This amazing dish features juicy pork chops cooked on a sheet pan with crispy potatoes. It’s an easy one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for this recipe because they stay juicy and flavorful. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops work too. Just keep an eye on cooking time as they may cook faster.
Baby Golden Potatoes: These potatoes roast beautifully and get crispy on the outside. If you don’t have baby potatoes, you can use regular potatoes; just cut them into even-sized pieces for even cooking.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps everything crisp up. You can substitute with avocado oil or melted butter if you prefer a different taste.
Fresh Herbs: Thyme and rosemary bring fantastic flavor. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried versions are fine, just use half the amount since dried are more potent.
Spices: The smoked paprika adds depth. If you like a bit more heat, consider adding more red pepper flakes or some cayenne pepper!
How Can I Make Sure My Pork Chops Are Juicy?
Getting juicy pork chops is all about not overcooking them. Here are some simple tips:
- Use a meat thermometer! Aim for 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork.
- Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices, making each bite tender.
- Don’t skip the broiling step if you want a crispy outside! Just watch closely to avoid burning.
Following these tips will help you achieve deliciously juicy and flavorful pork chops that pair perfectly with the crispy potatoes. Happy cooking!
Sheet Pan Pork Chops and Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 ½ pounds baby golden potatoes, halved
For the Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme sprigs
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or fresh rosemary sprigs
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 small red onion, cut into wedges (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or thyme
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful sheet pan meal requires about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time. Total time: around 40 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a sheet pan with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup later. This will save you time and effort when washing up.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add in half of the garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. If you like a kick, toss in the red pepper flakes too! Make sure the potatoes are coated well with this tasty mixture.
3. Arrange Potatoes on the Sheet Pan:
Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly across the prepared sheet pan. Arrange them in a single layer so they roast nicely and get crispy!
4. Season the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops and rub them on both sides with the remaining olive oil. Sprinkle them with the other half of the garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and smoked paprika.
5. Add Pork Chops to the Pan:
Place the seasoned pork chops on the same sheet pan among the potatoes. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; you want everything to cook evenly!
6. Add Optional Ingredients:
If you’re using red onion, add the wedges around the pork chops and potatoes to roast alongside them!
7. Roast in the Oven:
Roast everything in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. Remember to flip the pork chops halfway through cooking. The chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the potatoes are golden and tender.
8. Broiling for Crispiness:
If you want extra crisp on both the chops and potatoes, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
9. Final Touches:
Once done, take the pan out of the oven and let it rest slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a lovely finishing touch.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve hot and enjoy this hearty, flavorful meal. Everything comes together beautifully and is sure to please the whole family!
This sheet pan pork chops and potatoes recipe is simple, delicious, and offers minimal cleanup. Perfect for a busy weeknight meal!
Can I Use Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use boneless pork chops, pork loin, or even chicken breasts. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the meat, so always ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Should I Do If I Have Leftover Pork Chops?
Any leftover pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to retain moisture.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Of course! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as some veggies may cook faster or slower than potatoes.
How Can I Make This Dish Lower in Carbs?
If you’re looking to reduce carbs, you can substitute the potatoes with cauliflower florets or roasted zucchini. They’ll still provide a delicious, flavorful component to the dish while being lighter!