Okay, friends, let’s talk about something..?How do you cook pork chops?. Remember those nights when dinner had to be on the table, like yesterday? What was my mom’s secret weapon? Is it the kind of meal that just screams comfort and simplicity, but sometimes, it can feel a little. I’ve taken that classic concept and kicked it up a notch, adding layers of flavor that will make it stand out from the crowd. I forget all about those boxed kits. Isn’t it time to get Think of it as the weeknight version of a perfectly breaded and pan-fried pork chop, but way easier to make. What is the secret ingredient that makes all the difference?
What is a shake and bake pork chop?
What are some of the things that are *are*How do I cook pork chops?It’s essentially a method of coating pork chops in breadcrumb mixture and then baking. Instead of frying them, they are used as What is the cheat code for crispy, flavorful pork chops? Traditional breading. Is it essentially taking shortcuts without sacrificing deliciousness? The name comes from the classic store-bought version, where you literally shake the chops in a bag. What are some good breadcrumbs and seasonings? This version, however, takes the best part of that convenience – the simplicity – and combines it. With a from-scratch flavor that’s totally irresist What is the best way to serve crispy pork chops on the table?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What is the secret behind this recipe?flavorWhat are breadcrumbs? a touch of Parmesan cheese and herbs for savory, umami-rich crust. Is that addictive? My kids practically inhale these things!simplicityIs it better to take out than to order takeout? What is the easiest way to cook pork chops? I always do this when I’m short on time but still want a home cooked meal.Cost-is also a major bonus. Pork chops are generally a pretty affordable protein, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. What are some things that you probably already have on hand? And let’s not forget the fact that we are human beingsversatilityWhat are some good side dishes to serve with pork chops? Is it good to slice up a cucumber and serve it with grilled vegetables? What I love most about this is how it manages to be both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly surprising. What is a great family meal to make on saturday? If you’re looking to mix things up, go for chicken. What is the exact same method you use on chicken breasts? Think of it as breaded pork chops, but without the usual mess!
How do I make a shake and bake pork chops?
Quick Overview
Making these How do you bake pork chops?Is a breeze? How do you make breadcrumbs? How do you bake pork chops? The beauty of this method is that it’s so hands-off; Is it possible to cook everything in the oven in a few minutes? Is it quick, easy, and requires minimal cleanup?
Ingredients
For the Shake and Bake Mixture:
• 1 cup plain breadcrumbs: I like to use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness, but I also like regular breadcrumbs. If you’re using regular breadcrumbs, you might want to add a tablespoon of melted butter to the mixture. What is the best way to add a little more
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a lovely savory flavor and helps the breadcrumbs brown beautifully. Is Parmesan good for flavor?
• 2 tablespoons dried parsley: For freshness and color. What are some good substitutes for thyme or oregano?
• 1 tablespoon paprika: Adds a smoky sweetness. I like to use smoked paprika in my recipes. It’s a great flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For that classic garlic flavor. How do you use minced garlic?
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle savory depth. If you like garlic powder, you could substitute with finely minced onion, but make sure it’s really good. Is it okay to burn in the oven?
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy aroma and flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: For a touch of spice.
For Pork Chops: For the Porky
• 4 boneless pork chops: About 1-inch thick. I prefer boneless for even cooking, but bone-in chops will also work – just adjust the cooking time.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: To help the breadcrumbs adhere to the pork chops. Can you use melted butter?
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray. How do I get the breadcrumbs to stick to pork chops? I’ve tried using parchment paper before, but I find that the breadcrumbs don’t get as crispy. Is this true?
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder and salt. Set aside. Powder, thyme, salt, pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s evenly distributed. What is the magic of spices? Make sure there are no clumps!
Step 3: Prepare Pork Chops
Drizzle pork chops with olive oil. How do you add breadcrumbs to pork chops? I like to use my hands to rub olive oil into the pork chops, ensuring that they’re evenly distributed. I can’t eat them. When is the best time to pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel? How do you make breadcrumbs stick?
