Oh boy, do I have a delightful recipe to share with you today! If you’re looking for a dish that’s not only ridiculously easy to make but also unbelievably flavorsome, then you’ll love these Sheet Pan Pork Chops and Potatoes. Honestly, this meal feels like a warm hug right on your plate, and every time I prepare it, I can’t help but reminisce about my family gatherings.
The first time I made this, I had my friends over for dinner, and I was a little worried because I wanted to impress them. But with just one pan and a lightning-fast prep time, these pork chops turned out to be the star of the evening! The simplicity of tossing everything on a sheet pan and letting the oven do the hard work is what makes this dish so special to me. Plus, it gives you time to catch up and have fun while everything cooks away.
What’s in Sheet Pan Pork Chops and Potatoes?
Pork Chops: I like to use bone-in pork chops for this recipe because the bone adds immense flavor and helps keep the meat juicy. If you can find bone-in chops that are about an inch thick, you’ll be golden!
Baby Potatoes: These cute little guys are perfect for roasting! Their creamy texture complements the pork so well. Halving them ensures they cook quickly and soak up all those yummy seasonings.
Olive Oil: A good extra virgin olive oil is my go-to here. It brings richness and enhances the flavors of the herbs and spices.
Garlic Powder & Paprika: These bad boys add a ton of flavor without much fuss. The garlic powder gives that aromatic zing, while paprika brings a lovely warmth and color to the dish.
Dried Thyme & Rosemary: Honestly, I couldn’t imagine this recipe without these herbs. They evoke a rustic, comforting flavor that pairs perfectly with the pork.
Salt and Pepper: Don’t skimp on these! They enhance the natural flavors of both the pork and the potatoes.
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley at the end just makes everything pop. Plus, who doesn’t love a little green garnish?
Lemon Wedges: These are optional but highly recommended! A little squeeze of lemon juice over the finished dish elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
Is Sheet Pan Pork Chops and Potatoes Good for You?
Well, I’d say this dish strikes a good balance!
Pork Chops: They’re a fantastic source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals like B vitamins, zinc, and iron. Just be mindful of portion sizes; moderation is key!
Baby Potatoes: Not only are they delicious, but they also provide essential nutrients like fiber and vitamins C and B6. Plus, the skin adds even more fiber!
Olive Oil: Packed with healthy fats, using olive oil is a big win for heart health. Just don’t overdo it; a little goes a long way.
In short, this meal is rich in protein and packed with flavor, but can also be adjusted for a lighter dish by using less oil or serving with a side of greens!
Ingredients for Sheet Pan Pork Chops and Potatoes
– 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp garlic powder
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
**Serves**: 4
How to Make Sheet Pan Pork Chops and Potatoes?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is super important for getting everything nice and crispy!
2. In a large bowl, toss together the halved baby potatoes, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper until the potatoes are well coated.
3. Arrange the seasoned potatoes around the edges of a large sheet pan. They deserve a cozy spot to roast!
4. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels (ok, let’s kick any moisture to the curb) and season both sides with salt and pepper.
5. Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot and shimmering, add the pork chops. Sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. We want them to have that beautiful color!
6. Transfer the seared pork chops to the sheet pan, nestling them right in the center amidst the potatoes.
7. Pop the pan in the preheated oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the potatoes are fork-tender.
8. When they’re ready, let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving. The resting allows the juices to redistribute and keeps them juicy and tender.
9. Finally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired. Trust me, that squeeze of lemon is practically a VIP guest on your plate!
Serving Suggestions: Make It Yours!
Feel free to switch things up! Want a little kick? Add some crushed red pepper flakes. Prefer a different herb? Try oregano or basil instead! And if you’re feeling fancy, serve it up with a simple side salad or some steamed green beans for a pop of color.
I can’t wait for you to try these Sheet Pan Pork Chops and Potatoes! I genuinely feel you’ll love how forgiving and flexible this recipe is, and how it delivers robust flavors with minimal effort. Can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Happy cooking, my friend!
