Sheet Pan Pork Chops and Potatoes

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pork Chops: I recommend bone-in pork chops for maximum flavor and juiciness. If you can’t find them, boneless chops work, too, but watch the cooking time as they may cook faster.

Baby Golden Potatoes: These are great for roasting because they become creamy inside and crispy outside. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with Yukon Gold potatoes or white potatoes, cut into similar-sized pieces.

Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness and helps with browning. If you prefer, you can use avocado oil or vegetable oil for a different flavor or since they have a higher smoke point.

Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices! Italian seasoning instead of thyme or chili powder instead of smoked paprika can give it a unique twist.

How Can You Get Perfectly Juicy Pork Chops?

To keep your pork chops juicy, avoiding overcooking is essential. Here’s how to ensure they turn out just right:

• Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C); this guarantees they’re safe and still juicy.
• Allow the chops to rest for 5 minutes after baking—they’ll continue to cook slightly from the residual heat.
• Don’t skip seasoning! Proper seasoning before cooking enhances the overall flavor.

Sheet Pan Pork Chops and Potatoes

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For The Meat:

• 2 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)

For The Potatoes:

• 1 pound baby golden potatoes, halved

For The Seasoning:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme leaves)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

How Much Time Will You Need?

This simple and delicious dinner will take about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 25-30 minutes to cook. Just pop everything on a sheet pan, and you’re set for about 40 minutes total, including resting time. Quick and easy!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This helps to ensure that everything cooks evenly and gets that nice golden color.

2. Prepare the Potatoes:

In a large bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the potatoes are well-coated in the seasoning.

3. Arrange the Potatoes:

Spread the seasoned potatoes out on one side of your prepared sheet pan in a single layer. This will allow them to roast nicely.

4. Season the Pork Chops:

Rub the pork chops on both sides with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Generously season them with salt, pepper, and an additional sprinkle of smoked paprika if you like.

5. Place Everything on the Pan:

Now, place the seasoned pork chops on the other side of the sheet pan, right next to the potatoes. They’ll both cook beautifully together.

6. Roast it All Together:

Put the sheet pan in the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Make sure to flip the pork chops and stir the potatoes halfway through cooking so that everything gets evenly browned.

7. Check for Doneness:

Use a meat thermometer to check that the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The potatoes should be tender and golden brown.

8. Final Touches:

If you want extra crispy pork chops, you can broil them for an additional 2-3 minutes. Just watch carefully to avoid burning. Once done, remove the pan from the oven and let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep them juicy!

9. Garnish and Serve:

Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the pork chops and potatoes before serving. Enjoy your flavorful and satisfying sheet pan dinner!

Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?

Absolutely! You can swap out the baby golden potatoes for other root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or brussels sprouts. Just ensure they are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

How Do I Know When the Pork Chops Are Done?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. Pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Let them rest for a few minutes before serving to keep them juicy!

Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?

Yes! You can prep the pork chops and potatoes in advance, season them, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just make sure they sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before roasting to ensure even cooking.

What Sauce Pairs Well With This Dish?

A simple gravy made from the drippings, or a garlic herb butter sauce, can elevate this dish. You could also serve it with a side of applesauce or mustard for a flavor contrast!