Shake and Bake pork chops are a classic for a reason. They’re easy to make, and they’re a quick and convenient dinner option when you’re short on time. For many people, Shake and Bake brings back memories of childhood dinners.
If you’re ready to ditch the boxed version, this article provides a comprehensive guide to making delicious homemade Shake and Bake pork chops. We’ll cover everything from the ingredients you’ll need to the best cooking methods for getting them just right. Get ready to make the best pork chop shake and bake recipe you’ve ever tried!
Why make your own Shake and Bake?
You might be thinking, “Why bother making my own Shake and Bake when I can just buy it at the store?” Here’s why:
- Better Flavor: When you make it yourself, you get to decide exactly what seasonings to use.
- It’s Cheaper: A big batch of homemade Shake and Bake costs way less than those little boxes at the grocery store.
- It’s Healthier: You know exactly what’s going into your food, so you can skip all the weird additives and preservatives.
- It Tastes Fresher: Fresh spices just taste better!
Key Ingredients for Homemade Shake and Bake Pork Chops
The beauty of homemade shake and bake is that you know exactly what’s going into your food. Here’s a rundown of the ingredients you’ll need:
Breadcrumbs
You’ve got a couple of choices here: fine breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs. Panko will give you a crisper coating, while fine breadcrumbs are more traditional. You can also make your own breadcrumbs if you want complete control over the ingredients.
Seasonings
This is where you can really get creative! The basics are salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Feel free to play around with the spice blend to suit your taste. Dried thyme or rosemary can add a nice herbal touch.
Oil
A little bit of oil helps the breadcrumbs stick to the pork chops and promotes browning in the oven. Neutral-flavored oils like vegetable or canola oil work best here.
Choosing the right pork chops
For this recipe, aim for pork chops that are about an inch thick. Thicker chops retain moisture better during cooking.
You can use bone-in or boneless chops. Bone-in chops usually have more flavor, but they take a little longer to cook. Boneless chops are fast and easy to eat.
Pork loin chops and center-cut chops are both great options.
STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO MAKING SHAKE AND BAKE PORK CHOPS
Here’s how to make delicious, crispy pork chops using the shake and bake method.
Preparing the Breading Mixture
First, you’ll need to combine the breadcrumbs, spices, and oil. You can do this in a resealable bag or a shallow dish — whatever you find easiest.
Make sure you mix the ingredients thoroughly so that everything’s evenly distributed. This will help you coat the pork chops evenly later on.
Coating the Pork Chops
Before you start coating, pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This will help the breading stick better.
Now, place the pork chops in the breading mixture. If you’re using a bag, shake it well to coat the chops on all sides. If you’re using a dish, press the breading onto the chops to make sure they’re fully covered.
Baking Instructions
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Place the coated pork chops on a baking sheet.
Bake for 20-25 minutes if your pork chops are about an inch thick. But remember, the best way to tell if they’re done is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F.
For even browning, flip the pork chops halfway through the cooking time.
Tips for crispy Shake and Bake pork chops
Want to make sure you get the crispiest pork chops possible? Here are a few tips:
- Use a wire rack. Place a wire rack on top of your baking sheet and arrange the pork chops on the rack. The rack promotes airflow, which helps the chops cook evenly and get crispier.
- Try broiling. For the last minute or two of cooking, you can broil the pork chops. Keep a close eye on them so they don’t burn!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Make sure the pork chops have plenty of space around them. If they’re too close together, they’ll steam instead of crisping.
- Pat them dry. Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from the pork chops before you coat them. This will help the breading stick and crisp up.
The importance of a meat thermometer
I know, I know…you’d rather not. But trust me on this one. A meat thermometer is the only way to know if your pork chops are done and safe to eat.
According to the USDA, the safe internal temperature for pork is 145°F. Stick that thermometer in the thickest part of the chop and make sure you hit that number!
Also, let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after cooking. The internal temperature will keep rising a little bit during that rest period.
Cooking variations: air fryer and bone-in chops
You can use this recipe in a variety of ways, including swapping out the baking step for air frying, or using bone-in pork chops rather than boneless.
Air fryer method
If you’re looking for a speedier, healthier alternative to oven baking, the air fryer is your friend. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Next, place the coated pork chops in the air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t overlapping. Cook for about 12 to 14 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
Bone-in pork chops
If you like the flavor and presentation of bone-in pork chops, you can certainly use them in this recipe. Just know that you’ll need to cook them slightly longer than boneless chops. Always use a meat thermometer to make sure your pork chops have reached an internal temperature of 145°F.
Serving Suggestions and Accompaniments
Shake and Bake pork chops go with just about anything. If you want to keep it classic, serve them with mashed potatoes and gravy. You can’t go wrong!
For a healthy side, try serving them with roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts. Steamed green beans or a fresh salad are also great options.
Rice pilaf, quinoa, or couscous also make excellent accompaniments and can help round out the meal.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Got leftovers? Keep your cooked Shake and Bake pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll be good for 3-4 days.
Want to get a head start? You can mix the breading ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Easy peasy!
Troubleshooting
Soggy pork chops? Make sure you’re using a wire rack! Don’t overcrowd the pan, either.
Dry pork chops? Use thick-cut chops. And be careful not to overcook them!
Summary
Homemade Shake and Bake pork chops are easy to make, budget-friendly, and so much tastier than the store-bought kind. Have fun experimenting with different spices and herbs to create your own signature blend. Just be sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure your chops are cooked to a safe and delicious temperature!