Introduction – Why Choose Creamy Cheez-it Pork Chops?

Creamy Cheez-it Pork Chops are a deliciously unique twist on the classic pork chop recipe. This dish features tender, juicy pork chops coated in a creamy mayonnaise base and covered in a crunchy, cheesy Cheez-it crust. The combination of savory Parmesan cheese and the sharp flavor of white cheddar Cheez-its creates a perfectly balanced, mouthwatering crust that contrasts beautifully with the juicy meat.

What makes these pork chops so special is how the Cheez-it coating adds both flavor and texture to the dish. The crackers provide a satisfying crunch that complements the smooth and creamy mayonnaise. This recipe is a game-changer, turning a simple pork chop into something extraordinary with minimal effort.

Creamy Cheez-it Pork Chops are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal for family and friends. The crunchy coating seals in the pork’s natural juices, keeping the meat tender and flavorful. The best part? It’s so simple to make! Just a few ingredients and you’ll have an unforgettable meal that’ll leave everyone asking for the recipe. Ready to elevate your pork chop game? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Basic Recipe – How to Make Creamy Cheez-it Pork Chops

Creamy Cheez-it Pork Chops – A Flavorful & Crunchy Twist on Pork Chops

Author: Jennifer Mitchell
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

These Creamy Cheez-it Pork Chops are a savory, cheesy delight with a crispy, flavorful crust. The pork chops are coated in a creamy mayonnaise mixture, then encrusted with crushed white cheddar Cheez-its and Parmesan cheese, creating a satisfying dish that’s both crunchy and creamy. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Thinly cut pork chops (about 4 pieces, depending on size)
1 to 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise
2 cups white cheddar Cheez-its, finely crushed
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings to taste (suggested: salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or any seasoning blend you prefer)

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the pork chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help the coating stick better.
Prepare the creamy coating: In a small bowl, mix 1 to 1 1/2 cups of mayonnaise with your choice of seasonings. This mixture will be used to coat the pork chops. Adjust the amount of mayo based on how thick you want the coating to be.
Prepare the Cheez-it and Parmesan crust: In another bowl, combine the finely crushed Cheez-it crackers with the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until combined.
Coat the pork chops:

First, dip each pork chop into the mayonnaise mixture, ensuring both sides are fully coated.
Next, press the mayonnaise-coated pork chop into the Cheez-it and Parmesan mixture, coating the pork chop generously on both sides.

Bake the pork chops:

Place the coated pork chops on a greased baking sheet or in a baking dish.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pork chops are fully cooked and the crust is golden and crispy. The internal temperature of the pork chops should reach 145°F (63°C).

Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can add a bit of hot sauce, Dijon mustard, or lemon juice to the mayonnaise mixture.
If you prefer a thicker crust, feel free to double the amount of crushed Cheez-its and Parmesan cheese.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 pork chop
Calories: 450
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 22g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 38g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Creamy Cheez-it Pork Chops

A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the coating stick better. Season both sides of the pork chops with your preferred seasonings (such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, or onion powder).

Step 2: Coat the Pork Chops

In a shallow dish, spread the mayonnaise evenly over both sides of each pork chop. You want the pork chops to be generously coated but not soaked.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheez-it Coating

In a separate shallow dish, combine the finely crushed Cheez-its and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix the two ingredients until they’re evenly distributed.

Step 4: Coat and Cook

Press the mayo-coated pork chops into the Cheez-it mixture, making sure to coat both sides completely. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil to coat the bottom. Carefully place the pork chops into the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps retain the juices. Serve with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

Advanced Techniques – Perfecting Your Creamy Cheez-it Pork Chops

Searing the Pork Chops

For an extra-crispy crust, sear the pork chops in a hot skillet before baking. This will help lock in moisture while also creating a nice, golden-brown color on the outside.

Baking for Even Cooking

If you prefer to finish the pork chops in the oven, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). After searing both sides in the skillet, transfer the pork chops to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes until fully cooked.

Adding Extra Flavors

You can enhance the flavors of the Cheez-it crust by mixing in fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley. Adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can also give the dish an extra kick.

Try Different Cheese Variations

While white cheddar Cheez-its are a great choice, feel free to experiment with other flavors like sharp cheddar, parmesan, or even garlic-flavored Cheez-its to customize the coating to your liking.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Creamy Cheez-it Pork Chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Freezing for Later

This dish also freezes well. After cooking, let the pork chops cool completely. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.

Avoiding Overcooking

To ensure the pork chops stay tender and juicy, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Overcooking can make them dry, so aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

Gluten-Free Version

For a gluten-free option, substitute the Cheez-its with gluten-free crackers. You can also use gluten-free bread crumbs to create a similar texture and flavor.

Low-Fat Adaptation

To reduce the fat content, swap out the mayonnaise for a low-fat version or use Greek yogurt. Choose a reduced-fat Parmesan cheese for a lighter version.

Dairy-Free Version

For a dairy-free alternative, use dairy-free mayonnaise and plant-based cheeses to replace the Cheez-its and Parmesan cheese.

Vegan Variation

For a fully vegan version, replace the pork chops with plant-based meat or tofu. Use vegan cheese and mayonnaise to create a delicious dairy-free, animal-free dish.

FAQs – Common Questions About Creamy Cheez-it Pork Chops

Can I use bone-in pork chops?

Yes! Bone-in pork chops work just as well as boneless. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the pork chops and apply the mayonnaise and Cheez-it coating ahead of time. Store them in the fridge until ready to cook.

What should I serve with these pork chops?

These pork chops go great with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. Pair them with a crisp salad for a balanced meal.

Can I make the Cheez-it crust spicier?

Absolutely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the Cheez-it mixture to kick up the heat.

Conclusion – Enjoy Your Creamy Cheez-it Pork Chops!

Creamy Cheez-it Pork Chops offer a fantastic balance of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy textures. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish takes pork chops to a whole new level of flavor. The unique Cheez-it crust seals in the juiciness of the pork, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or serving up something special for guests, these pork chops are sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe for a fun and flavorful twist on traditional pork chops. Enjoy your meal and make it a go-to favorite!