These Best Baked Pork Chops are juicy and flavorful, coated with a tasty mix of spices. They’re super easy to make and perfect for a cozy dinner!
Making these chops is as simple as seasoning and popping them in the oven. I love serving them with mashed potatoes—it’s a hit at my table every time!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are best for flavor and moisture, but you can substitute with boneless if preferred. Just adjust the cooking time as boneless chops cook faster.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the pork. If you want a different flavor, try avocado oil or melted butter. They work well too!
Spices: Garlic and onion powders give a depth of flavor. If you want to skip these, fresh garlic and onions can be used instead, but adjust for freshness.
Smoked Paprika: It provides a lovely smoky flavor. If unavailable, regular paprika or cayenne (for heat) can work as alternatives.
Herbs: Dried thyme and oregano are great for seasoning. You can substitute with Italian seasoning for a similar taste.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Baked Pork Chops?
A key step is to ensure your pork chops stay juicy and flavorful. Here’s how to get the best result:
- Pat the pork chops dry before seasoning. This helps the oil and spices stick better and leads to a nice crust.
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the chops inside—this helps them cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. This step is crucial; 145°F is the sweet spot for juicy pork.
- Let the chops rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender.
Best Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Seasoning Blend:
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
To Garnish:
- Fresh parsley
For Serving:
- Mashed potatoes (or your favorite side dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare the pork chops and the seasoning, and then 25-30 minutes to bake them in the oven. So, in total, plan for about 40 minutes, including resting time for the pork chops. It’s a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important to ensure your pork chops cook evenly and nicely.
2. Make the Seasoning Blend:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix them together well so that all the flavors blend nicely.
3. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to get a nice golden crust on the outside. Rub each chop with olive oil to keep them moist and to help the seasoning stick.
4. Season the Chops:
Generously sprinkle both sides of the pork chops with the seasoning blend you just made. Make sure they are well-coated for the best flavor!
5. Arrange for Baking:
Place the seasoned pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a baking dish. Spacing them out a bit will help them cook evenly.
6. Bake the Chops:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You want the internal temperature to reach 145°F (63°C), and the chops should be nicely browned.
7. Rest the Pork Chops:
Once baked, take them out of the oven and let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices locked in, making them more tender when you cut into them.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a nice touch. Serve your baked pork chops with delicious mashed potatoes or your favorite side dish.
Enjoy your delicious baked pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! You can substitute boneless pork chops for bone-in ones. Just adjust the cooking time, as boneless chops may cook faster. Start checking for doneness at around 20 minutes. Remember, you want the internal temperature to reach 145°F (63°C).
What if I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No worries! If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika or even chili powder for a bit of heat. The flavor will be slightly different, but it’ll still be delicious!
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Overnight?
Yes, marinating the pork chops can enhance their flavor! Combine the olive oil and seasoning blend, and coat the chops evenly. Place them in a sealed container and refrigerate overnight. Make sure to bring them to room temperature before baking for even cooking.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to keep moisture in.
