Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops

Everything is better with cheese and these Parmesan crusted pork chops are no exception. They are juicy, tender and high in protein and come together quickly with little effort (the prep is, dare I say it, kind of fun!). Coated with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese and not requiring much more than that, these pork chops are ready-made to mix up the weeknight meal routine—and they’ll make the kitchen smell amazing as you cook.

For a hearty dinner, pair with some roasted potatoes, arugula salad or roasted broccoli.

Ingredients for Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops

• Pork tenderloin: It cooks quickly because pork tenderloin is lean so make sure to keep an eye on it to keep it as tender as possible.
• All-purpose flour: A light coating of all-purpose flour ensures that your other ingredients stick to the pork and that you get a nice crispy crust.
• Eggs: Lightly beaten eggs provide the stickiness to get your bread crumb mixture to stick to the pork.
• Bread crumbs: These provide the crust for your pork chops (and you can use homemade bread crumbs if you have leftover bread).
• Parmesan cheese:Parmesan cheese is part of the bread crumb mixture. It adds savoriness and saltiness to your pork chops.
• Lemon wedges: A spritz of lemon on top of your finished dish adds zest, brightness and a little bit of acid.

Directions

Step 1: Cut the pork

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Cut the pork diagonally into eight slices and pound each to 1/4-inch thickness.

Step 2: Bread the pork

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Place the flour and eggs in separate shallow bowls. In another shallow bowl, combine the bread crumbs, cheese and salt. Dip the pork in the flour, then in the eggs and finally in the bread crumb mixture.

Step 3: Cook the pork

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In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork in batches and cook until a thermometer reads 145°F. This should take two to three minutes on each side. Remove from the pan and keep warm once cooked. Serve the pork chops with lemon wedges.

Editor’s Tip: Make sure not to overcrowd your pan while cooking.

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Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops Variations

• Get spicy: Amp up the flavors by including herbs and spices or even a little cayenne powder into your bread crumb mixture.
• Don’t forget the sauce: Top with marinara sauce, which will play well with the Parmesan. You can also serve with some ketchup on the side.
• Add more cheese: If the Parmesan isn’t enough for your cheese needs, you can always top with some mozzarella. Add it on right before you finish cooking so it melts.
• Protein power: You can use different types of protein in this recipe. Chicken or pork chops are delicious (rather than a pork tenderloin).

How to Store Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops

You can store your parmesan crusted pork loin chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Can you freeze parmesan crusted pork chops?

You can indeed. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months. If you have quite a few left over, separate them based on serving size so they’re easier to thaw and reheat.

Parmesan Crusted Pork Chop Tips

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How can I keep my pork chops from drying out?

A meat thermometer is your best friend, especially with boneless pork chops that can dry out if the internal temperature gets too high. I’m personally very reliant on my thermometer because it takes all the uncertainty out of cooking more finicky meats.

Can I make this parmesan crusted pork chop recipe in the oven?

For sure. For best results, we recommend searing on the stove first before finishing in the oven.

Can you make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely! Just swap in a gluten-free all-purpose flour and bread crumbs.