Baked Pork Chops II is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This recipe is simple yet delicious, combining tender pork chops with a flavorful seasoning blend to create a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe.
Ingredients
For the Pork Chops
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
Optional Glaze
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures the pork chops cook evenly and develop a nice, crispy exterior without drying out.
Step 2: Prepare the Pork Chops
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a good sear.
- In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper.
- Rub the pork chops with olive oil, then evenly coat them with the spice mixture on all sides.
Step 3: Sear the Pork Chops
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step locks in the juices and adds a delicious crust.
Step 4: Bake the Pork Chops
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the pork chops for about 10-15 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature to ensure they are cooked perfectly.
Step 5: Optional Glaze
While the pork chops are baking, prepare the optional glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the glaze thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. After the pork chops have baked for 10 minutes, brush the glaze over them and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 6: Rest the Pork Chops
Remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
Tips and Variations
Tips
- Prevent Drying Out: To avoid dry pork chops, do not overcook them. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and let them rest after baking.
- Covered or Uncovered: Baking pork chops uncovered helps them develop a crispy exterior. However, if you prefer a more tender chop, you can cover them with foil halfway through baking.
- Flipping: There’s no need to flip the pork chops while baking if they are in an oven-safe skillet. The initial sear ensures even cooking.
Variations
- Herb-Crusted Pork Chops: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or sage to the spice rub for a different flavor profile.
- Maple-Mustard Glaze: Substitute the honey in the glaze with maple syrup for a slightly different but equally delicious glaze.
- 4 Ingredient Oven Baked Pork Chops: Simplify the recipe by using just pork chops, olive oil, salt, and pepper for a quick and easy meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
Conclusion
Baked Pork Chops II is a versatile and satisfying dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you stick to the basic recipe or experiment with the variations and tips provided, you’ll end up with a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and share your experiences with us in the comments below. Don’t forget to explore other amazing recipes on easycrispyrecipes.com and subscribe to our newsletter for more culinary inspirations.