Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops

These Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops are a simple but impressive dinner that brings together crispy, golden cheese with juicy, tender pork. The crust is made from a mix of Parmesan…

By Willow • November 6, 2025 • Reading time: 6 min

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These Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops are a simple but impressive dinner that brings together crispy, golden cheese with juicy, tender pork. The crust is made from a mix of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, which bakes up nice and crunchy, locking in all the pork’s natural flavor. It’s such a handy way to make pork chops feel special without needing too many ingredients or fancy steps.

I love making these chops when I want something that feels cozy but still looks like I put some effort into the meal. My favorite trick is to give the crust a good press onto the chops so it sticks well, then sear them in a hot pan before finishing in the oven. It helps get that perfect golden crust while keeping the inside super juicy. It’s a little step that makes a big difference every time.

One of the best parts about this recipe is how well it pairs with all sorts of sides—mashed potatoes, a crisp green salad, or even some roasted veggies. I like to serve it with something fresh to balance out the rich crust. This dish is a real crowd-pleaser when friends come over, and leftovers taste great warmed up the next day too, which always makes me happy.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pork Chops: Choose chops about 1-inch thick for the best balance of juicy inside and crispy crust. Bone-in chops add extra flavor, but boneless work too. If you prefer leaner meat, pork tenderloin slices can be used, though they’re thinner and cook faster.

Parmesan Cheese: This gives the crust a wonderful nutty, salty crunch. Freshly grated Parmesan is best, but pre-grated works in a pinch. For a different twist, try Pecorino Romano, which is a bit sharper and saltier.

Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter, crispier crust, while regular breadcrumbs give a denser crust. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are a good swap if you avoid gluten. You can also use crushed cornflakes or crushed nuts for unique textures.

Eggs & Milk: These help the crust stick well to the pork. If you’re avoiding dairy, use just the egg or substitute the milk with a plant-based option like almond or oat milk.

How Do You Get the Parmesan Crust Super Crispy and Well-Stuck?

The key to a great crust is proper coating and cooking technique. Here’s what helps me:

• Dry the pork chops well with paper towels. Less moisture means the coating sticks better and crisps nicely.
• Dip the pork chops first in the egg mixture, making sure they’re fully coated.
• Press the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture firmly on both sides, don’t just lightly dust it. This packing helps the crust stay put while cooking.
• Use a hot skillet with enough oil or butter to cover the bottom. Sear the chops over medium-high heat for a couple of minutes per side until golden brown. This seals the crust fast.
• Finish cooking in the oven to keep the inside juicy without burning the crust on the stove.

Rest the chops a moment after cooking so juices settle, keeping bites tender and flavorful. This method always results in a crispy crust and juicy pork inside!

Equipment You’ll Need

• Oven-safe skillet – perfect for searing on the stove and finishing in the oven without extra dishes.
• Tongs – help you flip pork chops gently without knocking off the crust.
• Shallow bowls or dishes – great for mixing and dipping the egg wash and breadcrumb mixture.
• Meat thermometer – ensures your pork reaches the safe internal temp without overcooking.
• Paper towels – for drying the pork chops, which helps the crust stick better.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Add fresh herbs like chopped rosemary or thyme into the breadcrumb mix for more earthy flavors.
• Mix some crushed garlic or smoked paprika into the crust for a smoky, spicy kick.
• Try swapping Parmesan with Asiago or Pecorino cheese for a sharper, tangier crust.
• For a lighter version, use ground almonds or walnuts mixed with grated cheese instead of breadcrumbs.

Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Pork Chops:

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Crust:

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)

For the Egg Wash:

• 2 large eggs
• 2 tbsp whole milk or cream

For Cooking:

• 3 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter, for frying
• Fresh herb sprigs (such as thyme or rosemary) for garnish (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, 10-15 minutes to cook (searing plus baking), and a few minutes to rest before serving. So overall, plan on about 30-35 minutes, making it a quick and delicious main dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat and Season:

Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Use paper towels to pat the pork chops dry—this helps the crust stick better. Then sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides to season the chops well.

2. Prepare the Crust and Egg Wash:

In a shallow dish, mix together the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, oregano, paprika if you like, and parsley. In another shallow bowl, whisk the eggs and milk until smooth.

3. Coat the Pork Chops:

Dip each pork chop in the egg mixture, coating it completely. Then press the chops firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mix so a nice crust forms on both sides.

4. Sear the Chops:

Heat olive oil or butter in a large, oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the crust turns golden brown and crispy.

5. Bake and Finish:

Transfer the skillet straight to the preheated oven. Bake for 8-12 minutes until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Remove from oven and let them rest for 3-5 minutes to keep juices locked inside.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Garnish with fresh herbs if you like, then serve your delicious Parmesan-crusted pork chops with your favorite sides. Enjoy the crispy outside and juicy, tender pork inside!

Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?

Yes, but be sure to fully thaw them in the fridge overnight before cooking. Pat them dry well to ensure the crust sticks nicely and cooks evenly.

What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?

You can swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a similar bold, salty flavor. For a milder taste, try a blend of grated cheddar and mozzarella, though the texture will differ slightly.

How Do I Store Leftover Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops?

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or a skillet to help maintain crispiness rather than using a microwave.

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts like almonds or pecans instead of traditional breadcrumbs to keep the crust crunchy without gluten.