Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This baked barbecue pork chop recipe is your answer. It's a perfect blend of sweet and smoky flavors, juicy tenderness, and minimal cleanup – everything you need for a fantastic weeknight dinner or a casual weekend feast. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas without sacrificing deliciousness. Homemade cooking doesn't get much simpler than this!
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 cup your favorite barbecue sauce (check the label for ingredients and adjust to your taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your pork chops bake evenly and reach the perfect internal temperature.
Prepare the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely in the oven. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Don't be shy with the seasoning!
Sear (Optional but Recommended): Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet (cast iron works great!) over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step adds a lovely crust and enhances the overall flavor.
Bake to Perfection: Pour about ½ cup of barbecue sauce into the bottom of the skillet. Place the seared pork chops on top, then spoon the remaining barbecue sauce evenly over them. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked through.
Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in extra tender and flavorful pork chops. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- Bone-in vs. Boneless: Bone-in pork chops stay juicier during cooking. However, boneless chops cook slightly faster. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Thickness Matters: Thicker pork chops will require longer cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach the safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure there's enough space between the pork chops in the skillet for even browning and cooking. If necessary, bake them in two batches.
- Sauce Selection: Feel free to experiment with different barbecue sauces to find your perfect flavor profile. Spicy, sweet, smoky – the possibilities are endless!
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the seasoning mix for some extra heat.
- Apple Cider Glaze: Substitute apple cider for half of the barbecue sauce for a tangy twist.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the skillet during the last 10 minutes of baking for an aromatic touch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This baked barbecue pork chop recipe is a simple yet delicious addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. Enjoy this fantastic dish, and happy cooking!