These Cheesy Honey Mustard Pork Chops are a treat! Juicy pork is topped with a creamy, cheesy sauce that pairs perfectly with a tangy honey mustard flavor. Yum!
Honestly, every bite feels like a warm hug. I love serving them with mashed potatoes; it’s like a cozy dinner party on a plate! You’ll be coming back for seconds, guaranteed! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: You can use either bone-in or boneless pork chops, about an inch thick. Bone-in tends to be juicier, but boneless is easier to eat. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using chicken breasts instead!
Honey Mustard Dressing: This gives the chops their distinct flavor. If you can’t find it, you can mix equal parts honey and yellow mustard. Adjust the sweetness to your taste. You can also use a spicy mustard for an extra kick!
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to use a blend of cheeses for different flavors. Monterey Jack or Swiss are great alternatives. For a lower-calorie option, try using reduced-fat cheese.
Breadcrumbs: Panko adds extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work too. For a gluten-free version, choose gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a similar texture.
Cooked Bacon: This ingredient adds flavor and a nice crunch! If you want a vegetarian option, you can skip the bacon or use a plant-based bacon alternative.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Sear the Pork Chops?
Searing the pork chops is key to locking in juices and flavor. Here’s how to do it right!
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the olive oil. This helps create that nice golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. This ensures even cooking.
- Season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper just before searing. This enhances their flavor.
- Sear each side for 3-4 minutes until golden. You can gently lift one to check if it has a nice crust before flipping.
Letting the pork chops rest after cooking is important, too. This helps the juices redistribute, so they stay tender and juicy when you cut into them.
How to Make Cheesy Honey Mustard Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 6 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1 inch thick)
- 1/2 cup honey mustard dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For Seasoning:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 10 minutes for preparation and 25 minutes for cooking. In total, this delicious dish will take you around 35 minutes to get from the kitchen to your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot for baking the pork chops.
2. Prepare the Honey Mustard Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix together the honey mustard dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. This flavorful mixture will coat the pork chops beautifully!
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. While the oil heats, season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops. Sear each chop for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. After searing, transfer the chops to a greased baking dish.
4. Coat the Chops:
Brush each pork chop generously with the honey mustard mixture, making sure they are well coated. This will infuse the chops with a sweet and tangy flavor that is simply irresistible.
5. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the pork chops, creating a beautiful cheesy layer on top. Feel free to use as much cheese as your heart desires!
6. Create the Crunchy Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the crumbled bacon. Now sprinkle this tasty mixture over the cheese layer for an extra crunchy topping that will enhance every bite.
7. Bake the Chops:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Your pork chops are ready when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once out of the oven, let the pork chops rest for a few minutes. Finally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your cheesy honey mustard pork chops—your family will love them!
Can I Use Different Types of Mustard?
Absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet option, you can use Dijon or spicy brown mustard instead of honey mustard. Just add a touch of honey or maple syrup to balance the flavors if you like a hint of sweetness.
What If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
No worries! Regular breadcrumbs will work fine in this recipe. However, if you want an extra crunch, try adding some crushed crackers or cornflakes as a substitute. You could even mix in some grated parmesan for added flavor!
How Do I Know When the Pork Chops Are Done?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. Pork should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). After cooking, let them rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute for a juicier chop.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pork chops and layer them with the honey mustard mixture, cheese, and breadcrumbs a few hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re going into the oven chilled.
