These Oven-Baked Pork Chops with Potatoes are a quick and easy way to enjoy juicy, caramelized pork chops with crispy, golden potatoes. Slathered in a savory and slightly sweet country-style sauce, this dish is packed with flavor and perfect for a hearty meal. With minimal prep and just one pan, this is a fuss-free dinner that the whole family will love!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 pork chops (bone-in, about 200-250g each)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
For the Potatoes:
- 800g (1.6 lbs) baby potatoes, halved if large
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 220°C (430°F) standard or 200°C (390°F) fan-forced.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Toss baby potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper and spread them on a baking tray. Bake for 15 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, garlic, and apple cider vinegar.
- Coat the Pork Chops: Slather the pork chops with the sauce, reserving some for basting later.
- Bake the Pork Chops: Remove the tray from the oven, toss the potatoes, and push them to the edges. Place the pork chops in the center and bake for 15 minutes.
- Broil for Caramelization: Switch the oven to broil/grill on high (about 8 inches from heat source). Flip the pork chops, brush with reserved sauce, and broil for 7-10 minutes until caramelized.
- Final Baste & Serve: Brush the chops with the pan juices for extra flavor. Broil for an additional 2 minutes if needed. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Nutrients (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 555
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Protein: 27g
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 409mg
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 9g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is packed with incredible flavors and textures, making it a must-try recipe. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- One-Pan Simplicity – The entire meal cooks on a single baking tray, meaning less mess and easy cleanup.
- Juicy & Caramelized Pork Chops – The sweet and savory glaze caramelizes beautifully under the broiler, creating restaurant-quality pork chops.
- Crispy, Golden Potatoes – Roasted alongside the pork, the potatoes soak up all the delicious pan juices and seasonings.
- Quick & Easy Preparation – With minimal prep time and a total cooking time of under 40 minutes, this is a great weeknight meal.
- Balanced & Satisfying – The combination of lean protein, hearty potatoes, and a rich sauce makes this a well-rounded and filling dish.
The Secret to Perfectly Juicy Pork Chops
Pork chops can sometimes turn out dry or tough, but with a few simple tricks, you can achieve perfectly juicy and flavorful results every time:
- Choose the Right Cut – Bone-in pork chops are recommended as they retain more moisture and have extra flavor from the bone.
- Use a Thick Cut – Pork chops that are about ¾ to 1 inch thick cook more evenly and stay juicy.
- Don’t Overcook – Pork chops should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for tender and juicy meat.
- Caramelize for Extra Flavor – A final broil or grill step helps develop a deep golden crust, sealing in the juices.
- Let Them Rest – Allowing the pork chops to rest for 5 minutes after baking ensures the juices redistribute, keeping them moist.
The Perfect Sweet & Savory Sauce
The homemade sauce used in this recipe is what sets these pork chops apart. A combination of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet ingredients creates a rich glaze that caramelizes beautifully under high heat.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Adds a deep umami flavor that enhances the meatiness of the pork.
- Ketchup & Brown Sugar – The natural sweetness helps create a sticky, caramelized crust.
- Soy Sauce – Balances the sweetness with a touch of saltiness and depth.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Brings brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the dish.
- Garlic & Olive Oil – Infuse the sauce with aromatic flavors that enhance the overall taste.
This easy-to-make sauce ensures that each bite is flavorful, juicy, and packed with depth.
The Best Potatoes for Roasting
Not all potatoes roast the same way, so choosing the right type ensures crispy, golden results. Here’s what works best:
- Baby Potatoes – Their thin skin crisps up beautifully, and they have a creamy texture inside.
- Yukon Gold Potatoes – Known for their buttery flavor and golden color, they roast to a perfect balance of crisp and fluffy.
- Red Potatoes – These hold their shape well and develop a crispy exterior while remaining soft inside.
Customizing the Recipe to Your Taste
This recipe is already packed with flavor, but you can easily customize it to suit your preferences:
- Add More Vegetables – Toss in carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans for extra nutrition and color.
- Make It Spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a little heat.
- Use Honey Instead of Brown Sugar – Honey provides a slightly floral sweetness that works beautifully in the sauce.
- Try Different Seasonings – Add smoked paprika, rosemary, or thyme to enhance the dish’s flavors.
- Swap the Protein – Use chicken thighs, bone-in chicken breasts, or even pork tenderloin for a different variation.
What to Serve with Oven-Baked Pork Chops & Potatoes
While this dish is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate the meal even further. Here are some great serving ideas:
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables – A side of roasted asparagus, green beans, or broccoli adds color and nutrients.
- A Fresh Salad – A crisp garden salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
- Dinner Rolls or Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the extra sauce and pan juices.
- Creamed Spinach or Coleslaw – Adds a creamy, refreshing contrast to the warm, roasted flavors.
- Apple Sauce – A classic pairing with pork, adding a sweet, tangy contrast.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftovers, this dish stores well and reheats beautifully:
- Refrigerate – Store pork chops and potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the Oven – Place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying.
- Reheat in a Skillet – Warm on medium heat with a splash of broth to keep the pork chops juicy.
- Avoid Microwaving – While possible, microwaving can make the pork chops tough. Reheating in the oven or skillet works best.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, but boneless pork chops cook faster and may dry out more easily. Reduce the baking time and check for doneness at 12-15 minutes.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the sauce and marinate the pork chops in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The potatoes can also be pre-cut and stored in water until ready to roast.
What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
You can substitute it with soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, or a splash of steak sauce for a similar depth of flavor.
How do I know when the pork chops are done?
Use a meat thermometer—pork is safely cooked when it reaches 145°F (63°C). Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
Conclusion
These Oven-Baked Pork Chops with Potatoes are a simple yet incredibly flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend dinner. With juicy, caramelized pork chops, crispy roasted potatoes, and a rich, tangy glaze, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Not only is it easy to make in one pan, but it’s also customizable, budget-friendly, and great for meal prep. Whether you’re serving it as a family dinner or for guests, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.