Garlic Herb Crusted Pork Chop Dinner For One is a delicious, easy-to-make meal perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe brings together the robust flavors of garlic and herbs, creating a mouthwatering crust on the pork chop that’s sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is simple enough to follow and impressive enough to feel gourmet. Plus, it’s designed for one, making it an ideal option for solo dining.
Ingredients
- 1 boneless pork chop (about 6-8 ounces)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small lemon, cut into wedges
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chop
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the Pork Chop: Pat the pork chop dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, oregano, and parsley. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chop.
Step 2: Make the Herb Crust
- Prepare the Crust: In a separate bowl, mix the minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and stir to create a paste.
- Apply the Crust: Spread the garlic-Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of the seasoned pork chop, pressing it down to adhere.
Step 3: Cook the Pork Chop
- Sear the Pork Chop: Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chop, herb-crusted side down. Sear for 2-3 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
- Bake: Flip the pork chop over and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Step 4: Serve
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the pork chop from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Enjoy: Serve your Garlic Herb Crusted Pork Chop Dinner For One with your favorite side dishes. Consider pairing it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Tips and Variations
Tips
- Moist Pork Chops: To ensure your pork chop remains moist, avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Resting Time: Allowing the pork chop to rest after cooking helps retain its juices.
- Searing: Searing the pork chop before baking locks in the flavors and gives it a delightful crust.
Variations
- Slow Cooker: To prepare this dish in a slow cooker, sear the pork chop as directed, then transfer it to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or until tender.
- Air Fryer: For an air fryer version, preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Cook the herb-crusted pork chop for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Parmesan Crust: For an extra cheesy crust, increase the Parmesan cheese to 1/2 cup and mix with a tablespoon of breadcrumbs.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion
Garlic Herb Crusted Pork Chop Dinner For One is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. The combination of garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese creates a delicious crust that pairs wonderfully with a juicy pork chop. This easy recipe is sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire. Don’t forget to try the different variations and share your experience with us. Enjoy your meal.