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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great since the bone adds flavor and helps keep them juicy. If you prefer boneless, that works too! Just watch the cook time to prevent drying out.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil gives a nice flavor, but you can swap it for canola or avocado oil in a pinch. They have a higher smoke point and work well for roasting.
Spices: The spice mix of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper is perfect for seasoning. If you want a kick, try adding cayenne or swapping oregano for Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley is perfect for garnish, adding freshness. If you don’t have it, consider fresh cilantro or even green onions as alternatives.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Juicy and Flavorful?
To get juicy and tender pork chops, you need to focus on a couple of key steps. First, patting the pork chops dry helps the seasoning stick better. Then, covering them thoroughly with the spice mixture ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
- Rub the chops with olive oil; this helps the spices stick and promotes browning.
- Don’t skip the resting step after cooking. Letting them rest for about 5 minutes gives the juices time to redistribute.
How to Make Best Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- For Serving:
- Mashed potatoes (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 40 minutes from start to finish, plus a little extra time for resting the pork chops before serving. It’s a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your pork chops cook evenly and become nice and juicy!
2. Prepare the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This will be your flavorful seasoning for the pork chops!
3. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the oil and spices stick better. Next, rub each chop with olive oil on both sides. Don’t be shy—get them well coated!
4. Season the Chops:
Generously season the pork chops with your spice mixture. Make sure to coat them well so every bite is packed with flavor!
5. Bake the Pork Chops:
Place the seasoned pork chops in a baking dish and pop them into your preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chops reaches 145°F (63°C). A meat thermometer is super handy for this!
6. Let Them Rest:
Once your pork chops are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices stay locked in—making them even more delicious!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before you serve, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a nice touch. Serve your tasty baked pork chops alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a delightful meal!
Enjoy your delicious baked pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! Just reduce the cooking time to around 20-25 minutes since they tend to cook faster than bone-in chops. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have All the Spices?
No problem! You can substitute with a pre-made seasoning blend that includes similar flavors, such as Italian seasoning or a BBQ rub. If you’re missing one or two spices, feel free to skip them or use a bit more of the ones you do have!
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave for a couple of minutes or warm them gently in a skillet to maintain tenderness.
Can I Freeze Baked Pork Chops?
Absolutely! Once fully cooled, wrap the pork chops tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
