Garlic Parmesan pork chops have become my absolute go-to for a weeknight meal that feels special. I remember the first time I tried making them, I was aiming for a simple yet flavorful dinner, and this Garlic Parmesan pork chops recipe delivered beyond my wildest dreams! The aroma of garlic and sizzling pork filled my kitchen, promising a dish that was both comforting and sophisticated. These simple garlic Parmesan pork chops are so incredibly tender and packed with that irresistible savory, cheesy flavor. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
- Incredible Flavor: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and savory pork creates a taste sensation you won’t forget.
- Quick Preparation: You can have these easy garlic Parmesan pork chops on the table in about 35 minutes total.
- Tender and Juicy: We’ve perfected the technique to ensure you get wonderfully juicy garlic Parmesan pork chops every time.
- Budget-Friendly: Pork chops are a more affordable cut of meat, making this a great option for family dinners.
- Family Approved: Even picky eaters will devour these flavorful, cheesy pork chops.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a more elegant meal when entertaining guests.
- Low Carb Friendly: This recipe fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.
Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops Ingredients
Gathering these Garlic Parmesan pork chops ingredients is the first step to an amazing meal. I love how simple the list is, yet how much incredible flavor it creates. Here’s what you’ll need for these Garlic Parmesan pork chops with butter and savory sauce:
- 4 center-cut pork chops – about 1-inch thick for best results
- Salt and pepper, to taste – the essential flavor base
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning – for that classic herby note
- 1/4 cup flour (for dredging) – helps create a beautiful crust
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil – for searing the chops
- 1 cup chicken broth – the base of our luscious sauce
- 3/4 cup beef broth (or substitute more chicken broth) – adds depth to the sauce
- 1/4 cup heavy cream – for that rich, creamy texture
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – a secret ingredient for umami
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – adds a subtle tang
- 1 teaspoon honey – balances the savory flavors
- 1/2 chicken bouillon cube – boosts the overall savory taste
- 1/2 teaspoon each: onion powder, oregano, basil, parsley – a blend of aromatics
- 3/4 cup dry white wine – crucial for deglazing and flavor
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – the star of the show!
- 3 tablespoons butter – for richness and sautéing
- 3 tablespoons flour – to thicken the sauce into a perfect consistency
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – the cheesy goodness
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice (optional) – brightens everything up at the end
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
- Step 1: First, I like to pound the pork chops to an even thickness. Place them between layers of plastic wrap and use the textured side of a meat mallet to gently pound them to about 1-inch thickness. This ensures they cook evenly.
- Step 2: Next, season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let the seasoned pork chops rest at room temperature for about 35–45 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook more evenly and become more tender.
- Step 3: While the chops rest, combine all the sauce ingredients in a measuring cup. This includes the chicken broth, beef broth, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, honey, chicken bouillon cube, and the blend of onion powder, oregano, basil, and parsley. Give it a good stir and set it aside.
- Step 4: Lightly dredge each pork chop in flour, shaking off any excess. This helps create a beautiful golden crust when searing.
- Step 5: Heat 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, carefully place the floured pork chops in the skillet. Sear them for about 2–3 minutes on the first side until golden brown and a lovely crust forms. Flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes. Remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Getting these pan-seared garlic Parmesan pork chops ready is all about a few key techniques. Pounding the pork chops ensures they cook uniformly, preventing dry spots. Seasoning them well and letting them come to room temperature before hitting the hot skillet is crucial for that perfect sear and tender bite. Dredging them lightly in flour before searing adds a beautiful golden-brown exterior and helps the sauce cling later.
Creating the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Now for the magic that elevates these pork chops: the sauce! After searing the chops, turn off the heat temporarily. Pour in the white wine and use a spatula to scrape up all those delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan – that’s where so much of the Garlic Parmesan pork chops flavor comes from. Let the wine reduce for a couple of minutes. Then, add your minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 2–3 minutes. Stir in the butter and flour to make a quick roux, cooking for another minute or two. Slowly pour in your prepared sauce mixture while whisking constantly. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 8–10 minutes until it thickens beautifully. Finally, lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. A splash of lemon juice at the end really brightens everything up!
Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
To ensure your pork chops are absolutely perfect every time, I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way. These tips help guarantee that delicious flavor and tender texture we all love.
- Always use center-cut pork chops for the most even cooking and best flavor.
- Don’t skip pounding the chops; it really makes a difference in tenderness.
- Sear the chops properly over medium-high heat to get that beautiful golden crust.
- Let the sauce simmer until it reaches your desired thickness before adding the cheese.
What’s the secret to perfect Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops?
The secret to the best garlic Parmesan pork chops lies in a few key steps: pounding the meat for even thickness, searing it properly for a flavorful crust, and creating a rich, creamy sauce with fresh ingredients like garlic and Parmesan. Don’t rush the sauce reduction!
Can I make Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and sear the pork chops a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat the sauce gently, then add the pork chops to warm through, being careful not to overcook.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops?
The biggest mistake is overcooking the pork chops, which makes them dry. Always monitor the internal temperature, aiming for 145°F (63°C). Also, ensure you deglaze the pan well to capture all the flavorful bits for the sauce for truly juicy garlic Parmesan pork chops.
