Pesto Parmesan Pork Chops

Introduction

Pesto Parmesan Pork Chops are a succulent, flavorful twist on a classic pork chop dinner. Each chop is coated with a vibrant mixture of fresh basil pesto and Parmesan cheese, then baked or pan-seared to perfection. The pesto adds a fragrant, herby richness, while the Parmesan creates a golden, slightly crispy crust that elevates the dish. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight meal but elegant enough to serve for guests.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it transforms a simple pork chop into a gourmet dish in under 30 minutes. The combination of nutty, cheesy Parmesan and fresh, aromatic pesto perfectly complements the juicy pork, making each bite deeply satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can pair it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Why It’s a Must-Try

This dish is a must-try because:

• It’s packed with bold, fresh flavors without being complicated.
• The Parmesan crust adds texture and a delicious golden finish.
• It cooks quickly but feels like a special, restaurant-quality meal.
• It’s ideal for meal prepping or impressing guests on a busy weeknight.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: 30–35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving

Cuisine and Course

• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Course: Main course

Ingredients

Pork Chops

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick, ~6 oz each)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Pesto Parmesan Coating

• ¼ cup prepared basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking.
2. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. Mix pesto, Parmesan, garlic, and breadcrumbs in a small bowl.
4. Spread mixture evenly over the top of each pork chop.
5. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear pork chops 2–3 minutes per side.
6. Finish in the oven for 10–15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat Oven (Optional):
   If baking after searing, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season Pork Chops:
   Pat pork chops dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Prepare Pesto-Parmesan Mixture:
   In a small bowl, combine basil pesto, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, optional breadcrumbs, and crushed red pepper flakes.
4. Apply Coating:
   Spread the pesto mixture evenly over the top of each pork chop.
5. Sear Pork Chops:
   Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
6. Bake to Finish (Optional):
   Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10–15 minutes, or until pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Rest Before Serving:
   Let pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain their juices.

How to Serve

• Serve with roasted or steamed vegetables, such as asparagus or green beans.
• Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or a light pasta for a complete meal.
• Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh basil for added flavor and presentation.

Additional Recipe Tips

• For extra crispiness, broil pork chops for the last 2 minutes of cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chops are perfectly cooked without drying out.
• Boneless chops cook faster than bone-in, so adjust baking time accordingly.

Variations

• Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto: Use sun-dried tomato pesto for a tangy twist.
• Garlic Herb Crust: Add fresh chopped herbs like rosemary and thyme to the Parmesan mixture.
• Low-Carb: Skip breadcrumbs for a keto-friendly version.
• Spicy Pesto: Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Cooked pork chops can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or skillet to retain moisture.

Special Equipment Needed

• Skillet (oven-safe if finishing in the oven)
• Meat thermometer (recommended for perfect doneness)
• Small mixing bowl

FAQ

Q: Can I make this recipe with boneless pork chops?
A: Yes, just reduce cooking time by a few minutes as boneless chops cook faster.

Q: Can I bake without searing?
A: Yes, but searing adds flavor and creates a golden crust.

Q: Can I use store-bought pesto?
A: Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works great and saves time.

Q: How do I know when pork chops are done?
A: Use a meat thermometer. They should reach 145°F (63°C) and then rest for 5 minutes.

Conclusion

Pesto Parmesan Pork Chops are a quick, flavorful, and impressive main dish that transforms ordinary pork chops into a gourmet experience. The herby, cheesy crust combined with tender, juicy pork makes this recipe a favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With minimal prep and versatile serving options, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.