Parmesan Baked Meat Chops

### Instructions

#### Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prep the Meat
1. **Preheat your oven** to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. This will help the chops crisp up while baking.

2. **Prepare the meat**: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a crispy coating, as moisture can cause the breading to sog up. Season the meat chops on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

#### Step 2: Prepare the Coating
3. **Make the Parmesan coating**: In a shallow dish or bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, and any additional seasoning you like. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed. The Parmesan and breadcrumbs will form a crunchy crust when baked.

4. **Prepare the egg wash**: In another bowl, whisk together the egg, milk (or buttermilk), and Dijon mustard (if using). This mixture will help the coating stick to the meat.

#### Step 3: Coat the Meat
5. **Dredge the chops**: Dip each pork chop into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, press it into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, ensuring the meat is covered completely. For an extra-crispy crust, you can press down gently on the breading to help it adhere better.

#### Step 4: Bake the Meat Chops
6. **Place the chops on the baking sheet**: Arrange the coated chops in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle a little olive oil or melted butter over the top of each chop. This will help the crust turn golden and crispy while the meat stays moist.

7. **Bake**: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C) for a safe and juicy result. The Parmesan crust should be golden and crispy.

8. **Broil for extra crispiness**: If you want an even crispier top, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, but be sure to watch closely to avoid burning.

#### Step 5: Rest and Serve
9. **Rest the chops**: Once done, remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring it stays tender and moist.

10. **Garnish** (optional): Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top of the pork chops for a burst of color and a hint of freshness.

11. **Serve and enjoy**: Serve the Parmesan-baked meat chops with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. The crispy crust, tender meat, and savory flavors make this dish a hit every time.

### Tips for Perfect Parmesan Baked Meat Chops

– **Use Fresh Parmesan**: Freshly grated Parmesan will provide a much better flavor and texture than pre-grated cheese. It also melts more evenly and crisps up nicely in the oven.

– **Panko Breadcrumbs**: If you can, use panko breadcrumbs rather than regular breadcrumbs. Panko is lighter and airier, giving the crust a wonderful crispness that holds up well during baking.

– **Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet**: Make sure there is enough space between each chop on the baking sheet. This allows the hot air to circulate around the meat, helping it cook evenly and ensuring the crust stays crispy.

– **Temperature Check**: For perfectly cooked meat, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Pork chops should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), followed by a rest period of 3 minutes.

– **Add Flavor Variations**: You can customize the coating by adding your favorite seasonings. For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumbs. For an herbaceous touch, try adding fresh rosemary, thyme, or basil to the coating.

– **For Juicy Meat**: If you’re using thinner chops, be sure to check them earlier to avoid overcooking. For thicker cuts, they may need a few more minutes. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your meat.

### Why You’ll Love Parmesan Baked Meat Chops

**Parmesan Baked Meat Chops** are the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress. The crispy, golden crust pairs perfectly with the tender, juicy meat inside, making each bite a savory delight. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or hosting friends, these Parmesan-encrusted chops are sure to be the star of the meal.

Not only are they delicious, but this dish is also incredibly versatile. You can serve them with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a simple salad for a meal that’s both satisfying and balanced. The best part? You don’t need to deep-fry them to get that crispy texture, making this an oven-baked recipe that’s healthier yet just as flavorful.

So next time you’re looking for an easy yet impressive dinner idea, give **Parmesan Baked Meat Chops** a try—they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!