Baked Pork Chops

2 minutes ago

Say goodbye to dry, tough pork chops! This Baked Pork Chops recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chops every time—with a golden crust, tender interior, and minimal cleanup. Thanks to a simple seasoning blend and precise baking, you’ll get restaurant-quality results without standing over a stove.

Perfect for weeknights, yet elegant enough for guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

🥩 Juicy inside, golden outside—no more dry chops!
⏱️ 10 minutes prep, 20 minutes bake
💛 One pan = easy cleanup
💸 Costs under $8—feeds 4
🌾 Naturally nut-free & easily gluten-free

Ingredients You’ll Need

(Serves 4)

4 bone-in pork chops (¾–1 inch thick)
2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp smoked paprika (or regular)
½ tsp dried thyme or rosemary
Salt & black pepper to taste
Optional:
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (mixed with oil for extra flavor)
- - Fridge: Keeps up to 3 days—reheat gently in oven or air fryer.
  - Freeze: Cooked chops freeze well up to 2 months. Thaw overnight; reheat at 325°F.
  - - Heat 1 tbsp oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
    - Sear chops 2–3 minutes per side until golden. (Skip if using baking sheet.)Prep ahead: Season chops and refrigerate up to 4 hours before baking.Squeeze of lemon after baking
      
      1. Prep & Preheat
      - Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
      - Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment; place a wire rack on top (optional but recommended for even browning).
      2. Season the Chops
      - Pat pork chops dry with paper towels.
      - Rub with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
      3. Sear (Optional but Recommended)
    4. Bake to Perfection
    - Place chops on baking sheet or in skillet.
    - Bake 15–20 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
    - Rest 5 minutes before serving (juices redistribute—this is key!).
    Serving Suggestions
    - 🥔 Classic pairing: Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes
    - 🥦 Balanced plate: Steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or apple-cabbage slaw
    - 🍚 Comfort duo: Buttered egg noodles or wild rice pilaf
    - 🍷 Wine pairing: Pinot Noir or dry Riesling
    Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
  Frequently Asked Questions
  
  Q: Boneless vs. bone-in?
  A: Bone-in stays juicier and adds flavor—but boneless works too (reduce bake time by 3–5 mins).
  
  Q: Overcooked and dry?
  A: Use a meat thermometer! 145°F is safe (per USDA)—not 160°F like old guidelines.
  
  Q: No wire rack?
  A: Bake directly on foil—but flip halfway for even browning.
  
  Q: Gluten-free?
  A: Yes! All ingredients are naturally GF.
  
  ❤️ The Heart of the Dish
  
  Baked Pork Chops aren’t fancy—but they’re a testament to simplicity done right. With just a few spices and precise timing, you transform humble chops into something deeply satisfying.
  
  So season those chops, pop them in the oven, and trust the process. Because the best meals aren’t complicated—they’re juicy, golden, and made with love.