Herb-Crusted Italian Baked Pork Chops
Savor the flavors of Italy with these Herb-Crusted Italian Baked Pork Chops! Coated in a savory blend of Italian seasoned breadcrumbs and herbs, these juicy pork chops are baked to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior and tender, juicy meat. Serve these delectable chops alongside traditional accompaniments like stuffing, cranberry sauce, cold slaw, and applesauce for a complete meal that promises comfort and satisfaction. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
lean pork chops
6 (Trimmed and patted dry)
Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
1 cup (Unflavored and seasoned)
Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons (Dried)
garlic powder
1 teaspoon (Dried)
dried rosemary
1 teaspoon (Crushed)
salt
to taste (Sea salt preferred)
black pepper
to taste (Freshly cracked)
Pam cooking spray
as needed (For greasing the pan)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
On a shallow plate, combine the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3
Dip each pork chop into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring all sides are evenly coated.
4
Place the coated pork chops on a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
5
Lightly spray the tops of the pork chops with Pam cooking spray to enhance crispiness during baking.
6
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F (63°C) and the pork chops are golden brown. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chops.
7
Remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
8
Serve alongside your favorite sides and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main flavor profile of these pork chops?
These pork chops feature a savory Italian herb profile with garlic, rosemary, and seasoned breadcrumbs.
What oven temperature is required for this recipe?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
How many pork chops does this recipe prepare?
This recipe is designed for 6 lean pork chops.
What type of breadcrumbs should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of Italian seasoned breadcrumbs.
How do I prepare the pork chops before breading?
You should trim any excess fat and pat the pork chops dry before coating them.
What ingredients are in the herb crust?
The crust consists of Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper.
How do I ensure the pork chops are evenly coated?
Combine the breading ingredients on a shallow plate and dip each pork chop into the mixture until all sides are covered.
What is the recommended baking time?
Bake the pork chops for 30 to 45 minutes, depending on their thickness.
What internal temperature should the pork reach?
The pork chops are safely cooked when they reach an internal temperature of at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit (63 degrees Celsius).
How can I make the exterior of the pork chops crispier?
Lightly spray the tops of the coated pork chops with Pam cooking spray before putting them in the oven.
Should I use parchment paper?
Yes, lining your baking sheet with parchment paper makes cleanup much easier.
What kind of rosemary is used in this recipe?
The recipe specifies using 1 teaspoon of crushed dried rosemary.
Can I use fresh pepper?
Yes, freshly cracked black pepper is preferred for the best flavor.
How much Italian seasoning is needed?
You will need 2 tablespoons of dried Italian seasoning.
Should I let the pork chops rest after baking?
Yes, let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after removing them from the oven to keep them juicy.
What are some suggested side dishes for this meal?
Traditional sides like stuffing, cranberry sauce, coleslaw, and applesauce pair well with these chops.
Is this recipe suitable for a weeknight dinner?
Yes, it is an easy recipe designed for busy weeknights or special gatherings.
Does this recipe use garlic powder?
Yes, it uses 1 teaspoon of dried garlic powder in the breading mixture.
What kind of salt should I use?
Sea salt is preferred for this Italian-style seasoning blend.
How do I know when the pork chops are done?
They should be golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
Is this a comfort food recipe?
Yes, these herb-crusted pork chops are described as a satisfying comfort food meal.
Do I need to grease the baking sheet?
The recipe suggests using parchment paper and Pam cooking spray to prevent sticking.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 main ingredients used to make these pork chops.
Can I use bone-in pork chops?
While the recipe specifies lean pork chops, you can use bone-in chops, though cooking times may vary.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
What tools do I need for the breading process?
You will need a shallow plate to combine the dry ingredients for dipping.
Why is Pam cooking spray mentioned?
It is used to grease the pan and to spray the tops of the meat to enhance crispiness.
Is this recipe considered Italian cuisine?
Yes, it uses Italian seasoning and breadcrumbs to achieve an Italian-inspired flavor.
Can I adjust the salt and pepper?
Yes, the recipe suggests adding salt and pepper to taste.
How do I store leftovers?
While not explicitly in the steps, cooked pork chops should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.