Parmesan Baked Pork Chops Recipe

The best recipes are often the simplest, and these Parmesan Baked Pork Chops are proof. The first time I made them, I was looking for a quick and easy dinner that felt indulgent but wouldn’t require hours in the kitchen. I wanted something crispy, flavorful, and satisfying—without the fuss of frying. That’s when I discovered that the magic of Parmesan and breadcrumbs could create a golden, crunchy crust in the oven, no deep frying required!

As soon as they started baking, my kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of garlic, herbs, and roasted cheese. That first bite? Pure perfection. The crust had a rich, nutty crunch, while the pork was tender and juicy on the inside. It instantly became a staple in my house—one of those go-to recipes for busy weeknights or when I need a no-fail crowd-pleaser. And the best part? It’s simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough for a special occasion.

Let’s dive into this easy, foolproof recipe that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds!

Short Description

These Parmesan Baked Pork Chops are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with flavor! Coated in a blend of Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and savory seasonings, they bake to golden perfection—no frying required. An easy, delicious dinner for any night of the week!

Key Ingredients

• 4 boneless pork chops
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons milk
• Cooking spray or olive oil

Tools Needed

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or cooking spray
• Shallow dishes for dredging
• Whisk
• Tongs
• Meat thermometer

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Make the Breading
In a shallow dish, combine the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, flour, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Wash
In another shallow dish, whisk together the egg and milk until well combined.

Step 4: Coat the Pork Chops
Dip each pork chop into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off. Then, press it firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides.

Step 5: Bake
Place the coated pork chops on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or brush them with olive oil to help crisp up the coating. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the crust is golden brown.

Step 6: Rest & Serve
Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in the juices.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy & Flavorful: The Parmesan and breadcrumb crust is golden, crunchy, and packed with savory goodness.

Easy & Foolproof: No frying, minimal prep, and a quick bake time make this perfect for busy nights.

Juicy & Tender: Baking at the right temperature ensures perfectly cooked pork chops that aren’t dry.

Versatile: Pair it with any side dish—salads, roasted veggies, or mashed potatoes.

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

Not patting the pork chops dry: Excess moisture prevents the breading from sticking. Pat them dry with paper towels before coating.

Skipping the oil spray: A light spray helps the coating crisp up instead of getting dry.

Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to avoid dry, tough pork chops. Remove them at 145°F.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

– Side Dishes: Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh Caesar salad.
– Sauce Ideas: Serve with honey mustard, garlic aioli, or marinara sauce.
– Best Drinks: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer pairs beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Tips

– Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
– Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
– Reheat: Bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or air-fry at 375°F for 5 minutes for a crispy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in pork chops?
Yes! Increase the cooking time by about 5-10 minutes, depending on thickness.

2. Can I use panko instead of regular breadcrumbs?
Absolutely! Panko will give you an extra crispy coating.

3. What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
You can substitute with finely grated Romano or Asiago cheese.

4. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

5. How do I know when my pork chops are done?
Use a meat thermometer—145°F is the perfect internal temperature for juicy pork chops.

Tips & Tricks

– Use thick-cut pork chops for extra juiciness.
– Letting the coated pork chops sit for 5 minutes before baking helps the breading adhere better.
– For extra crispiness, broil the pork chops for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Parmesan Pork Chops: Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat.

Italian-Style: Use Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs and serve with marinara sauce.

Lemon Herb: Add lemon zest to the breadcrumb mixture for a fresh twist.

Final Thoughts

Cooking these Parmesan Baked Pork Chops is always a satisfying experience. The crispy, golden crust paired with juicy, tender meat makes every bite worth savoring. I love how effortlessly this dish comes together with simple pantry ingredients, yet it delivers restaurant-quality flavor.

It’s the kind of meal that feels special enough for a weekend dinner but easy enough for a busy weeknight. Pair it with a fresh salad or roasted veggies, and you’ve got a well-balanced, crowd-pleasing dish. Plus, the leftovers are just as tasty the next day, making meal prep a breeze. If you haven’t tried baking pork chops this way before, this recipe is a great place to start. I hope you enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!