How to Bake Pork Chops

Pork chops are one of the tastiest cuts of meat! They cook quickly too, so they’re perfect for easy weeknight meals.

You can prepare them with a little seasoning  and serve with BBQ sauce, sweet potatoes and vegetables. You can make glazed pork chops and serve with rice and roasted broccoli.

The key to making pork chops is not to overcook them, or they’ll become dry.

How to Bake Pork Chops

When it comes to baking pork chops, one-inch thick pork chops are better than thin ones, which would overcook quickly.

And, it’s best to use a two-step method for tender, baked pork chops. That means searing the chops in an oven-proof skillet on the stove first, then finishing them in the oven.

Searing the pork chops over medium-high heat helps to brown them on the outside and seal in the juices. They’ll still be raw on the inside though, so transferring them to the oven is perfect for allowing them to finish cooking without making the outside tough and dry.

Internal Temperature for Pork Chops

It’s important to pay attention to the internal temperature of the baked pork chops to ensure they’re tender.

The National Pork Board recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of at least 145 degrees F. Check the temperature by inserting an instant thermometer into the thickest part of the pork.

Pork chops can be cooked up to 160°F, depending on how well done you like them.

• For medium rare, cook pork chops to 145-150°F.
• For medium, cook pork chops to 150-155°F.
• For well done, cook pork chops to 155-160°F.

Keep in mind, you should let the pork rest for five minutes before cutting into it, to help retain its juices. The pork will rise in temperature a bit during that time.

Baking Pork Chops at 350°F

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel. Season the meat.
2. Add a little oil to an oven-safe skillet. Sear the pork chops in the skillet over medium-high heat on the stove for about 3-5 minutes per side, until browned.
3. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake the pork chops for 15 minutes or longer, until the internal temperature reaches 145-150 degrees.
4. Let the pork chops rest for three minutes before serving.
5. Store leftover pork chops in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Baking Pork Chops at 375°F

Once you’ve seared your thick pork chops on the stove, transfer them to a 375-degree oven. Bake for 10 minutes or longer, until the internal temperature reaches 145-150 degrees F.

Let them rest for a few minutes, then serve.

Enjoy!

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