This one-pan meal features tender pork chops and crispy potatoes, making dinner a breeze! Just season, bake, and enjoy a delicious meal without a lot of clean-up.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: You can use either bone-in or boneless pork chops. I find bone-in tends to be juicier, but boneless cooks a bit faster. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using chicken breast instead!
Baby Potatoes: They are perfect since they cook quickly and get crispy. If you can’t find them, regular potatoes cut into smaller pieces work too. Sweet potatoes can be a nice substitute, adding a different flavor and color.
Olive Oil: This is important for crisping up the potatoes, but if you’re out, avocado oil or vegetable oil can be good alternatives. They both have a high smoke point, perfect for roasting.
Spices: Garlic powder and smoked paprika bring great flavor! If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or even chili powder can work. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary add a lovely touch, but you can also use Italian seasoning if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Potatoes?
Getting those crispy potatoes is all about technique! Follow these steps for the best results:
- Use a large sheet pan so the potatoes aren’t overcrowded; this helps with browning.
- Make sure to cut them evenly, so they cook at the same rate. Aim for around 1-inch pieces.
- Toss the potatoes in oil and spices before spreading them out in a single layer. This helps them roast instead of steam.
- Roast them first before adding the pork. This gives them a head start for that ideal crispiness!
With these tips, your potatoes should come out perfectly crispy every time! Enjoy your dinner. 😊
Easy Sheet Pan Pork Chops and Crispy Potatoes Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
For Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dinner takes about 10 minutes to prep and 35-40 minutes to cook. With a total time of around 50 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal ready to serve your family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat The Oven and Prepare The Sheet Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare The Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme (or rosemary), salt, and pepper. Mix well until the potatoes are nicely coated in the seasoning.
3. Roast The Potatoes:
Spread the seasoned potatoes out on the lined sheet pan in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes to get them started on their way to crispy perfection!
4. Season The Pork Chops:
While the potatoes are roasting, take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely. Rub the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil on both sides of the chops and season generously with salt, pepper, and a touch more paprika if you like.
5. Add The Pork Chops:
After 15 minutes, take the sheet pan out of the oven. Give the potatoes a stir, then push them to the sides of the pan to create a space in the center for the pork chops.
6. Roast Everything Together:
Place the seasoned pork chops right in the center of the sheet pan among the potatoes. Put the pan back in the oven and roast for an additional 15-20 minutes. You want the pork chops to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the potatoes to turn golden and crispy.
7. Rest and Serve:
Once everything is cooked, remove the pan from the oven and let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes to keep them juicy. Finally, if you’d like, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Enjoy your easy, flavorful dinner with minimal cleanup! It’s a meal that everyone will love.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Vegetables Instead of Potatoes?
Absolutely! You can swap in other vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts. Just make sure to cut them into uniform sizes for even cooking. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the vegetable you choose.
How Do I Know When the Pork Chops Are Done?
The best way to ensure your pork chops are cooked perfectly is to check their internal temperature with a meat thermometer. They should reach 145°F (63°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, make sure they’re no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Ahead of Time?
Definitely! Marinating the pork chops for a few hours or even overnight can enhance their flavor. You can use a simple marinade of olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and herbs to add extra deliciousness. Just make sure to bring them back to room temperature before cooking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. For best results, try to keep the potatoes separate from the pork to maintain their crispiness!
