PARMESAN BAKED PORK CHOPS

Pork meat has really gotten a bad reputation calories-wise, but truly it is “the other white meat” and not that high in fat content if you know how to choose your cuts. It is very tasty meat and very versatile because of its mild flavor.

If you are looking for a low-fat way to enjoy it, please try these baked Parmesan pork chops. Yes, baked. This eliminates a lot of the calories by not frying them or sauteing them. They are crusted Parmesan pork chops that cook to perfection with bread crumbs.

They really take 5 minutes prep time, and the oven does all the cooking. Italian herbs in the breadcrumbs give them a delicious flavor that compliments perfectly the Parmesan cheese.

INGREDIENTS YOU NEED;

• 4 boneless pork chops
• 2 tsp olive oil
• ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese
• ⅓ cup Italian bread crumbs
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt

HOW TO MAKE BAKED PARMESAN PORK CHOPS?

1. Preheat the oven to 350F. Mix the Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, salt, pepper, and garlic powder on a plate.
2. Drizzle both sides of the pork chops with olive oil and rub to cover well.
   
3. Press the pork chops into the breadcrumb/Parmesan mixture and coat well on both sides.
4. For easier cleanup, line a baking dish with foil, spray with cooking spray. Place the pork chops in the dish and bake for 45 mins. 
   

WHAT TO SERVE WITH PARMESAN PORK CHOPS?

I like to serve my protein with a side of carbs and a side of veggies for a balanced meal. You can do rice, olive pasta, or mashed potatoes for the carbs, and any steamed or cooked veggie of your choice.

In this case, I made Mexican tomato rice (just blend a Roma tomato into the cooking liquid), and snow peas sauteed in a little garlic and soy sauce.

RECIPE TIPS

1. If your pork chops are more than ½ inches thick, I would recommend adding 10 more minutes to the baking time. Remember it is not safe to eat raw pork meat.
2. Line your baking dish with foil to cut down on dishwashing
3. When the baking time is over, if you want more color on your pork chops, you might want to set the oven to broil and cook them for a few more minutes
4. Not sure if they are fully cooked? Insert a knife a sharp knife into one, if the juices flowing out are clear, they’re done. If you see blood, give them a few more minutes

WHAT TO DO WITH THE LEFTOVERS?

You can store them in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days in the fridge, or freeze them for 3 to 4 months.

Just remember that cooked meat can become a bit tough when reheated, so cover them foil and stick them in the oven until heated through. I wouldn’t recommend reheating them in the microwave.