Get ready for some mouthwatering baked pork chops! These juicy chops are seasoned just right and bake to perfection for a tender bite that everyone will love.
Trust me, these pork chops are a family favorite in my house. I like to serve them with mashed potatoes or veggies on the side. They’re simple and always satisfying! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Use bone-in or boneless pork chops, about 1 inch thick. Bone-in chops are juicier, but boneless ones cook faster. If you’re trying to keep things lean, consider using pork tenderloin instead.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps the seasoning stick. If you’re looking for an alternative, canola or vegetable oil will work just fine. I prefer extra virgin olive oil for its flavor!
Spices: This recipe uses garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme for robust flavor. Feel free to swap thyme with rosemary or sage, or use fresh herbs if you have them. They add a lovely freshness!
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional for a bit of heat. For a milder flavor, just skip it. If you love spice, add more or include red pepper flakes.
How Do I Get My Pork Chops Perfectly Sear and Juicy?
Getting those pork chops juicy begins with proper searing. Follow these steps to achieve that golden-brown crust and maintain moisture.
- Start by patting the pork chops dry. This prevents steaming and allows for better browning.
- Heat your skillet until hot before adding the oil to ensure a good sear. You should hear a sizzle when the chops hit the pan!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If your skillet is small, sear in batches to allow space for even cooking.
- Cook them for about 2-3 minutes per side without moving them, so they develop that nice crust. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 145°F (63°C) for juicy chops.
- Letting them rest after cooking is key. This helps the juices redistribute, so they stay moist when you cut into them.
Juicy Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for slight heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and another 15-20 minutes for cooking, depending on the thickness of the pork chops. Make sure to set aside an extra 5 minutes for resting after baking. In total, you’ll need about 30-35 minutes to have a delicious meal ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to preheat at 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for baking the pork chops once they’re seasoned and seared.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Next, take some paper towels and pat each pork chop dry. This step is crucial as it helps to create a nice crust when you sear them in the pan.
3. Mix the Seasonings:
In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper, if you like a little heat. Stir the mixture well to combine all the flavors.
4. Season the Chops:
Rub the olive oil all over both sides of each pork chop. Then, sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides, pressing gently to help it stick to the meat.
5. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat up a cast-iron skillet or an oven-safe pan over medium-high heat until it’s nice and hot. Add a little oil if necessary. Place the seasoned pork chops in the pan and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You want that beautiful golden-brown crust to form!
6. Bake in the Oven:
Once both sides are seared, carefully transfer the skillet with the pork chops into the preheated oven. Bake them for 8-12 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Rest and Serve:
After baking, take the pork chops out of the oven and let them rest on a plate for about 3-5 minutes. This resting period helps keep them juicy. Then, serve your delicious pork chops with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad!
Enjoy your juicy baked pork chops, perfectly seasoned and tender!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw them completely before cooking. You can do this by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight or using the cold water method in a sealed plastic bag. Make sure to pat them dry before seasoning to get a good sear!
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, vegetable oil, canola oil, or even melted butter will work well. Each adds a slightly different flavor, so choose based on what you enjoy!
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Remain Juicy?
Patting the chops dry before searing, using a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking, and letting them rest after baking are key steps to keeping them juicy. Avoid cutting into them right after cooking to retain the juices.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven or on the stovetop to help keep them moist. Adding a splash of broth or a bit of water in the pan can help in reheating without drying them out.
