This simple sheet pan dinner features juicy pork chops alongside crispy potatoes, all cooked right on one pan. It’s a real time-saver for busy days!
Who doesn’t love an easy cleanup? I throw everything on one sheet pan and relax while it cooks. Perfect for lazy nights when I want a delicious meal without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend bone-in pork chops for juicy flavor. If you prefer boneless, they will work too. You can also substitute chicken thighs or breasts for a lighter option.
Baby Potatoes: These are tasty and cook quickly. If you can’t find baby potatoes, regular potatoes cut into small pieces will do. Sweet potatoes make a delicious swap as well!
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps seasonings stick. Feel free to use avocado oil or vegetable oil instead if you’re looking for a different flavor or a higher smoke point.
Spices: Garlic powder, smoked paprika, and thyme really boost the dish. If you’re out of thyme, Italian seasoning works great as a replacement. Fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano can add a nice touch too!
How Can I Ensure My Pork Chops Stay Juicy?
Keeping pork chops juicy can be a bit tricky. Here are some tips to help you out:
- Choose bone-in chops; they stay moisture-rich while cooking.
- Rub the chops with oil and seasonings; this helps create a flavorful crust.
- Do not overcook! Use a meat thermometer to check for 145°F for perfect doneness.
- Let them rest after cooking. This step lets the juices redistribute for tender meat.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have deliciously juicy pork chops every time!
Easy Sheet Pan Pork Chops and Potatoes Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
For Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dinner takes about 10 minutes to prep and approximately 30 minutes to bake, making it a quick and efficient meal option. In total, you’ll need around 40 minutes from start to finish, allowing for a tasty meal without a long wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure it’s hot enough to achieve beautifully cooked pork chops and crispy potatoes.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a large bowl, gather the baby potatoes and drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over them. Sprinkle half of the garlic powder, half of the smoked paprika, half of the thyme, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Toss everything together until the potatoes are well coated.
3. Arrange the Potatoes:
Spread the seasoned potatoes out evenly on one side of the lined sheet pan, making sure there’s space for the pork chops!
4. Season the Pork Chops:
In the same bowl, rub the remaining olive oil over the pork chops. Season them with the rest of the garlic powder, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure they’re nicely coated—this will help them stay juicy and flavorful.
5. Place the Pork Chops:
Position the seasoned pork chops on the other side of the sheet pan, ensuring they don’t touch so they cook evenly.
6. Roast Everything:
Pop the sheet pan into your preheated oven and roast everything for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are golden and tender, and the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Broiling for Crispiness (Optional):
If you like a bit of extra crunch, turn on the broiler for about 2-3 minutes at the end. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
8. Rest and Garnish:
Take the sheet pan out of the oven and let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps the juices settle back into the meat.
9. Serve with Style:
Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty touch!
Enjoy your easy and delicious sheet pan pork chops and potatoes dinner with your loved ones! It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy gathering.
FAQ for Easy Sheet Pan Pork Chops and Potatoes Dinner
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine; just be mindful to adjust the cooking time slightly as they may cook a bit faster. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Baby Potatoes?
If you can’t find baby potatoes, you can use regular potatoes cut into small pieces or sweet potatoes for a different flavor. Just ensure they are similar in size for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth or water can help keep everything moist during reheating!
Can I Prepare This Meal Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the potatoes and season the pork chops a few hours ahead. Just refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. This will save time and allow the flavors to meld beautifully!