Best Ways to Serve Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
These incredible Garlic Parmesan pork chops for dinner are so versatile, they pair beautifully with a variety of sides. For a truly comforting meal, I love serving them alongside creamy mashed potatoes that soak up all that delicious sauce. Another fantastic option is a simple side of al dente pasta, like fettuccine or linguine, which is perfect for catching every drop of the flavorful sauce. If you’re looking for lighter Garlic Parmesan pork chops side dishes, a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette or some steamed asparagus adds a lovely crunch and freshness to balance the richness of the pork.
Nutrition Facts for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
When you’re enjoying these flavorful Garlic Parmesan pork chops, it’s good to know what you’re getting. This recipe is a fantastic option if you’re watching your carbohydrate intake, making it a great choice for low carb garlic Parmesan pork chops. Each serving is packed with protein and flavor without being too heavy. Here’s a breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 370
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 820mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
I love making a big batch of these Garlic Parmesan pork chops because they store and reheat so beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep. Once cooked, let the pork chops cool completely before storing. For refrigeration, place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. They’ll stay delicious in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap each chop individually in plastic wrap, then in foil or a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, the best way for reheating pork chops is gently. You can reheat them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water, in the microwave on a low power setting, or even in a 325°F (160°C) oven until warmed through. This ensures they stay tender and flavorful!
Variations of Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops You Can Try
While this Garlic Parmesan pork chops recipe is fantastic as is, I love experimenting with different twists! One popular variation is making these creamy garlic Parmesan pork chops even richer by adding a splash more heavy cream to the sauce or even a dollop of sour cream at the end for extra tang. If you’re looking for a delightful texture change, try making Garlic Parmesan crusted pork chops by mixing breadcrumbs or panko with the Parmesan cheese and pressing it onto the chops before or after searing. For a lighter take, consider a baked version: sear the chops, then bake them in the sauce at 375°F (190°C) until cooked through. You could also add some sun-dried tomatoes or spinach to the sauce for an extra burst of flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
What are Garlic Parmesan pork chops?
Garlic Parmesan pork chops are a delicious dish featuring tender pork chops coated in a rich, savory sauce made with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and often white wine or cream. They’re known for their incredible flavor and satisfying texture, making them a popular choice for any meal.
What is the best temperature for cooking garlic Parmesan pork chops?
For perfectly cooked pork chops, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare to medium. The Garlic Parmesan pork chops cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the chops, but typically searing for 2-3 minutes per side and then gently warming them in the sauce for 3-5 minutes is ideal. For more information on safe cooking temperatures for pork, check out the USDA’s guidelines.
Can I use a different type of pork cut for this recipe?
While center-cut pork chops are recommended for their even thickness and tenderness, you can try other cuts like pork loin chops. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as thicker cuts may require longer searing or warming periods to reach the desired internal temperature.
How do I get a nice crust on my garlic Parmesan pork chops?
To achieve a beautiful crust, ensure your skillet is properly preheated over medium-high heat with enough oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing, as this can steam the pork instead of browning it. Lightly dredging the chops in flour before searing also helps create a lovely golden exterior. You can find more tips on achieving a perfect sear on meats from culinary experts at Serious Eats.
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Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops: 35 Min Tender Meal
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
These Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops are a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with ease of preparation. Juicy, tender pork chops are seared to perfection and enveloped in a creamy garlic sauce enhanced by white wine and fresh Parmesan cheese. Ideal for any occasion, these flavorful chops shine on a dinner table, whether it’s a casual family meal or a festive gathering. Pair them with creamy mashed potatoes, al dente pasta, or seasonal roasted vegetables for a satisfying and complete meal that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 4 center-cut pork chops
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup flour (for dredging)
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup beef broth (or substitute more chicken broth)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 chicken bouillon cube
- 1/2 teaspoon each: onion powder, oregano, basil, parsley
- 3/4 cup dry white wine
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Place plastic wrap over the pork chops and pound them with the textured side of a meat mallet until they reach an even thickness.
- Season both sides of the pork chops with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let them rest at room temperature for 35–45 minutes before cooking.
- In a measuring cup, combine all sauce ingredients. Set aside.
- Lightly dredge each seasoned pork chop in flour, ensuring an even coating on both sides.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Sear the pork chops for 2–3 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Turn off the heat temporarily. Pour in the white wine while scraping the bottom of the skillet with a spatula to deglaze it. Turn heat back to medium and let it reduce for about 2 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until reduced by half.
- Stir in butter and flour to create a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Slowly pour in your prepared sauce mixture while stirring constantly. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer for approximately 8–10 minutes until thickened.
- Lower heat again and gradually stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add lemon juice if desired.
- Return seared pork chops back into the skillet. Spoon sauce over them and heat through for about 3–5 minutes until fully warmed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm alongside your choice of sides.
Notes
- Use room temperature pork for even cooking.
- Pound pork chops for tenderness.
- Sear properly to create a crust.
- Deglaze the pan with white wine to capture flavor.
- Use fresh garlic and grated Parmesan for best flavor.
- Monitor cooking time to prevent dryness; aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- Reheat in the oven, microwave, or stovetop until warmed through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pork chop (180g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
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