Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that's also quick and easy to prepare? Then look no further! This sheet pan pork chop dinner recipe is your new weeknight savior. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering big flavor with minimal effort. Get ready to enjoy a burst of juicy pork chops, perfectly roasted vegetables, and a simple yet satisfying sauce, all cooked on one pan for easy cleanup! This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or healthy meals that don't compromise on taste.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 lb broccoli florets
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This is a key step for easy recipes like this one.
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Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, toss the potatoes, broccoli, and red onion with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the vegetables are evenly coated.
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Season the Pork Chops: In a separate bowl, drizzle the pork chops with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
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Assemble & Bake: Arrange the seasoned pork chops and the seasoned vegetables on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure the vegetables are spread out in a single layer for even cooking.
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Roast to Perfection: Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the vegetables are tender and slightly browned. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your pork chops and your oven.
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Balsamic Glaze (Optional): During the last 5 minutes of cooking, drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the pork chops and vegetables for an extra touch of flavor.
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Serve & Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the sheet pan from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful pork chops.
Cooking Tips for Delicious Dishes:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure the vegetables and pork chops are in a single layer to allow for even cooking and browning.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your pork chops are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices according to your preference.
- Add other vegetables: This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini.
Variations:
- Spicy Sheet Pan Dinner: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a little kick.
- Lemon Herb Pork Chops: Add lemon zest and juice to the pork chop marinade for a bright and zesty flavor.
- Honey Garlic Pork Chops: Drizzle honey and soy sauce over the pork chops during the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet and savory glaze.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This easy sheet pan pork chop dinner is a fantastic option for a quick and healthy weeknight meal. It’s a perfect example of how delicious dishes can be both simple and satisfying. The best recipes often come from a balance of great ingredients and easy cooking methods – and this one certainly delivers! Enjoy!