Easy Baked Pork Chops with Sour Cream and French Fried Onions: A Quick Comfort Meal
If you’re looking for an easy, mouthwatering dinner recipe that requires minimal effort but delivers big on flavor, these baked pork chops with sour cream and French fried onions are a must-try. This simple yet delicious dish has been a family favorite for years, and it’s sure to become a regular on your weeknight dinner rotation. With just a few ingredients and an effortless cooking method, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients for Easy Baked Pork Chops with Sour Cream and French Fried Onions
This recipe uses basic ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Thin-sliced boneless pork chops (about 4-6 pieces)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Garlic powder (to taste)
- Sour cream (about 1/3 to 1/2 of the container)
- French fried onions (1 whole can)
- Mashed potatoes and a vegetable (optional sides)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Pork Chops with Sour Cream and French Fried Onions
This recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. Follow these simple steps to make a delicious meal:
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides. This simple seasoning will enhance the natural flavor of the pork.
- Lay the thin-sliced boneless pork chops in a single layer in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. The even layer helps ensure that the pork chops cook uniformly.
Step 2: Add the Sour Cream
- Open the container of sour cream and spread a generous layer over the pork chops. You don’t need to use the entire container—about 1/3 to 1/2 of the container is sufficient to create a creamy, rich layer on top.
- The sour cream not only adds flavor but also helps keep the pork chops tender while they bake.
Step 3: Top with French Fried Onions
- Once the sour cream is spread evenly over the pork chops, it’s time to add the French fried onions. Open the can and spread the entire contents evenly over the top of the sour cream layer. The crispy onions will bake into the dish, adding a crunchy texture and a savory flavor that perfectly complements the tender pork chops.
Step 4: Bake the Pork Chops
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This helps trap moisture and ensures the pork chops stay juicy and tender as they cook.
- Bake the dish in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes. The pork chops will become tender, and the sour cream and onions will meld into a flavorful topping.
- After 35 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the French fried onions to become golden and crispy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the pork chops are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. The pork chops will be tender and flavorful, with the rich sour cream topping and crunchy fried onions adding delicious contrast in every bite.
Serving suggestions: These baked pork chops are typically served with mashed potatoes and a vegetable of your choice. The creamy mashed potatoes complement the richness of the pork and sour cream, while a side of vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or a simple salad adds balance to the meal.
Why This Recipe Is So Special
This baked pork chop recipe has a few key elements that make it stand out:
1. Simplicity and Ease
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want to serve something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
2. Tender and Flavorful Pork Chops
The combination of sour cream and the baking process works wonders in keeping the pork chops incredibly tender and juicy. This is especially true for thin-sliced boneless pork chops, which can sometimes turn dry if not cooked properly. The sour cream helps lock in moisture and infuses the pork with richness.
3. Crunchy French Fried Onions
The French fried onions not only add texture but also provide a savory crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy sour cream layer. This crunchy topping adds a comforting, homey feel to the dish that is reminiscent of classic comfort food.
4. Versatile and Customizable
While the recipe calls for pork chops, you can easily swap them out for chicken breasts or chicken thighs if you prefer. You can also adjust the seasoning and toppings to fit your preferences, whether you want a little more spice or a different flavor profile.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Pork Chops
To ensure your pork chops turn out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:
1. Don’t Overcook the Pork Chops
Since you’re using thin-sliced boneless pork chops, they can cook fairly quickly. Be sure to check them after 35 minutes to avoid overcooking. The pork should be tender and juicy, not dry. If needed, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
2. Add Extra Flavor with Seasonings
Feel free to customize the seasoning to suit your tastes. If you like a little heat, try adding cayenne pepper, paprika, or crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix. For a more aromatic flavor, consider adding onion powder or thyme.
3. Use Fresh Mashed Potatoes
While instant mashed potatoes can work in a pinch, fresh mashed potatoes are always the best option. They’ll be creamier and more flavorful, making a perfect complement to the rich pork chops and sour cream topping.
4. Experiment with Toppings
You can get creative with the toppings by adding shredded cheese on top of the sour cream layer before baking, or you can sprinkle parsley or chives on top after baking for added freshness and color.
Conclusion: A Simple, Delicious Comfort Meal
This easy baked pork chops with sour cream and French fried onions recipe is an ideal option for anyone looking for a simple yet comforting meal. It’s quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and is perfect for busy families or anyone craving a satisfying dinner. The combination of tender pork, creamy sour cream, and crispy onions makes this dish irresistibly delicious.
Enjoy these pork chops with mashed potatoes and your favorite vegetable, and you’ll have a hearty, flavorful meal that everyone will love!