Baked Pork Chops
Tender baked pork chops seasoned with a savory paprika herb rub and roasted uncovered at 400°F. A short rest locks in juices for flavorful meat every time.
Equipment
- Baking Dishes
- Ruler
- Instant-read thermometer
- Measuring spoons
- Small Prep Bowls
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 4 boneless pork chops
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 400°F and measure the thickness of the pork chops before cooking. Thickness determines the baking time, so measure the thickest part of each chop rather than guessing.
- Combine the paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. The mixture should look evenly colored, with no clumps of garlic or onion powder remaining.
- Coat both sides of the pork chops with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then press the seasoning mixture onto all sides. Place the chops in the baking dish and drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the tops for a glossy, well-seasoned surface.
- Roast uncovered for 7 minutes per ½ inch of thickness, removing the chops when the center reaches 145°F. A 1½-inch chop takes 21 minutes, and the finished pork should have a golden crust with a slight blush of pink inside.
- Leave the pork chops in the pan for 5 minutes before serving. Clear savory juices collecting around the chops signal that the meat has had time to settle before slicing.
Notes
Pan selection: Choose a baking dish that holds the chops in a single layer with a little room between them so the savory pan juices do not evaporate.
Doneness: Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest area to confirm 145°F. Pork may still show a slight blush of pink in the center when safely cooked.
Storage: Refrigerate leftover pork chops in a shallow airtight container for 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet with a splash of broth until reaching 165°F.
Nutrition information is an estimate based on common ingredients and serving sizes. Values may vary depending on brands, portions, and substitutions.