Irresistible Pesto Pork Chops Recipe for Dinner Delight

The aroma of sizzling pork chops infused with vibrant, fresh pesto wafts through the air, instantly making your taste buds dance with anticipation. Imagine biting into those perfectly cooked chops, their savory flavor bursting forth, complemented by the earthy notes of basil and garlic.

Now picture gathering around the dinner table with friends and family, laughter echoing as you serve this delightful dish. The excitement in the room is palpable, each forkful promising a culinary adventure that will leave everyone wanting more.

I still remember the first time I made Pesto Pork Chops for my friends. Their amazed faces as they took that first bite were priceless.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pork Chops: Choose bone-in or boneless; both work beautifully depending on your preference.

• Fresh Basil Pesto: Homemade or store-bought; either way, ensure it’s fresh for maximum flavor.

• Olive Oil: Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.

• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic enhances the flavor; use minced garlic for even distribution.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance everything; adjust to your taste.

• Lemon Juice: A splash adds brightness and balances the richness of the pork.

• Parmesan Cheese (optional): Grated cheese can elevate your dish if you want an extra layer of flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Pesto Pork Chops

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients and prepping them. Mince the garlic and measure out your pesto while letting those pork chops come to room temperature.

Season the Pork Chops: Season both sides of your pork chops generously with salt and pepper. This step ensures every bite is flavorful from the inside out.

Sear the Pork Chops: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once heated, add the pork chops. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden crust.

Add Garlic and Pesto: After browning both sides of the pork chops, add minced garlic to the pan. Stir quickly so it doesn’t burn, then dollop generous amounts of pesto over each chop.

Bake in Oven: Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Finish with Lemon Juice and Parmesan (optional): Remove from oven and drizzle lemon juice over the top while sprinkling Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and watch everyone dig in!

This Pesto Pork Chops recipe brings together flavors that not only tantalize your taste buds but also create lasting memories around your dining table. Enjoy every moment!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the pork chops to lock in juices, then finish cooking them in the oven for even heat distribution.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out traditional pesto for sun-dried tomato pesto or add crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain moisture.

I once made these Pesto Pork Chops for a dinner party, and my friends devoured them! They even asked for seconds, which felt like a huge win.

FAQ

Can I use chicken instead of pork chops?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully with pesto too.

How do I know when my pork chops are done?

Pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F for perfect doneness.

Can I make my own pesto?

Yes! Homemade pesto is easy and allows you to customize flavors to your liking.

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Pesto Pork Chops

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Pesto Pork Chops are a delightful fusion of juicy pork and aromatic basil pesto, creating a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a crispy sear and rich flavor, these chops promise to impress at the dinner table. Easy to prepare and versatile enough to pair with your favorite sides, this recipe guarantees satisfaction with every bite. Gather your loved ones and enjoy a memorable meal filled with laughter and culinary delight.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (6 oz each)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil pesto
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients: Mince garlic and let pork chops reach room temperature.
2. Season: Generously season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. Sear: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each chop for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. Add garlic and pesto: Stir in minced garlic, then dollop pesto over each chop.
5. Bake: Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and bake for 10-12 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Finish: Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 pork chop (170g)
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Let pork chops rest after cooking for optimal juiciness. Feel free to substitute traditional pesto with sun-dried tomato pesto or add crushed red pepper for heat.