Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this vibrant and flavor-packed Pesto Pork recipe! Juicy, perfectly pan-seared pork chops are seasoned with a simple blend of salt and black pepper, then crowned with a luxurious layer of warm, fragrant basil pesto. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory touch, while optional garnishes of cherry tomatoes and fresh basil infuse extra color and freshness to the plate. Ready in just 25 minutes from start to finish, this quick and easy main dish is perfect for busy nights but elegant enough to impress guests. Pair it with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal. This recipe showcases the best of comfort and gourmet flair, making it an irresistible choice for pork lovers and pesto enthusiasts alike!
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is shimmering, add the pork chops to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for 5 minutes.
While the pork chops are resting, warm the basil pesto in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Place the rested pork chops on a serving platter or individual plates. Spoon a generous amount of warmed pesto on top of each chop.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pesto for added flavor.
Optionally, garnish the plate with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves for a burst of color.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Calories |
1842 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 133.7 g | 171% | |
| Saturated Fat | 34.1 g | 170% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 320 mg | 107% | |
| Sodium | 3516 mg | 153% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 18.4 g | 7% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.4 g | 19% | |
| Total Sugars | 8.1 g | ||
| Protein | 126.1 g | 252% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 417 mg | 32% | |
| Iron | 7.5 mg | 42% | |
| Potassium | 2148 mg | 46% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.