These oven-baked pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! With just a few spices, you can turn simple chops into a tasty meal that everyone will love. Yum!
I love how easy these are to make. Just season, bake, and enjoy your delicious dinner without all the fuss. Perfect for a busy weeknight! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and moisture. If you can’t find them, boneless chops work too—just watch cooking time since they cook faster!
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a nice flavor, but you can use vegetable oil or even melted coconut oil if you’re looking for a change. I prefer olive oil for its taste and health benefits.
Spices: If you don’t have garlic or onion powder, fresh minced garlic and chopped onions can work as substitutes. Adjust the quantity to your preference. Fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano can also enhance the flavor.
Butter: Butter gives a rich flavor, but if you prefer a healthier option, use more olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. It still tastes fantastic without it!
How Do You Achieve a Perfect Sear on Pork Chops?
Searing locks in juices and adds a delicious crust. Here’s how to do it well:
- Start with dry pork chops. Patting them with paper towels helps achieve that nice sear.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding oil and butter. This prevents sticking and creates that crust you want!
- Sear each side for 2-3 minutes without moving them to form a nice golden color. Avoid overcrowding the pan for even cooking!
Now you’re ready to bake them perfectly! Enjoy your oven-baked pork chops! 🍽️
Oven-Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh sprigs for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook, depending on the thickness of the pork chops. Let’s say about 30-35 minutes from start to finish, including some resting time for the chops to help keep them juicy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheating the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key to get everything nice and crispy. While it heats, we’ll get the pork chops ready!
2. Preparing the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better and get that lovely golden crust. Then, grab a small bowl and mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Seasoning:
Drizzle the olive oil over both sides of the pork chops and rub it in. Now, sprinkle the spice mixture all over the chops so they’re nicely coated with flavor.
4. Searing the Chops:
Next, heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the butter and let it melt. Once melted, add the pork chops to the skillet and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are nice and golden brown.
5. Baking Time:
Now it’s time to transfer the skillet to your preheated oven! Bake the pork chops for another 8-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy if you have one!
6. Resting and Serving:
Once done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven (it’s hot!). Let the pork chops rest for about 3-5 minutes; this helps them lock in the juices. If you have fresh thyme sprigs, sprinkle them on top before serving for a lovely touch!
Enjoy!
Now you’re ready to dig in! These oven-baked pork chops are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any meal. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind that they cook faster than bone-in chops, so check the internal temperature at around 6-10 minutes in the oven to avoid overcooking.
What Should I Do If My Pork Chops Are Too Thick?
If your pork chops are thicker than 1 inch, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer, aiming for 145°F (63°C) to ensure they’re safely cooked.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops for a few hours or overnight will enhance the flavor. Use a mixture of the spices with some yogurt or vinegar for tenderness and taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist.
