Pesto Pork Chops
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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- Prepare your ingredients: Mince garlic and let pork chops reach room temperature.
- Season: Generously season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper.
- 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.
- Add garlic and pesto: Stir in minced garlic, then dollop pesto over each chop.
- 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).
- 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.