Elevate your weeknight dinners with these irresistible Pesto Pork Chops, a perfect blend of savory and zesty flavors. This simple yet sophisticated recipe features tender, bone-in pork chops seared to golden perfection, then topped with a vibrant layer of basil pesto and a sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese. Baked to juicy tenderness alongside roasted cherry tomatoes drizzled with balsamic vinegar, these chops boast a mouthwatering balance of rich, herby, and tangy notes. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy evenings yet elegant enough for entertaining. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a restaurant-quality presentation and serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad for a complete and unforgettable meal. Keywords: pesto pork chops, easy pork chop recipe, quick dinner ideas, basil pesto recipes, baked pork chops.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season both sides of the pork chops with salt and black pepper.
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from heat.
Spread a generous tablespoon of basil pesto evenly over the top of each pork chop.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pesto layer.
Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet around the pork chops, then drizzle the tomatoes with balsamic vinegar.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, and serve warm with your favorite side dishes.
Calories |
2688 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 192.5 g | 247% | |
| Saturated Fat | 56.1 g | 280% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 574 mg | 191% | |
| Sodium | 3877 mg | 169% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 17.7 g | 6% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.3 g | 15% | |
| Total Sugars | 8.2 g | ||
| Protein | 209.4 g | 419% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 534 mg | 41% | |
| Iron | 10.0 mg | 56% | |
| Potassium | 3134 mg | 67% | |
*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.