Parmesan-crusted pork chops are a restaurant-quality dish easily achievable at home. This recipe delivers juicy, tender pork chops with a satisfyingly crunchy parmesan crust. It's a crowd-pleaser perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let's dive into creating this culinary masterpiece!
What Makes This Parmesan Crusted Pork Chop Recipe Special?
This recipe goes beyond a simple breading. We're focusing on building layers of flavor and texture. The combination of parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, and herbs creates a flavorful crust that's both crispy and aromatic. The pork chops are pan-seared to perfection, ensuring a juicy interior and a beautifully browned exterior. We'll also explore some variations to cater to different tastes and dietary needs.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prepare the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a good sear. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
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Create the Parmesan Crust: In a shallow dish, combine the parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, oregano, and basil. Mix well.
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Coat the Pork Chops: Press each pork chop firmly into the parmesan mixture, ensuring it's evenly coated on both sides.
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Sear the Pork Chops: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and foamy, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
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Cook to Perfection: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes for medium-rare or until the internal temperature reaches your desired level (145°F for medium, 160°F for well-done). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
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Rest and Serve: Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I use different cheeses in the crust?
Absolutely! Other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago would work well, adding unique flavor profiles. Experiment and find your favorite combination.
What if I don't have fresh herbs?
Dried herbs work perfectly fine! Just use the suggested amounts in the recipe.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can reduce the amount of butter or use a cooking spray instead of oil. You could also incorporate panko breadcrumbs, which are lower in fat than regular breadcrumbs.
What side dishes pair well with parmesan-crusted pork chops?
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, a simple green salad, or creamy risotto are all excellent choices to accompany these delicious pork chops.
Can I bake these instead of pan-frying?
Yes, you can bake the parmesan-crusted pork chops. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated pork chops on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Work in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning and even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your pork chops are cooked to your desired doneness.
- Let the pork chops rest: This step is crucial for preventing dry pork chops.
This parmesan-crusted pork chop recipe is a guaranteed winner. With its crispy crust and juicy interior, it’s a dish that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy!
