Introduction to Perfect Baked Pork Chops
Pork chops can sometimes get a bad reputation for being dry and flavorless. However, when cooked properly, pork chops are juicy, tender, and very satisfying. This easy pork chop recipe is perfect for busy weeknights because it comes together in a matter of minutes. All you need to do is mix a few spices together to make the perfect pork rub and turn your oven on.
Ingredients for Baked Pork Chops
To make this delicious recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 1-inch pork chops
- Olive oil for drizzling
- For the pork rub:
- 1 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar monkfruit (or regular brown sugar if not low carb)
- 1/2 tablespoon EACH chili powder and paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon EACH onion powder, garlic powder, and oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Oven Baked Pork Chops
The best baked pork chops can be made in just three simple steps. These pork chops are great with collard greens, a classic Wedge salad, or air fryer green beans.
Make the Pork Rub
Combine the spices in a small bowl or jar. Mix the spices well until completely combined. This spice mix is excellent on pork chops and pork tenderloin. If you want to make a double batch, it will make at least two meals worth of pork.
Pat the Pork Chops Dry
Using a paper towel, pat the pork chops dry. This is important because if the surface of the pork chops has moisture, that moisture will actually steam the chops instead of allowing the exterior of the chops to caramelize and brown during the cooking process.
Rub the Chops with Oil
Drizzle the pork chops with olive oil and make sure both sides are coated well. The oil will not only help the rub adhere to the pork, but it aids in keeping the pork chops juicy and helps the outside of the chops caramelize and brown perfectly. This is a step you do not want to skip.
Season the Pork Chops
Sprinkle the outside of the chops liberally with the spice rub. You want to make sure everything is coated nicely so each bite is loaded with flavor.
Bake
Place the pork chops on a lined or greased baking sheet. Bake the pork chops at 400 degrees F for 15 minutes. Using a meat thermometer, check the thickest part of the pork chops. When the internal temperature has reached 145 degrees F, remove them from the oven. Rest the pork chops for 5 minutes before slicing.
Serve
These pork chops pair well with basically anything. Some favorite side dish recipes include Green Bean Almondine, Air Fryer Cauliflower, or Kale Salad. They also go well with Keto Red Lobster Biscuits, and if you aren’t watching your carbs, Mom’s Mashed Potatoes are a no-brainer.
Storing and Reheating
To store these baked pork chops, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an air-tight container. If stored properly, these pork chops will be good in the fridge for up to 5 days.
To reheat the cooked pork chops, place them on a square of aluminum foil. Drizzle the pork chops with 1 tablespoon of broth. Fold the foil into a parcel as you would a foil pack recipe. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Heat the pork chops for 15 minutes until warmed. Heating them covered with a little bit of moisture will reduce the likelihood of the pork chops drying out.
FAQs
- How long to bake pork chops? One-inch pork chops will take approximately 15 minutes to cook. However, your pork chops may be slightly bigger or smaller, so use a meat thermometer.
- What temperature do you bake pork chops? For this recipe, we bake the pork chops at 400 degrees F.
- Do I have to flip the pork chops? No, you do not have to flip the pork chops during the cooking process.
- How do you know when pork chops are done? The USDA recommends an internal temperature of 145 degrees F.
- Why do you let pork chops rest? Allow the pork chops to rest 5 minutes before slicing. This gives the fibers in the meat and juices a chance to settle.
Additional Tips
- This recipe is not recommended for thick-cut pork chops. For the most perfect, juicy thick-cut pork chops, follow a specific tutorial designed for thicker cuts.
- To make the rub in a larger batch that will accommodate 2-3 pounds of meat, simply multiply the ingredients.
- Net carbs are 1 g per serving.
Nutrition Information
Per serving (1 baked pork chop):
- Calories: 182 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 2.2 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Fat: 7.3 g
- Cholesterol: 71 mg
- Sodium: 711 mg
- Fiber: 1.2 g
- Sugar: 0.3 g
