheet) and bake for 5–8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic in the remaining butter until fragrant. Add heavy cream and grated Parmesan, stirring until smooth and creamy. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
Rest and Serve:
- Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving. Spoon the sauce over the chops and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
-
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked pork chops after coating; cook directly from frozen, adding extra time to the baking step.
- Substitutions: Use boneless chops if preferred, but reduce cooking time to avoid drying out. Substitute almond flour for gluten-free options.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What ingredients are needed for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops?
- Pork chops, all-purpose flour, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, heavy cream, olive oil, butter, salt, pepper, and parsley.
- How do I keep pork chops juicy while cooking?
- Use bone-in chops, brine or marinate beforehand, sear on high heat, and finish in the oven to lock in moisture.
- Can this recipe be made with boneless pork chops?
- Yes, but reduce cooking time to prevent dryness. Boneless chops cook faster than bone-in.
- What is the best way to reheat leftover pork chops?
- Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes, covered with foil, to retain juiciness.
- Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
- Yes, prepare the sauce and store it separately. Reheat gently before serving.
- What sides pair well with Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops?
- Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green salad, or steamed asparagus.
Tips & Tricks
- Flavor Enhancement: Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice to the sauce for brightness. Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley before serving.
- Presentation: Serve on a warm plate with sauce spooned elegantly over the chops. Pair with colorful sides like roasted carrots or green beans for visual appeal.
- Leftovers: Use leftover pork chops in sandwiches or wraps with a drizzle of the sauce for a quick lunch option.
Plating and Garnishing
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley and grated Parmesan over the chops for freshness and added flavor.
- Serving Style: Arrange the pork chops on a bed of mashed potatoes or alongside roasted vegetables. Drizzle the sauce around the plate for a restaurant-style presentation.
- Pairings: Pair with a light arugula salad dressed in vinaigrette or steamed asparagus for a balanced meal.