This oven baked pork chops recipe is a simple and delicious way to prepare juicy and tender pork. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
The recipe allows for easy seasoning variations, making it versatile to suit your taste preferences.
Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops
Oven baked pork chops are a delightful choice for a satisfying meal.
With their golden brown exterior and juicy interior, they offer a wonderful combination of flavors and textures.
The key to achieving that perfect cook lies in the seasoning and baking process, which ensures that each chop is tender and full of taste.
Using simple ingredients like olive oil, garlic powder, and paprika, you can create a flavorful rub that enhances the natural taste of the pork.
This method allows for easy customization, so feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to make it your own.
Complementary Sides
To round out your meal, consider serving the pork chops with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans.
The rich, buttery flavor of the mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with the savory pork, while the green beans add a fresh, vibrant touch.
These sides not only enhance the overall presentation but also provide a well-balanced plate that satisfies both the palate and the eye.
The combination of textures—from the smooth potatoes to the crisp beans—creates a delightful dining experience.
Cooking Process
Preparing oven baked pork chops is straightforward and quick.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even cooking.
Patting the pork chops dry before seasoning is essential, as it helps achieve a nice sear and locks in moisture during baking.
Once seasoned, the chops should be placed on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Baking them for 20-25 minutes allows the flavors to meld while ensuring the meat reaches the ideal internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Resting for Juiciness
After removing the pork chops from the oven, allow them to rest for about 5 minutes.
This step is crucial as it helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more succulent bite.
Resting not only enhances the flavor but also improves the overall texture, making each chop tender and juicy.
This small wait is well worth the delicious outcome.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving, presentation matters.
Arrange the pork chops on a rustic wooden table, garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color.
This simple touch elevates the dish and adds a home-cooked feel that is inviting and warm.
Pairing the pork with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and vibrant green beans creates a visually appealing plate.
Consider adding a drizzle of gravy or a sprinkle of additional herbs to enhance the dish further.
Enjoying the Meal
Gathering around the table to enjoy a plate of oven baked pork chops is a wonderful way to connect with family and friends.
The comforting flavors and satisfying textures make it a meal that everyone will love.
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
So, set the table, serve up the chops, and enjoy a delightful meal together.
Easy Oven Baked Pork Chops
These pork chops are seasoned and baked to perfection, resulting in a flavorful dish that pairs well with sides like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables. The cooking process takes about 30 minutes and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better.
- Season the Chops: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and thyme or rosemary if using. Rub the mixture all over the pork chops.
- Bake: Place the seasoned pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a greased baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 0g