Oven Baked Pork Chops

Oven-Baked Pork Chops Recipe – Are you craving a satisfying, hearty meal that’s both simple and packed with flavor? Then these oven-baked pork chops are a must-try! The perfect balance of seasoning joins the juicy, tender texture, making them ideal for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. 😋

Baking pork chops in the oven allows them to cook evenly, locking in moisture and enhancing their natural flavor. Whether you’re a pork lover or just looking for new recipes to add to your rotation, these oven-baked pork chops are sure to be a favorite. 

They’re absolutely versatile, too, and go with just about any side dish. This recipe features potatoes and veg as sides. While baking them on a single sheet with the pork chops delivers convenience, you can pair them with any side for a complete, comforting meal!

How Long Should You Bake Them?

Since pork chops are tender and quick-cooking, baking is an ideal cooking method. The gentle heat of the oven is easier to control, making it less likely to overcook a pork chop on the stovetop or grill.

For bone-in pork chops about ½-¾ inch thick, I suggest cooking them for 18-22 minutes at 400℉ (205℃). When the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145℉ (65℃), they’re done.

For boneless pork chops of the same size, bake them for 15-19 minutes at 400℉ (205℃). For a thicker cut, around an inch or so, try adding a few more minutes or until the thickest part reads 145℉ (65℃).

Recipe Ingredients

• Pork Chops – I prefer bone-in chops because they’re juicier, but boneless works well too.
• Potatoes – A pound or two of potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes, makes for a nice, evenly cooked side for the whole family.
• Vegetables – About a pound of your favorite vegetables can go on the same sheet. I’ve used asparagus, but green beans, carrots, or other veg will work just as well.
• Seasonings – For sensationally flavorful pork chops, you’ll need a few seasonings, including salt and pepper, Creole seasoning, minced thyme and garlic, dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and some brown sugar. Oh! And don’t forget some chopped parsley for a garnish.

How to Make Oven-Baked Pork Chops

• Prep – Position a rack in the oven’s center position and preheat to 400℉ (205℃). Line a baking or cookie sheet with foil or baking paper. Lightly oil the baking sheet or use a baking spray to grease it.
• Dry the pork chops thoroughly with paper towels, season with salt and pepper, and set aside.
• Seasoning – In a small bowl, combine the Creole seasoning, minced thyme, garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, and oil. Season the pork with the marinade, then place the chops on the prepared cookie or baking sheet. (Photos 1-4)
• Veggies – In another bowl, season the potatoes and asparagus with salt, oil, and Creole seasoning. Then, arrange them next to the pork chops on the baking sheet. (Photo 5)
• Bake – Place it all in the oven and roast until the pork chops cook to your desired doneness (18-22 minutes). Ideally, they’ll reach an internal temperature of 145℉ (65℃). (Photo 6)
• Serve – If desired, broil the chops for 2-3 minutes until you get that coveted Maillard reaction. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley if desired.

Recipe Variations

1. Try garlic parmesan-crusted pork chops. Coat your pork chops with a mix of grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and minced garlic before baking. Add a sprinkle of Italian herbs for a cheesy, crispy crust that pairs well with marinara sauce or roasted veggies.
2. Enjoy honey mustard glazed pork chops. Brush the chops with a glaze made from equal parts wild honey, Dijon mustard, and a splash of apple cider vinegar for tang. This variation adds a sweet, tangy flavor that’s amazing with mashed potatoes or roasted Brussels sprouts.
3. Indulge in BBQ oven-baked pork chops. Smother the chops in your favorite BBQ sauce, then bake them until tender and caramelized. Add smoked paprika or chili powder to the sauce for a touch of heat, then serve with corn on the cob and coleslaw for a Southern-inspired meal.

Tips and Tricks

1. Season generously. Don’t be shy with seasoning! A good seasoning base can enhance the natural flavors of the pork and prevent blandness.
2. Optionally, you can sear before baking. For a beautiful crust, quickly sear your pork chops in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side before placing them in the oven. That adds color and seals in juices. 🤩
3. Use a meat thermometer. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer. Pork should be safe to eat at 145°F (63°C) and benefits from resting for a few minutes. That allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chops tender.
4. Bring the pork chops to room temperature for 30 minutes before baking for even cooking.

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

You can bake the chops up to a day ahead if needed. Allow them to completely cool, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to eat, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent them from drying out.

Place leftover cooked pork chops in an airtight container and refrigerate them. They should stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.For more extended storage, wrap each pork chop in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Pork chops also freeze well for 2-3 months.

Thaw your frozen pork chops overnight in the fridge, cover with foil, and reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) preheated oven. Heat for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Please avoid the microwave, as it can dry the meat out. 🙅🏿‍♀️

What Goes With Oven Baked Pork Chops

So many sides go with oven-baked pork chops! If you aren’t cooking your taters and veg on the sheet with the chops, why not try them with corn cakes and smothered cabbage? They also go amazing with deviled egg potato salad and homemade biscuits. 🤤

More Perfect Pork Chop Recipes to Try

1. Smothered Pork Chops
2. Breaded Pork Chops
3. Stuffed Pork Chops
4. Pan-Fried Boneless Pork Chops
5. Fried Bone-in Pork Chops

Watch How to Make It

[adthrive-in-post-video-player video-id=”SJCdicBD” upload-date=”2019-09-18T08:47:38.000Z” name=”Oven Baked Pork Chops” description=”Oven Baked Pork Chops – easy one-sheet pan meal with juicy and tasty pork chops and roasted veggies on the side. A perfect family-friendly meal for a quick weeknight dinner!”]

This blog post was originally published in September 2018 and has been updated with additional tips, new photos, and a video