Crispy Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops with Marinara & Mozzarella: An Easy Family Meal
Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with these incredible Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops! This recipe is a true showstopper among simple pork chop dishes, promising to make your mouth water from the very first glance. Imagine tender, juicy pork chops enveloped in a golden-brown Parmesan crust, seared to perfection in a skillet, then generously topped with a rich marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese, before being finished in the oven. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that comes together surprisingly fast, making it an ideal choice for any night of the week.
When it comes to crafting easy weeknight meals that don’t compromise on flavor, my Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops with a vibrant tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese are truly hard to beat. This dish has earned its place as a family favorite for good reason.
The combination of a perfectly juicy pork chop, the savory depth of marinara, and the irresistible pull of melted, gooey cheese creates a culinary experience that’s both comforting and exciting. This skillet pork chop recipe is remarkably simple to prepare, yet delivers a gourmet taste that everyone adores. Plus, pork chops are an excellent source of lean protein, making this a meal you can feel good about serving.
You’ll be amazed at how quickly this delectable dinner comes together – just 5 minutes of preparation time and a mere 15 minutes to cook! The result? Tender, succulent chops crowned with a beautifully crispy Parmesan crust. It’s one of those reliable, easy dinner recipes you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. Imagine having a wholesome, restaurant-quality meal on the table in under 20 minutes – that’s a winning dish for those busy weeknights! If you’re a true connoisseur of pork chops, this recipe is an absolute must-try.
Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Crusted Pork Chop Recipe
- Effortlessly Delicious: A few simple ingredients transform into a deeply flavorful meal with minimal effort.
- Speedy Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking, dinner is on the table in a flash.
- Crispy, Cheesy Perfection: The Parmesan crust adds an incredible texture, while the melted mozzarella and marinara create a luscious topping.
- Family-Friendly: This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will adore.
- Versatile & Customizable: Easily adaptable to your family’s preferences and what you have on hand.
- High in Protein: Pork chops offer a substantial protein boost, keeping you full and satisfied.
For those who love to explore different pork preparations, I frequently rotate these Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops with other fantastic recipes like my Pan Seared Pork Chops, delightful Maple Bourbon Pork Chops, my incredibly Easy Baked BBQ Pork Chops, a hearty Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder, or these flavorful Grilled Hawaiian Pork Chops. Each offers a unique flavor profile while celebrating the versatility of pork.
And if you’re looking to feed a larger gathering, don’t miss my robust slow cooker pork shoulder roast.
Recipe Ingredients You’ll Need for Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops
Crafting these delectable Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops requires just a handful of simple, fresh ingredients. Below is an overview of what you’ll need. For precise measurements and step-by-step printable instructions, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card at the bottom of this page.
- Pork Chops: For this recipe, you have flexibility with your choice of pork chops. Both boneless chops and bone-in pork chops will yield fantastic results. Boneless chops tend to cook a bit faster and are easier to eat, while bone-in chops can often offer a little more flavor and moisture. Aim for chops that are about 1-inch thick for even cooking.
- Parmesan Coating: The star of the show for that irresistible crust! Our chops are coated in a flavorful mixture that combines finely grated Parmesan cheese, crispy breadcrumbs (Panko breadcrumbs work wonderfully for extra crunch), and a fragrant blend of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This coating creates a golden, savory exterior that locks in the pork’s juices.
- Oil: I prefer to sauté the pork chops in a good quality olive oil, which adds a subtle Mediterranean flavor. However, you can easily substitute any light-flavored vegetable oil like canola, grapeseed, or sunflower oil. The key is to use an oil with a high smoke point for effective searing.
- Marinara Sauce: A generous cup of delicious marinara sauce is spread over the Parmesan-crusted pork chops before baking. While any good quality store-bought marinara will work beautifully for convenience, consider making your own sauce from scratch. It’s incredibly rewarding and allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring no added preservatives. My Crock Pot Marinara Sauce recipe is wonderfully easy to prepare at home and can be made in advance.
- Mozzarella: To finish these chops with a truly indulgent touch, they are covered with a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. As it bakes in the oven, the mozzarella melts into a perfectly gooey, bubbly, and golden topping, complementing the rich marinara and crispy pork. Freshly shredded mozzarella often melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.
How to Cook Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops: Step-by-Step Guide
Creating these sensational Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Follow these simple steps for a truly delicious meal:
Step 1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). This ensures the oven is at the optimal temperature for melting the cheese and finishing the chops, so they cook through evenly and quickly.
Step 2. Prepare the Pork Chops: Pat your pork chops dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps create a better crust during searing. Season both sides of the pork chops generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. In a shallow bowl (a pie plate or wide dish works well), combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, Italian seasonings, and garlic powder. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even coating.
Step 3. Dip in Breadcrumbs: Take each seasoned pork chop and carefully dip it into the breadcrumb mixture. Press down firmly on both sides to ensure that the chop is completely and evenly coated with the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture. This creates the delicious crispy crust that defines this dish.
Step 4. Sear the Pork: Heat the olive oil (or chosen vegetable oil) in an oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the pork chops – a sizzling sound indicates it’s ready. Carefully place the breaded pork chops into the hot skillet. Sear each pork chop for approximately 2 minutes per side, or until it achieves a beautiful golden-brown color and a satisfyingly crispy crust. This searing step is crucial for developing flavor and texture. Once seared, turn off the heat, keeping the chops in the skillet.
