Looking for a simple yet satisfying weeknight dinner? Look no further than this recipe for baked pork chops with cream of mushroom soup. This classic comfort food is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and even less cleanup. It's perfect for busy weeknights and guaranteed to please the whole family.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- Pork Chops: 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 (10.75 ounce) can
- Milk: 1/2 cup (or more, for desired consistency)
- Onion: 1/2 medium, chopped (optional, but adds great flavor!)
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced (optional, but adds great flavor!)
- Seasoning: Salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder (to taste)
- Cheese: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, but adds a delightful cheesy topping)
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions:
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your pork chops cook evenly and reach the perfect internal temperature.
-
Prepare the pork chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Don't be shy with the seasoning!
-
Sauté the aromatics (optional): If using onion and garlic, sauté them in a tablespoon of butter or oil in an oven-safe skillet until softened. This adds depth of flavor to your dish.
-
Combine soup and milk: In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a little extra milk.
-
Assemble and bake: Place the seasoned pork chops in the prepared skillet (with or without the sautéed onions and garlic). Pour the cream of mushroom soup mixture evenly over the pork chops.
-
Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chops. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked to a safe temperature.
-
Add cheese (optional): During the last 5-10 minutes of baking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the pork chops. This will melt beautifully and create a delicious, cheesy topping.
-
Rest and serve: Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful pork chops.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Pork Chops:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have more than four pork chops, you may need to bake them in two batches to ensure even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure your pork chops are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Serve with sides: These baked pork chops pair perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple green salad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use different types of soup?
A: While cream of mushroom soup is a classic pairing, you can experiment with other cream-based soups like cream of chicken or cream of celery.
Q: How do I know when the pork chops are done?
A: The pork chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) as measured by a meat thermometer. They should also be firm to the touch and no longer pink inside.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can assemble the pork chops and soup mixture ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
This simple recipe for baked pork chops with cream of mushroom soup is a surefire winner. Enjoy! Remember to share your culinary creations with us using #BakedPorkChops!
