These Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops are a fantastic choice for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. With their rich, savory sauce made from white wine, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, these pork chops deliver bold flavors that will impress your guests and satisfy your family. This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, pasta, or roasted vegetables, making it a versatile addition to your meal repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: These pork chops can be ready in just under an hour, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the dish.
- Tender Meat: Searing the pork chops ensures they remain juicy and tender throughout the cooking process.
- Versatile Sides: Serve with various sides like pasta, mashed potatoes, or veggies for a balanced meal.
- Impressive Presentation: The creamy sauce and garnished pork chops create an elegant look that’s perfect for entertaining.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin making these Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops, gathering the right tools will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Meat mallet
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A sturdy skillet is essential for achieving that perfect sear on the pork chops.
- Meat mallet: This tool ensures even cooking by pounding the pork to uniform thickness.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precise measurements help maintain the balance of flavors in the sauce.
Ingredients
For the Pork
- 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
For the Sauce
- 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
Other
- 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)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops
Place plastic wrap over the pork chops and use the textured side of a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness for tenderness. Season both sides of the pork with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. If time allows, let them rest at room temperature for 35–45 minutes.
Step 2: Mix Sauce Ingredients
Mix all sauce ingredients in a measuring cup and set aside. Prepare all other ingredients before beginning to cook.
Step 3: Dredge the Pork Chops
Lightly dredge each pork chop in flour, rubbing it into the surface on both sides.
Step 4: Sear the Pork Chops
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops in batches for 2–3 minutes on one side. Flip them over and cook for another 1–2 minutes until browned. Set aside.
Step 5: Deglaze the Pan
Turn off the heat. Add white wine to the skillet and scrape the bottom with a spatula to deglaze. Turn heat back to medium and let reduce for about 2 minutes.
Step 6: Add Garlic
Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 2–3 minutes until reduced by half.
Step 7: Create Roux
Stir in butter and flour to make a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove raw flour taste.
Step 8: Combine Sauce Mixture
Slowly pour in prepared sauce mixture while stirring constantly. Bring to a boil then reduce to simmer for about 8–10 minutes until thickened.
Step 9: Finish with Cheese
Lower heat and gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Stir in lemon juice if using.
Step 10: Heat Chops in Sauce
Return pork chops to skillet; spoon sauce over top. Heat through for about 3–5 minutes until warm.
Step 11: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm alongside your favorite sides. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops!
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops are versatile and can be paired with various sides to enhance their delicious flavor. Here are some serving suggestions that will complement this savory dish perfectly.
With Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side that pairs beautifully with the rich sauce of the pork chops. Add a touch of garlic for added flavor.
Over Pasta
- Serve the pork chops on a bed of pasta, allowing the creamy sauce to coat the noodles. Opt for fettuccine or linguine for a delightful meal.
Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables
- Roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts add a healthy crunch and vibrant color to your plate. Drizzle with olive oil and season before roasting.
With Garlic Bread
- A slice of warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. This makes for a satisfying addition to your meal.
Paired with Salad
- A light salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pork chops. Consider adding nuts or cranberries for extra texture.
How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
Perfecting Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips for an exceptional dish every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will elevate the flavor profile of your dish, making it taste much more vibrant.
- Pound for Tenderness: Pounding the pork chops ensures they cook evenly and remain tender. This step is crucial for a juicy result.
- Let Them Rest: Allowing seasoned pork chops to rest at room temperature enhances flavor absorption and moisture retention.
- Deglaze Properly: Scraping the bottom of the pan after searing adds depth to your sauce by incorporating flavorful bits left behind.
- Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go when adding ingredients like salt or broth to ensure balanced flavors in your sauce.
- Garnish Just Before Serving: Adding fresh parsley right before serving not only enhances presentation but also provides a fresh herbal note.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops experience. Here are some fantastic options that work well together.
- Creamy Polenta: This smooth dish adds a comforting base that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich pork chops.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the savory flavor of the pork.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that provides texture without overwhelming flavors; season it lightly!
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn gives a summer vibe and pairs well with savory dishes; brush with butter before serving.
- Baked Macaroni and Cheese: For comfort food lovers, this cheesy side is always a hit alongside pork chops!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops can be straightforward, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the resting time – Allowing the pork chops to rest helps retain moisture and flavor. If you skip this step, your pork may end up dry.
- Not properly seasoning – Failing to season adequately can lead to bland flavor. Ensure you season both sides of the chops generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Overcooking the pork chops – Cooking them too long will result in tough meat. Sear until they reach a nice golden color and check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
- Neglecting to deglaze the pan – Not scraping the bits off the bottom can mean losing flavor from the sauce. Always deglaze after searing for a richer sauce.
- Using pre-grated cheese – Pre-grated Parmesan often has anti-caking agents that affect texture. Grate fresh Parmesan for a smoother, creamier sauce.
- Ignoring sauce thickness – If your sauce is too thin, it won’t cling well to the pork. Let it simmer longer until it thickens to your liking.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Cool completely before refrigerating to maintain quality.
Freezing Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Label containers with date for easy identification.
Reheating Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave – Heat on medium power in short intervals (1 minute at a time) until warm. Be cautious not to overcook.
- Stovetop – Reheat over medium heat in a skillet with a bit of oil or butter. Cook until warmed through and crispy again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless pork chops for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops?
Yes, boneless pork chops work well! Just adjust cooking times as they may cook faster than bone-in cuts.
What should I serve with Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops?
These chops pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed veggies like green beans or broccoli.
How do I ensure my Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops are tender?
Pound the pork chops for even thickness before cooking and allow them to rest after seasoning.
Can I make Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce ahead and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just cook the pork chops fresh for best results.
What wine pairs best with Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops?
A dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements this dish nicely.
Final Thoughts
These Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops are not only flavorful but also versatile enough to impress at any dinner table. Feel free to customize your sides or add extra herbs to suit your taste. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious meal that everyone will love!
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