Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops are the kind of dinner that feels both elevated and easy—hearty enough to satisfy a big appetite, yet simple enough to pull together on a weeknight. These chops are seared to golden perfection, then smothered in a creamy garlic-parmesan sauce that clings to every bite. The result is a rich, savory dish that feels like a cozy night in, yet tastes like something you’d order at a rustic bistro.
With the irresistible aroma of sautéed garlic and the deep umami of melted parmesan, this meal strikes that perfect balance between comfort food and crowd-pleaser. Pair it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or even pasta for a full plate that no one can resist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Juicy, pan-seared pork chops with crispy edges.
A creamy garlic-parmesan sauce that’s packed with flavor.
Perfect for family dinners, yet impressive enough for guests.
Made with basic, affordable ingredients.
Ready in 35 minutes with minimal prep.
Ingredients
Perfectly Balanced Ingredients for Crispy, Flavorful Pork Chops. Here’s what you’ll need:
Bone-in pork chops: These are the stars of the dish. The bone adds flavor and helps keep the meat juicy.
Salt: A must for enhancing the natural flavors of the pork. It’s the simplest way to elevate your dish.
Black pepper: This adds a subtle kick. Freshly ground is best for maximum flavor.
Olive oil: Perfect for searing the pork chops. It adds richness and helps achieve that golden crust.
Garlic: Minced garlic brings a fragrant, savory depth. It’s the heart of this recipe.
Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a delightful cheesy crust. It melts beautifully and adds a nutty flavor.
Dried Italian herbs: A blend of oregano or basil complements the garlic and cheese, enhancing the overall taste.
Fresh parsley: This is for garnish. It adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
Feel free to get creative! You can add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness or swap the Parmesan for sharp cheddar if you’re feeling adventurous.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
Making Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready in no time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This step is crucial because it ensures even cooking. A hot oven helps the pork chops develop that beautiful golden crust while keeping the inside juicy.
Step 2: Prepare the Pork Chops
Next, pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and promotes a nice sear. Once dry, season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. This simple step enhances the natural flavors of the meat.
Step 3: Sear the Pork Chops
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the pork chops. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This step locks in the juices and creates a delicious crust.
Step 4: Add Garlic
After searing, it’s time to add the minced garlic. Stir it into the skillet for about a minute, being careful not to let it burn. Garlic adds a fragrant depth that elevates the dish to another level.
Reduce heat slightly and stir in garlic for 30 seconds, pushing pork chops to the side of the pan.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Herbs
Now, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and dried Italian herbs evenly over the pork chops. Make sure to cover them well for maximum flavor. The cheese will melt beautifully, creating a savory crust that’s hard to resist.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for best results—pre-shredded varieties may not melt smoothly.
Step 6: Bake the Pork Chops
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. This ensures your pork chops are perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
Optional Crispy Topping: For a crispy, golden topping, broil the pork chops for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Thicker chops may take up to 18 minutes; boneless may cook faster. Always use a thermometer.
Step 7: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender. Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Now, you’re ready to enjoy your Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops!
Tips for Success
Always let your pork chops come to room temperature before cooking for even cooking.
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; 145°F is your target.
For extra flavor, marinate the pork chops in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours.
Don’t skip the resting time; it’s key to juicy chops.
Experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist!
Equipment Needed
Oven-safe skillet: A cast-iron skillet works great, but any oven-safe pan will do.
Meat thermometer: Essential for checking doneness; a simple instant-read thermometer is perfect.
Paper towels: Handy for drying the pork chops before seasoning.
Spatula: Useful for flipping the chops during searing.
Variations
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant twist.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes into the garlic for a bit of heat.
Honey Glaze: Drizzle honey over the pork chops before baking for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
Low-Carb Option: Serve with a side of sautéed zucchini or cauliflower rice for a complete low-carb meal.
Cheese Swap: Try using feta or gouda instead of Parmesan for a different cheesy experience.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes: Pair with roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
Salad: A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the pork.
Drinks: Enjoy with a crisp white wine or a light beer to balance the flavors.
Presentation: Serve on a wooden board with lemon wedges for a rustic touch.
FAQs about Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook a bit faster than bone-in chops.
What can I serve with Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can mix and match to suit your taste!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I make these pork chops ahead of time?
While they’re best fresh, you can prepare the pork chops up to the baking step and refrigerate them. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve!
What’s the best way to check if the pork chops are done?
The most reliable method is to use a meat thermometer. Pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories.
The sizzle of the pork in the skillet, the aroma of garlic filling the air, and the anticipation of that first bite all come together to make dinner special.
This dish is a celebration of simple ingredients that transform into something extraordinary.
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, these pork chops will impress and satisfy.
So roll up your sleeves, embrace the joy of cooking, and let these Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops bring warmth to your table!
Delicious and easy-to-make Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops that are sure to impress everyone at the dinner table.
Ingredients
Scale
2 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as oregano or basil)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F.
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring to avoid burning.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and dried Italian herbs evenly over the pork chops.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F.
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
For a crispy topping, broil the pork chops for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.
To customize, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice over the chops before serving for a fresh flavor or substitute the Parmesan with a sharp cheddar for a different taste.
