Baked pork loin chops are hard to beat for a delicious and hearty meal. Infused with rich flavours and baked to perfection, these Oven-Baked Pork Chops are easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive into this simple yet delightful recipe that will have you returning for more.

Baked Pork Loin Chops

There’s something comforting about biting into a perfectly baked pork loin chop. The tender, juicy meat paired with a flavorful seasoning makes for a delicious and budget-friendly meal. This recipe will guide you through creating mouth-watering pork loin chops that you can easily prepare at home.

Baked Pork Loin Chops Ingredients

Pork Loin Chops
Olive Oil
Mustard Grains
Italian Seasoning
Garlic
Chili Flakes
Paprika
Black Pepper
Salt
Lemon Juice
Onion Powder
Honey or Brown Sugar
Balsamic Vinegar

How to Make Baked Pork Loin Chops

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400℉. This will ensure it reaches the right temperature when you bake the pork loin chops. If you are using a baking sheet, line it with parchment paper and set it aside. If you prefer using a baking dish, there is no need to line it.

Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, mustard, Italian seasoning, garlic, chili flakes, paprika, black pepper, salt, lemon juice, onion powder, honey or brown sugar, and balsamic vinegar (if using). Mix all the ingredients well until they are fully combined.

Season the Pork Chops

Pat the pork loin chops dry with a paper towel. This will help the marinade stick to the meat. Rub the marinade generously on both sides of the pork chops, ensuring they are well-coated.

Bake the Pork Chops

Place the seasoned pork chops in the baking dish or on the lined baking sheet. If you are using bone-in chops, bake them at 400℉ for 30 minutes. For boneless chops, bake for about 15 minutes.

Broil for a Charred Look

Three minutes before the cooking time is over, turn the oven to broil. This will give the pork chops a nice, charred look. Be careful not to overcook the pork as it can dry out quickly. The pork is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 145℉.

Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest in the pan for 5 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Baked pork loin chops are versatile and can be paired with various side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the savory flavors of the pork chops.
Roasted Vegetables: A mix of roasted carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers adds color and nutrition to your meal.
Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pork chops.
Rice or Quinoa: These grains make for a hearty and healthy side dish.

Recipe Tips

Choose the Right Cut: For this recipe, you can use either bone-in or boneless pork loin chops. Bone-in chops tend to be juicier and more flavorful, while boneless chops cook faster and are easier to eat. Choose the cut that best suits your preferences and cooking time.
Pat Dry Before Seasoning: Always pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel before applying the marinade. This helps the seasoning adhere better to the meat and prevents excess moisture during baking.
Don’t Overcook: Pork can dry out quickly if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 145℉. This ensures the meat is cooked through but still juicy and tender.
Rest Before Serving: Letting the pork chops rest for a few minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more flavorful and tender meat. Don’t skip this crucial step!
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with the marinade ingredients to suit your taste. You can add herbs like rosemary or thyme, use different types of mustard, or adjust the amount of honey or brown sugar for sweetness. Personalizing the recipe can make it uniquely yours.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use a Different Type of Mustard?

Yes, you can use any type of mustard you prefer. Whole mustard adds a nice texture, while powdered mustard blends smoothly into the marinade. You can also try Dijon or spicy mustard for a different flavor profile.

What if I Don’t Have Italian Seasoning?

If you don’t have Italian seasoning, you can make your own blend using dried basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. Alternatively, use any herb blend you have on hand.

Can I Grill the Pork Chops Instead of Baking?

Yes, you can grill the pork chops instead of baking them. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the chops for about 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on thickness. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 145℉.

How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?

You can marinate the pork chops for as little as 30 minutes or up to 24 hours. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they will be. If marinating for more than an hour, cover the bowl and refrigerate.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade and coat the pork chops in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This can be a great time-saver for busy evenings.

What Should I Do with Leftovers?

Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350℉ oven until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, though they may lose some of their crispiness.

Baked pork loin chops are a simple and delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With the right seasonings and cooking techniques, you can create a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Follow this recipe and enjoy the delightful taste of perfectly baked pork loin chops.

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Carla B.

May 24, 2024 at 2:39 am

Can we Pan grill before baking? This looks so juicy and tasty

Baked Pork Loin Chops

Baked Pork Loin Chops

Baked Pork Loin Chops Ingredients