How long does it take to bake pork chops at 350ºF? Let’s find out!
Did you know that the FDA has a recommended cooking time for pork chops? It may surprise you when you know the answer.
Plenty of variables, like thickness and type of pork chop, can affect the cooking timings, but after this article, you will have all the answers.
There is nothing quite like a juicy, tender pork chop. But how long do you bake them at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for the perfect doneness?
Check out our recipe below to find out!
What is the best temperature to bake pork chops?
The best temperature to bake pork chops depends on the thickness of the chops and your desired level of doneness. For thick chops, a temperature of 325 degrees Fahrenheit will give you nicely browned pork that is cooked but still juicy.
However, if you prefer your pork chops on the well-done side, you’ll need to bake them at a higher temperature, around 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Thinner pork chops, meanwhile, can be cooked at a lower temperature, around 300 degrees Fahrenheit. This will result in juicy, tender pork cooked through but not dry or tough.
How long does it take to bake pork chops at 350ºF?
Regarding pork chops, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how long to cook them. The thickness of the chops, as well as the type of cut, will both impact the cooking time.
For example, boneless pork chops will cook more quickly than bone-in chops.
As a general guideline, pork chops should be cooked for about 25-30 minutes per inch of thickness at 350ºF.
How long does it take to bake thin pork chops at 350ºF?
Thin pork chops, typically 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch thick, will cook more quickly than thick pork chops.
They can be baked at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20-25 minutes. The best way to ensure perfectly cooked pork chops is to use a meat thermometer.
Inserted into the center of the chop should read 145 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-rare meat or 160 degrees Fahrenheit for well-done meat.
By keeping an eye on the internal temperature of the pork, you can avoid overcooking or undercooking it.
How long does to bake bone-in pork chops at 350ºF?
Bone-in pork chops, typically 1-inch to 2-inches thick, will take a bit longer to bake than boneless pork chops. They should be cooked at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 30-35 minutes.
They will be slightly pink in the center and juicy throughout when cooked properly. With a little practice, you’ll soon develop a feel for the perfect cooking time for your favorite pork chop recipe.
How to Bake Pork Chops at 350ºF
Ingredients
- 4 Pork chops
- 1 teaspoon Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Rub each pork chop with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
- Place the pork chops on a baking sheet and bake for 20-30 minutes or until cooked through.
- Enjoy!
How do I know when the pork chops are done?
One of the most common questions home cooks have is how to know when meat is cooked through. With pork chops, the answer is quite simple.
First, use your thumb and index finger to make an “OK” sign. Then, press down on the pork chop. If it feels very firm, it is likely overcooked. If it feels very soft, it is probably undercooked.
For perfect pork chops, you’re looking for a middle ground where the meat yields slightly to the pressure of your fingers.
Of course, this method is not foolproof, so if you’re unsure, err on the side of caution and pull the pork chops off the heat a minute or two earlier than you think they need.
Better to have slightly dry pork chops than tough and rubbery ones.
Should I cover the pork chops with foil?
One common mistake people make when baking pork chops is to cover them with foil while they cook. This traps moisture in, which can make the pork chops wet and soggy.
For perfectly baked pork chops, leave the foil off and allow them to cook uncovered in a preheated oven. This will help them to develop a nice, crisp exterior while remaining juicy on the inside.
If you find that your pork chops are browning too quickly, you can tent them with foil for the last few minutes of cooking. This will help to prevent them from burning without making them soggy.
Can I add or replace some ingredients?
If you want to get a bit creative with your pork chops, there are a few ways you can mix things up.
One simple way to change the flavors is using a different seasoning or spice rub. Just a few tablespoons of your favorite dry rub can add a lot of flavor to pork chops.
Another easy way to change things is to add a sauce or glaze. A simple BBQ sauce, honey, mustard, or even a sprinkling of brown sugar can add a new dimension to your pork chops.
Lastly, you can replace the pork chops with chicken breasts or thighs if you prefer. Just cook for the same time at the same temperature, and you’ll end up with delicious and juicy chicken.
Tips and tricks for a better recipe
First of all, if you want your pork chops to be extra juicy, brine them before cooking. Simply soak the chops in a mixture of water and salt for 30 minutes, then rinse and pat them dry before cooking.
- To add flavor to your pork chops, try marinating them for a few hours before cooking. Mix your favorite herbs and spices with olive oil and vinegar, then soak the chops in the mixture.
- For crispy pork chops, bread them before baking. Dip the chops in some beaten eggs, then coat in bread crumbs or flour. Then, bake as usual.
- If you want to add a bit of sweetness to your pork chops, try glazing them with honey and mustard sauce. Simply mix honey and mustard together, then brush the sauce on the chops before cooking.
- Another easy way to add flavor to pork chops is to rub them with a spice blend before cooking. Try combining paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for a simple but tasty seasoning.
- To keep your pork chops from sticking to the pan, use a non-stick baking sheet or line the sheet with parchment paper.
- Before baking, you can coat your pork chops in olive oil or spray them with cooking spray. This will help to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- If you’re short on time, you can cook your pork chops in the oven at a higher temperature. Just keep an eye on them, so they don’t dry out or overcook.
- For extra-crisp pork chops, try pan-frying them before baking. Simply heat some oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat, then cook the chops for a few minutes per side. Then, transfer to a baking sheet and bake as usual.
- Another way to flavor baked pork chops is to top them with a sauce or gravy before serving. Try using your favorite barbecue sauce, marinara sauce, or cream of mushroom soup.
Finally, if you want to get creative with your pork chop recipe, try adding some chopped vegetables to the baking dish. This is a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients.
Final Words
Pork chops are a popular and delicious main dish, but they can be tricky to cook. You will have perfectly cooked and juicy pork chops by following the above recipe.
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