Step 5. Bake the Chops: With the seared chops still in the oven-proof skillet, spoon approximately 1/4 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the top of each pork chop. Then, generously sprinkle about 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the marinara on each chop. Transfer the entire skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 6-8 minutes, or until the marinara sauce is thoroughly warmed through and the mozzarella cheese has melted into a bubbly, golden, and irresistible topping. The exact cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your chops and your oven.
Step 6. Serve the Chops: Once baked, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. For an extra touch of freshness and color, top the chops with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. Allow the chops to rest in the skillet for 5 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, ensuring your pork remains incredibly moist and tender. Serve immediately with your favorite side dish, such as spaghetti, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables.
Pro Tips for Perfect Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops
- Pat Dry for Crispy Crust: Always pat the pork chops very dry with paper towels before seasoning and coating. Excess moisture can lead to a soggy crust instead of a crispy one.
- Even Coating is Key: Ensure each chop is thoroughly coated with the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture. Press firmly to help the coating adhere well.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Sear the pork chops in batches if necessary, to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Crowding can lower the pan temperature, steaming the chops instead of searing them to a golden crisp.
- Use an Oven-Safe Skillet: Using a cast-iron or other oven-safe skillet means you can go straight from stovetop to oven, minimizing cleanup and preserving all those delicious pan drippings.
- Monitor Internal Temperature: For the most tender and juicy pork, use an instant-read meat thermometer. Pork chops are perfectly cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Rest Your Meat: After baking, let the pork chops rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop.
Storage Tips for Leftovers
If you happen to have any delicious leftovers (which is a big “if”!), allow the Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops to cool completely to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures they remain fresh and safe to eat. To reheat, you have a couple of options: you can gently microwave them until warmed through, or for a crispier crust, slowly heat them in the oven at 300 degrees F (150 degrees C) until hot. Adding a splash of extra marinara can help keep them moist during reheating.
What to Serve with Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops
These flavorful pork chops are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
- Pasta: Classic spaghetti or linguine tossed with extra marinara sauce is always a winner.
- Green Salad: A simple, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, green beans, or a mix of colorful bell peppers roasted with olive oil and garlic.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra marinara sauce.
- Rice or Quinoa: A lighter alternative to pasta that complements the rich flavors.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting side that pairs beautifully with savory pork.
Recipe FAQ about Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops
Freezing these Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops is a great way to prepare meals in advance. First, ensure the cooked chops have cooled completely to room temperature. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze for about an hour until firm. This prevents them from sticking together. Once firm, transfer the chops to a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper if stacking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month for best quality. When you’re ready to enjoy them, remove the chops from the freezer and defrost thoroughly in the refrigerator overnight before heating them up in a moderately hot oven (around 350°F or 175°C) until warmed through, or gently reheat in a skillet on the stovetop.
Pork chops, especially lean cuts, are prone to drying out if overcooked. The key to keeping them wonderfully moist and tender lies in a few techniques. First, avoid cooking them too long in the skillet alone. I prefer to quickly sear my pork chops until they’re golden brown on both sides, which develops a beautiful crust and flavor without cooking them through completely. The real magic happens next: topping the chops with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese before finishing them in the oven. The rich, acidic tomato sauce provides moisture, while the melted cheese forms a protective layer, helping to keep the pork juicy. This two-stage cooking method ensures delicious, tender pork every time. Additionally, always remember to rest the pork chops for 5 to 10 minutes once they come out of the oven. This allows the internal juices to redistribute, preventing them from escaping when you cut into the meat.
To ensure your pork chops are perfectly cooked – juicy, tender, and safe to eat – it’s crucial to cook them to the correct internal temperature. Pork chops can quickly become dry and tough if overcooked. The USDA recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). To accurately check this, always use an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chop, avoiding the bone. Once the thermometer reads 145°F, remove the chops from the heat and allow them to rest for 5 minutes. During this resting period, the temperature will continue to rise slightly, and the juices will redistribute, resulting in incredibly moist and flavorful pork every time. Aiming for this specific temperature prevents chewy, dry pork and delivers optimal tenderness.
Variations and Customizations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or the breadcrumb mixture for a bit of heat.
- Herbaceous Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme into your marinara or sprinkle them over the cheese before baking.
- Cheese Swap: Experiment with other cheeses like provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses instead of mozzarella.
- Veggie Boost: Sauté some finely chopped onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms and add them to your marinara sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Different Meat: This crusted technique also works well with chicken cutlets!
Other Pork Recipes to Try:
Mediterranean
Pork Souvlaki with Tzatziki
Pork
Easy Pineapple Pork Chops
Pork
How to Bake Pork Chops in the Oven
Pork
Pork Burgers
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Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops
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Ingredients
- 4 pork chops, boneless or bone-in, about 1-inch thick
- Sea salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs, Panko recommended for crispiness
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella, shredded (freshly shredded melts best)
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200°C).
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Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
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In a shallow bowl, mix Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, Italian seasonings, and garlic powder until well combined.
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Dip each pork chop into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to ensure it’s well coated on both sides for a crispy crust.
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Heat oil in an oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the pork chops for about 2 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Turn off the heat.
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Spoon approximately 1/4 cup of marinara sauce over each pork chop in the skillet, then top each with about 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 6-8 minutes, or until the sauce is warmed through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- How to store leftovers: Allow the cooked chops to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- How to freeze: After cooling, flash freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight, freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.