Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a flavorful, satisfying meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This recipe for oven-baked BBQ pork chops is your answer. It's a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a casual weekend gathering. Get ready to experience juicy, tender pork chops drenched in a smoky, sweet BBQ sauce – all from the comfort of your oven! This recipe is a testament to how delicious homemade cooking can be, even when you're short on time.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your pork chops cook evenly and reach the perfect internal temperature.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This simple step helps them brown beautifully in the oven.
Seasoning and Marinating (Optional):
- In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
- Rub the spice mixture generously over both sides of the pork chops. For extra flavor, let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or even longer in the refrigerator).
Baking the Pork Chops:
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for about 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step adds a delightful crust.
- Pour half of the BBQ sauce over the pork chops in the skillet.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- During the last 5 minutes of baking, brush the remaining BBQ sauce over the pork chops. This adds extra flavor and gloss.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these delicious BBQ pork chops immediately. They're fantastic on their own, but even better with some simple sides. Consider serving them with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the skillet: Ensure there's enough space between the pork chops for even browning. If necessary, bake them in two batches.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your pork chops are cooked through and safe to eat.
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker pork chops will require a longer cooking time. Always check the internal temperature.
- Get creative with BBQ sauce: Experiment with different flavors of BBQ sauce to find your favorite.
Variations:
- Spicy BBQ Pork Chops: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the spice rub for a kick.
- Honey Garlic BBQ Pork Chops: Mix equal parts honey and soy sauce with your BBQ sauce for a sweet and savory twist.
- Apple Cider BBQ Pork Chops: Substitute apple cider for some of the BBQ sauce for a unique, autumnal flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 30-35g Fat: Approximately 15-20g Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor. Enjoy your delicious and healthy meal! These are truly some of the best recipes you'll find for easy, satisfying, and flavorful pork chops. They're perfect for anyone looking to elevate their homemade cooking game.