Baked Pork Chops

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Pork Chops are a simple yet satisfying dinner staple—juicy, tender, and full of flavor with minimal prep. Seasoned with pantry spices and oven-baked to perfection, these pork chops turn out golden on the outside and moist on the inside every time. Perfect for busy weeknights, they pair beautifully with veggies, potatoes, or a crisp salad.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless or bone-in pork chopsolive oilgarlic powderonion powderpaprikadried thyme or Italian seasoningsaltblack pepperbrown sugar (optional for a hint of sweetness)fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish or line with foil for easy cleanup.

Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil.

In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried herbs, salt, pepper, and brown sugar if using.

Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops.

Place pork chops in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.

Bake for 18–22 minutes, depending on thickness, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Optional: Broil for the last 2 minutes for a golden, slightly crisp finish.

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 pork chops.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 18–22 minutes
Resting time: 5 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use bone-in chops for added flavor and juiciness.

Add a squeeze of lemon or a splash of balsamic before serving.

Swap seasonings to match your favorite cuisine (e.g., Cajun, BBQ rub, or garlic herb).

Top with sautéed mushrooms and onions for a steakhouse-style twist.

Add sliced apples or a honey-mustard glaze for a sweet-savory pairing.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through or microwave gently to avoid drying out.Freeze cooked pork chops for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How do I keep pork chops from drying out?

Don’t overcook—remove at 145°F internal temp and let rest to retain juices.

Should I cover them while baking?

No need unless you’re baking very thin chops. Uncovered yields better browning.

Can I use thick-cut pork chops?

Yes, just increase baking time and monitor internal temperature.

Do I need to marinate?

Not necessary, but you can marinate in olive oil, lemon, and herbs for extra flavor.

Can I bread them?

Yes, coat in seasoned breadcrumbs for a crispy baked version.

What sides go well with pork chops?

Mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, rice pilaf, or a green salad.

Are these gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your spices are certified gluten-free.

Can I cook them in a cast iron pan?

Yes, sear first for color, then finish in the oven.

Can I make them spicy?

Add cayenne or crushed red pepper to the seasoning mix.

What’s the best pork chop thickness?

About 1 inch thick is ideal for baking evenly without drying out.

Conclusion

Baked Pork Chops are a delicious, no-fuss dinner that’s big on flavor and easy to customize. With juicy meat, crisp edges, and a perfect blend of spices, this dish proves that simple ingredients can create a mouthwatering meal. Weeknight dinner just got a whole lot better!

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