Tender and Kid-Friendly Cheesy Baked Pork Chops

When you need a pork chop recipe the whole family will love, these gentle cheesy pork chops deliver. Kid-friendly but equally satisfying for adults, these oven-baked chops are coated in crispy, melty Parmesan breadcrumbs then topped with gooey cheese. Baked instead of fried, they come out super tender and juicy inside with a crave-worthy crunchy exterior. Served alongside buttered noodles or rice, it’s comfort food at its best. Let’s talk details so you can make this easy crowd-pleaser tonight!

Go Thick and Boneless

For the most tender and quick cooking chops, choose boneless loin or rib pork chops that are about 1 inch thick. Thicker than traditional chops, they’ll stay nice and moist when baking without drying out. The lack of bone also makes them easier for little ones to eat.

Size Matters

Aim for 4 larger chops rather than 8 smaller to ensure they cook through without overdoing it. Bigger means better with these gentle chops.

Begin With a Simple Brine

Before baking, let those chops take a swim in a quick brine of salt, sugar and water for about 30 minutes. This seasons the meat thoroughly and helps it retain moisture for extra juiciness your kids will love.

Just a Half Hour Does It

A short soak is all you need to reap the benefits of brining without it getting too salty. Rinse after brining and pat the chops dry.

Bread Them for Crunch

Here’s where the magic happens. After brining and drying, coat the chops completely in an egg wash, then press into a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan and Italian seasoning. The egg layer helps the coating stick.

No Plain Breadcrumbs Here

The grated Parmesan really kicks the crunch factor up a notch. Feel free to add other shredded cheeses too if desired.

Bake Until Golden and Crispy

Arrange those fancy breaded chops on a baking sheet and into a hot 400°F oven they go. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until the coating is browned and they’re cooked through.

Embrace the Oven

Baking instead of frying keeps them extra tender and means less mess to clean up afterwards.

Smother in Melty Cheese

Right when the chops come out of the oven, top them with shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or whatever cheese you love. Pop back in the oven just until the cheese melts into gooey deliciousness.

Ooey Gooey Goodness

Adding that cheese topping takes these chops over the top into crazy town. The kids will go nuts for it!

Simple Sides for Little Tummies

These gentle cheesy chops pair perfectly with kid-friendly sides like:

- Buttered egg noodles or pasta

- White or brown rice

- Mashed potatoes

- Roasted broccoli and carrots

Let’s Review This Easy Baked Recipe

For super tender, cheesy baked pork chops the whole family will request again and again:

1. Brine the chops briefly first.

2. Coat in an egg wash and breadcrumb mixture.

3. Bake until crispy and cooked through.

4. Add shredded cheese and bake just until melted.

Top 5 Pork Chop Baking Questions

Do I really need to brine the chops?

Brining makes a big difference in tenderness and juiciness, but you can skip if needed.

Can I use panko breadcrumbs?

Absolutely! Panko will give you an extra crispy coating.

What can I serve with leftover chops?

Chilled chops are great on salads, sliced in sandwiches or wraps, or chopped in pasta.

How long will breaded raw chops last in the fridge?

Breaded raw chops will keep for 2-3 days before baking. Keep chilled.

Can I freeze baked chops?

Yes, freeze cooled baked chops in airtight bags or containers up to 3 months.

In Summary

These gentle cheesy pork chops are a wallet-friendly family favorite. Kids will love the crisp, melty coating and adults will appreciate the tender juiciness. Switch up the cheese or breading to suit your family’s tastes. Just a simple brine and baking does the trick for next level flavor.