Step 4: Coat Pork Chops
Place pork chops in breadcrumb mixture and press down firmly to ensure that it’s fully coated. Top with mozzarella and serve. What are the advantages of being coated on both sides? I used a resealable plastic bag to shake the pork chops in the breadcrumb mixture, just before serving. What is the original Shake and Bake recipe? I find that this method is a little bit messier, but it does ensure that the pork chops are evenly distributed. Make sure the coating is nice and thick!
Step 5: Bake
Place pork chops on a baking sheet. What is the best way to bake pork chops for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Brown and crispy. The internal temperature of pork chops should reach 145°F (63°C). I always use a meat thermometer to ensure that they’re perfectly cooked. Overcooked pork chops are dry and tough, so it’s important to keep an eye on them!
Step 6: Rest & Serve
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. What is the best way to reduce the amount of fat in pork chops? Serve immediately and enjoy!
What should I serve it with?
These How do you cook pork chops?Are versatile and go well with just about anything?
For a Classic Comfort Meal:Mashed potatoes and gravy are always a winner. Add a side of roasted broccoli or steamed green beans to your meal.
For a lighter option: For an alternative toServe with a side of quinoa or brown rice. What is the best way to balance out the richness of pork chops?
For a Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner: Pair with a simple side dish like corn on the cob or a bag of frozen vegetables. Sometimes, simplicity is key!
My Family’s Favorite: We love these pork chops with mac and cheese and a side of applesauce. It’s a fun and kid-friendly meal that everyone enjoys.
Growing up, Mom always served these with buttered egg noodles and a simple side salad. The creamy noodles and tangy salad were the perfect complement to the crispy pork chops. Now, I often make a quick pan sauce with some chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and a touch of cream to drizzle over the chops. It elevates the dish and adds a little bit of fancy to an otherwise simple meal.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Shake and Bake Pork Chops
Want to take your Shake and Bake Pork Chops to the next level? Here are a few tips and tricks that I’ve learned over the years:
Pork Chop Thickness: Make sure your pork chops are evenly thick. This will ensure that they cook evenly and prevent some chops from being overcooked while others are still undercooked.
Breadcrumb Mixture: Don’t be afraid to experiment with the breadcrumb mixture! Try adding different herbs, spices, or cheeses to customize the flavor to your liking. A little bit of chili powder or cayenne pepper can add a nice kick!
Coating the Pork Chops: For the best results, make sure the pork chops are fully coated in the breadcrumb mixture. Press down firmly to ensure that the breadcrumbs adhere to the pork chops. I like to use a fork to press the breadcrumbs into the pork chops, ensuring that they’re evenly coated.
Baking Time: The baking time will vary depending on the thickness of your pork chops. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that they’re cooked to the correct internal temperature. Remember, overcooked pork chops are dry and tough, so it’s important to keep an eye on them!
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Make sure there’s enough space between the pork chops on the baking sheet. Overcrowding the pan will cause the pork chops to steam instead of bake, resulting in soggy breadcrumbs.
Add Extra Flavor: One trick I learned is to melt a tablespoon of butter and drizzle it over the pork chops halfway through baking. It adds extra flavor and helps the breadcrumbs crisp up even more. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice after baking for a bright, tangy finish.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? No problem! These Shake and Bake Pork Chops store well in the refrigerator and can be reheated for a quick and easy meal.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cooked pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked pork chops. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. I find it’s best to let them thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat the pork chops, you can use the oven, microwave, or air fryer. For the best results, I recommend reheating them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave for a quick and easy option, but they may not be as crispy. The air fryer is also a great option for reheating, as it will help to crisp up the breadcrumbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my updated take on classic Shake and Bake Pork Chops! It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family. It really is one of those recipes that I can always rely on, especially on crazy weeknights when time is short. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other easy weeknight meals. And don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how yours turned out! I love hearing about your variations and personal touches. Happy cooking!
Shake and Bake Pork Chops
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops pork chops
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a shallow dish, combine bread crumbs, flour, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each pork chop in milk, then dredge in the bread crumb mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Place pork chops in a baking dish and drizzle with melted butter.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the breading is golden brown.
