Pesto Topped Pork Chops
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with these mouthwatering Pesto Topped Pork Chops—a perfect fusion of bold flavors and simplicity. Juicy, pan-seared pork chops are seasoned to perfection and crowned with a vibrant layer of basil pesto and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, creating a rich, savory topping that melts into every bite. With a golden sear and an irresistible crust, these chops are ready in just 30 minutes, making them an effortless yet impressive choice for family meals or entertaining. Optional garnishes of cherry tomatoes and fresh basil add a pop of color and freshness, while versatile pairing options like roasted veggies or a crisp salad complete this satisfying dish. Whether using homemade or store-bought pesto, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your table.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 pieces Pork chops (bone-in or boneless, 1-inch thick)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 0.5 cup Pesto (homemade or store-bought)
- 0.25 cup Fresh Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes (optional, for garnish)
- 4 leaves Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Season both sides of the pork chops with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once the skillet is hot, add the pork chops. Sear for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F/63°C).
Reduce heat to medium if the chops start to brown too quickly to avoid burning.
Remove the cooked pork chops from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for 5 minutes.
Generously spread 1-2 tablespoons of pesto over the top of each pork chop.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pesto layer.
Optional: Garnish with halved cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves for extra color and flavor.
Serve the pesto-topped pork chops immediately while warm. Pair with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
566 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 40.8 g | 52% | |
| Saturated Fat | 11.3 g | 57% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 117 mg | 39% | |
| Sodium | 856 mg | 37% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 5.3 g | 2% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.4 g | 5% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.1 g | ||
| Protein | 44.3 g | 89% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 154 mg | 12% | |
| Iron | 2.5 mg | 14% | |
| Potassium | 740 mg | 16% | |
*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.
