Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Pork Chop Red Sauce recipe is the perfect answer for busy weeknights. It's a delicious, easy recipe that delivers big on taste without sacrificing simplicity. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Season the pork chops generously with salt and pepper. This simple step is key to flavorful pork chops.
Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don't let the garlic burn!
Build the Sauce:
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
Cook the Pork Chops:
- Add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet. Cover the skillet and let them simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Flip the chops halfway through cooking for even browning.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the pork chops are cooked, garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This dish is delicious on its own, or you can serve it with your favorite sides, such as pasta, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Pork Chops:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have more than four pork chops, cook them in batches to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to guarantee perfectly cooked pork chops every time. Overcooked pork chops are dry, so use a thermometer to prevent that.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs and spices to your liking. A dash of sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Enhance your red sauce with other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Add them along with the onions.
- Spice it up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer sauce.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other Italian herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This easy recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner. It's a delicious and satisfying meal the whole family will love. This healthy meal offers a delicious and satisfying taste, proving that healthy eating doesn't have to be boring! Enjoy your homemade cooking success!