These Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops are juicy and packed with flavor! The crispy cheesy crust gives them a delicious twist that everyone loves. It’s like a party for your taste buds!
Honestly, I can’t get enough of that crunchy topping. Pair it with some veggies or a salad, and you have a perfect meal. Quick and tasty dinners are my jam! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend using bone-in pork chops as they stay juicier during cooking. If you prefer, boneless chops work, but watch the cooking time closely since they can cook faster.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano makes a nice substitute, offering a sharper taste. Just make sure it’s finely grated for the best crust.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko is light and super crunchy, perfect for a crispy texture. If you don’t have panko, use regular breadcrumbs but keep in mind they won’t be as crispy. You could even crush up crackers for a fun twist!
Egg: The egg serves as a binder for the crust. For an egg-free version, try using a bit of milk or a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) as a replacement.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crust on My Pork Chops?
Creating that crispy crust is all about the technique! Here’s how to do it right:
- Dry the Chops: Before you start, pat the pork chops dry to remove excess moisture. This helps the coating stick better.
- Coat Properly: Don’t skip the flour step! It helps the egg stick, which holds the breadcrumbs on. Make sure to shake off excess flour.
- Press Firmly: When coating with the breadcrumb mixture, press down gently to ensure it adheres well.
- Heat the Oil: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chops. The sizzling sound lets you know it’s ready, creating a great crust.
- Rest the Chops: Let the pork chops rest after cooking. This keeps them juicy and allows the juices to redistribute.
Follow these techniques, and you’ll end up with mouthwatering, crispy pork chops every time!
Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and around 10-12 minutes of cooking time. So, you can have a delicious meal ready in just 20-25 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better. Let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients. This little step makes a big difference!
2. Mix the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix them together until well combined. This cheesy, crunchy mixture will give your pork chops a fantastic flavor!
3. Get Your Dredging Setup Ready:
In another bowl, beat the egg. Place the flour on a plate for easy dredging. You’ll be using these shortly to coat the pork chops.
4. Coat the Pork Chops:
Take each pork chop and first dredge it in flour, shaking off any excess. This helps the egg coating stick. Next, dip it into the beaten egg, ensuring it is fully coated. Finally, press the pork chop into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, coating it evenly and firmly on both sides. This creates that tasty crust!
5. Heat Up the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Wait until the butter is melted and starts to foam. This means it’s ready to fry the chops!
6. Cook the Pork Chops:
Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Keep an eye on them to get that perfect crispy outside!
7. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for 3-5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to distribute throughout the meat, making them more juicy and flavorful!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if you like, and enjoy your crispy, delicious Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops! They pair wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.
Now grab your fork and dig in—you deserve it!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless pork chops! Just be mindful that they may cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on the cooking time and check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
How Do I Make These Pork Chops Spicier?
If you like a little extra heat, consider adding some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture. Start with 1/4 teaspoon and adjust to your taste for the perfect kick!
Can I Prep These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can coat the pork chops with the breadcrumb mixture up to a day in advance. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before frying.
What Should I Serve with Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops?
These chops pair well with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even creamy garlic mashed cauliflower for a delicious and balanced meal.