These oven-baked pork chops with potatoes are a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. The combination of juicy, tender pork chops with crispy roasted potatoes creates a well-balanced dish that’s both hearty and flavorful.
The best part about this dish is how easy it is to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can prepare a delicious meal that’s ready in under an hour. The potatoes roast alongside the pork chops, making cleanup a breeze while still delivering big on flavor. Whether you’re feeding the family or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to become a favorite!
Full Recipe:
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4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
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4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp paprika
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1/2 cup chicken broth
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1 tbsp butter, melted
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Toss the potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil, rosemary, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet.
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Rub the pork chops with the remaining olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of rosemary.
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Place the pork chops on top of the potatoes, drizzle with melted butter, and pour the chicken broth around the edges.
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Roast for 35-40 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through (145°F internal temperature) and the potatoes are tender.
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Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end to get a crispy golden crust on the pork chops.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Oven-Baked Pork Chops with Potatoes
Oven-baked pork chops with potatoes is the kind of comforting, hearty dish that can turn any ordinary dinner into a memorable meal. The best part? It’s incredibly simple to make and only requires a handful of basic ingredients. The pork chops stay juicy and tender while the potatoes become perfectly crispy, making it a well-balanced and satisfying meal. This dish is versatile and perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or even a Sunday roast with the family. If you’re looking for a meal that combines ease, flavor, and heartiness, this oven-baked pork chop and potato recipe should be at the top of your list.
Why Oven-Baked Pork Chops and Potatoes are a Great Combination
One of the most exciting aspects of this dish is the way the flavors meld together. Pork chops, with their savory and slightly sweet taste, complement the crispy and tender potatoes beautifully. Roasting both the pork and potatoes in the oven at the same time not only saves on clean-up but also infuses both components with the same delicious flavors. The natural juices from the pork chop drip onto the potatoes, enhancing their flavor and texture. This makes the meal incredibly tasty, with minimal effort involved.
The combination of proteins and carbs in this meal makes it filling, satisfying, and perfect for families. It’s also a great option for those who prefer to keep things simple in the kitchen without compromising on taste.
A Healthy, One-Pan Meal
While pork chops and potatoes might sound like a heavier meal, they can easily be part of a balanced, nutritious dinner. The key to making this meal healthier is to focus on portion control and the quality of ingredients. For instance, opting for lean cuts of pork such as bone-in pork chops can keep the dish lean while still being full of flavor. Using olive oil to roast the potatoes gives them a crispy texture without adding unnecessary fats, and seasoning with fresh herbs like rosemary provides a burst of freshness and a great aroma.
Additionally, adding a side of greens or a salad can make this meal even more nutritious, creating a complete dinner plate that’s both healthy and indulgent.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops
Pork chops are delicious, but they can sometimes be tricky to cook perfectly. Overcooking them can result in dry, tough meat, while undercooking can lead to an unpleasant texture. Here are some tips to ensure your pork chops are cooked to perfection:
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Choose the Right Cut: For oven baking, bone-in pork chops work best as the bone helps retain moisture, making the meat juicier. However, boneless pork chops can also be used if that’s your preference.
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Proper Seasoning: Seasoning the pork chops with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like rosemary will bring out the natural flavor of the meat. You can also add garlic powder or paprika for an extra flavor boost.
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Monitor the Temperature: The most important factor in cooking pork chops is the internal temperature. For a tender, juicy chop, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). You can use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches this temperature without overcooking.
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Rest the Meat: Once the pork chops are out of the oven, let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful.
How to Get Crispy, Roasted Potatoes
Roasted potatoes are the perfect side to accompany your pork chops. They’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. To achieve the perfect texture, follow these simple tips:
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Cut Potatoes Evenly: Make sure the potatoes are cut into uniform-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly. This will prevent some from being overcooked while others are undercooked.
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Use High Heat: Roasting at a high temperature, around 400°F (200°C), ensures the potatoes become golden and crispy. The high heat helps caramelize the natural sugars in the potatoes, giving them a nice, crispy crust.
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Toss in Olive Oil and Seasonings: Coat the potato cubes with a bit of olive oil and season them with your favorite herbs and spices. Rosemary and garlic pair wonderfully with potatoes, but feel free to experiment with other flavors like thyme or paprika.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When roasting potatoes, it’s important not to crowd the pan. If the potatoes are too close together, they’ll steam instead of roast, which will prevent them from becoming crispy. Leave a little space between each potato to allow for proper air circulation and crisping.
Customizing Your Pork Chop and Potato Dish
While this recipe is perfect as-is, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your tastes. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a sprinkle of chili flakes to the seasoning for a spicy kick. For a more robust flavor, you can marinate the pork chops ahead of time with a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs to infuse more depth into the meat.
For the potatoes, feel free to experiment with different types. Red potatoes, Yukon golds, or even sweet potatoes work wonderfully in this dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of potato you’re using.
Serving Suggestions
Oven-baked pork chops with potatoes are incredibly versatile when it comes to side dishes. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:
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Green Vegetables: Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or Brussels sprouts pair beautifully with this dish, providing a pop of color and nutrients.
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Salads: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can help balance out the richness of the pork and potatoes. Try an arugula and spinach salad with lemon dressing for a fresh, zesty contrast.
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Sauces: If you’re craving some extra flavor, consider serving your pork chops with a side of apple sauce or a mustard-based sauce. The tangy sweetness of the apple sauce complements the savory pork beautifully.
Why You Should Try Oven-Baked Pork Chops with Potatoes
There are countless reasons why this dish is a great choice for dinner. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can prepare a filling and delicious meal that everyone will love. The simplicity of the recipe makes it ideal for busy weeknights, but it’s also impressive enough to serve at gatherings or special occasions.
The flavors are comforting and familiar, making it a great option for picky eaters or families with varying tastes. Plus, the versatility of this recipe means you can easily adjust the seasoning and sides to suit your preferences, making it adaptable to different dietary needs or flavor profiles.
Conclusion
Oven-baked pork chops with potatoes is a tried-and-true recipe that never disappoints. It’s simple to make, customizable, and sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend family dinner, it’s a hearty, satisfying option that’s both delicious and nutritious. The combination of perfectly roasted potatoes and tender pork chops creates a dish that’s full of flavor, and the best part is that it’s all made in one pan, saving you time on both cooking and cleaning up. Try this recipe today and enjoy a wholesome meal that’s full of comfort and flavor!