Looking for a simple, delicious dinner that feels fancy but takes minimal effort? These Parmesan Baked Pork Chops are exactly what you need. Coated in a savory blend of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and spices, then baked to golden perfection, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results straight from your oven.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or entertaining guests, Parmesan Baked Pork Chops strike the perfect balance between comfort food and gourmet. Inspired by Italian-American flavors, this recipe has become a favorite for its crispy crust and tender, juicy inside. And the best part? You probably already have the ingredients in your pantry!
Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Baked Pork Chops Recipe
- Quick and easy – Perfect for busy weeknights, it takes under 30 minutes to bake.
- Crispy outside, juicy inside – The Parmesan-breadcrumb coating creates a flavorful crust that seals in moisture.
- Minimal ingredients – Just a handful of pantry staples bring bold flavor.
- Kid-friendly – Even picky eaters love this golden, cheesy coating.
- Versatile – Pair it with veggies, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a full meal.
Ingredients Needed for Perfect Parmesan Baked Pork Chops
Here are the key ingredients that make this recipe shine:
- Boneless pork chops – Thick-cut for juicy, tender meat that holds up well in the oven.
- Parmesan cheese – Adds salty, nutty flavor and helps form a crisp, golden crust.
- Italian-style breadcrumbs – Brings seasoned crunch to the outer layer.
- Garlic powder & paprika – Enhance depth of flavor and give the coating a warm, rich color.
- Olive oil – Helps the coating stick and promotes even browning in the oven.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Parmesan Baked Pork Chops
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the coating.
In a shallow bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush pork chops with olive oil.
Coat both sides to help the crumb mixture stick and add crispness.
4. Bread the pork chops.
Press each chop firmly into the Parmesan mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Arrange on baking sheet.
Lay the chops flat with space in between for even cooking.
6. Bake for 25–30 minutes.
Flip halfway through. For extra crunch, broil the last 2 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
7. Rest before serving.
Let the pork chops sit for 3 minutes after baking to lock in juices.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Spice it up by adding cayenne pepper or crushed red chili flakes to the coating.
- Make it keto-friendly by swapping breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
- Try bone-in chops if you prefer a richer flavor—just add a few extra minutes of baking time.
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic finish.
How to Store & Reheat
To store:
Let pork chops cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat:
Place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
To freeze:
Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven for best texture.
Similar Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re a fan of savory, Parmesan-packed meals like these Parmesan Baked Pork Chops, you’ll definitely want to try these delicious recipes too:
- Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice – A flavorful twist on classic chicken scampi with buttery, cheesy rice that soaks up every drop of sauce.
- Savory Beef and Garlic Butter Linguine in Parmesan Cream – Rich, hearty, and ultra-creamy, this pasta dish is a comfort food dream come true.
- Garlic Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta – A quick and satisfying dinner loaded with bold garlic-Parmesan flavor and tender ground beef.
Each of these recipes brings out the best in garlic and Parmesan—perfect for cheese lovers and cozy meal seekers!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use bone-in pork chops?
Yes! Just increase the baking time by 5–10 minutes depending on thickness.
What’s the best way to tell if pork chops are done?
Use a meat thermometer. They’re ready when the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Can I use fresh Parmesan instead of pre-grated?
Absolutely—freshly grated Parmesan offers better flavor and melts into a crispier crust.
How do I keep the crust from falling off?
Make sure the pork chops are dry before coating, and press the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture in firmly.
Are Parmesan Baked Pork Chops healthy?
They’re a great protein-packed option, especially when baked instead of fried. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cheese or whole-wheat breadcrumbs.
These Parmesan Baked Pork Chops are everything you want in a dinner—easy, crispy, juicy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing dinner guests, they never disappoint. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your delicious results in the comments or tag us on social media. Happy cooking!
Parmesan Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork chops 1-inch thick
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease it.
- In a bowl, combine Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Brush both sides of pork chops with olive oil.
- Press pork chops into the Parmesan mixture, coating both sides.
- Place chops on baking sheet, spaced apart.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for extra crispiness.
- Let rest 3 minutes before serving. Garnish and enjoy!