Italian Herb Pork Chops with Roasted Red Pepper Italian Dressing

There’s a magic that happens when simple, honest ingredients come together with a touch of Mediterranean flair. For me, this dish evokes memories of crisp autumn evenings, the aroma of savory herbs wafting from the kitchen, and the promise of a comforting, yet elegant, meal. I recall a particularly busy week, juggling deadlines and a demanding schedule, when I stumbled upon this recipe. It was a revelation – a way to achieve deep, satisfying flavor with minimal fuss, proving that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to create something truly special. The vibrant red pepper dressing, a shortcut I initially approached with a touch of skepticism, proved to be a game-changer, infusing the tender pork chops with a bright, zesty counterpoint that cut through the richness beautifully. It’s become a go-to for those nights when time is short but the desire for deliciousness is high.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yield: 4 pork chops
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free (ensure dressing is dairy-free)

Ingredients

For the Italian Herb Pork Chops:

• 4 large pork chops
• 2 tablespoons dried Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons onion powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1/4 cup olive oil

For the Roasted Red Pepper Italian Dressing Topping:

• 1/4 cup Kraft roasted red pepper Italian parmesan dressing (Note: While the original recipe specifies this brand, feel free to use your favorite roasted red pepper Italian dressing. Ensure it complements the savory pork.)

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Tongs
• Plate or clean surface for resting pork chops
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Optional: Meat thermometer

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing your workspace. Gather all your ingredients and ensure they are measured and ready. This mise en place approach is key to smooth cooking, especially when working with a quick recipe.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the 1/4 cup of olive oil to the skillet. Allow the oil to shimmer, indicating it’s hot enough to sear.
3. While the skillet heats, take your 4 large pork chops. Pat them dry with a paper towel. This is a crucial step for achieving a good sear and a flavorful crust.
4. In a small bowl or directly on a plate, combine the 2 tablespoons of dried Italian seasoning, 2 tablespoons of onion powder, and 1 tablespoon of garlic powder. Mix these dry seasonings together thoroughly.
5. Sprinkle each pork chop evenly with the herb and onion and garlic powder mixture. Ensure all sides of the pork chops are well coated with the seasoning blend.
6. Carefully place the seasoned pork chops into the hot skillet. You should hear a satisfying sizzle as they make contact with the oil.
7. Sear on both sides of the pork chops. This typically takes about 3-4 minutes per side, or until a golden-brown crust has formed. The searing locks in the juices and builds a wonderful depth of flavor.
8. Once both sides are seared, turn the heat down to low.
9. Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil.
10. Let pork chops cook covered until done on both sides. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your pork chops. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135-140°F (57-60°C). For medium, 145°F (63°C). For well-done, 160°F (71°C). A good rule of thumb is about 5-7 minutes per side on low heat after searing, but always rely on a meat thermometer for accuracy. Avoid overcooking to ensure tenderness.
11. Once the pork chops are cooked to your desired doneness, carefully remove them from the skillet using tongs.
12. After pork chops are drained on both sides, place them on a plate.
13. Immediately cover with the dressing. Spoon the 1/4 cup of Kraft roasted red pepper Italian parmesan dressing over the hot pork chops. The residual heat will slightly warm the dressing and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
14. While the pork chops rest and absorb the dressing, prepare your side dish. Cook your favorite brand of garlic butter rice following directions on the package. The savory, buttery rice is the perfect accompaniment to the herb-infused pork and zesty dressing.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Achieving the Perfect Sear: Don’t overcrowd the pan. If your skillet isn’t large enough to accommodate all four chops without touching, sear them in two batches. This ensures a proper crust rather than steaming the meat.
• Seasoning is Key: While the dried seasonings are convenient, don’t be shy! Ensure a generous and even coating on all surfaces of the pork chops for maximum flavor.
• Doneness Check: A meat thermometer is your best friend here. Insert it into the thickest part of the chop, avoiding bone. Remember that pork is safe to eat at 145°F (63°C) and will continue to cook slightly as it rests.
• Dressing Application: Apply the dressing while the pork chops are still hot. This allows them to absorb some of the dressing’s flavor and creates a delightful glaze as the pork rests.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these Italian Herb Pork Chops immediately, topped generously with the roasted red pepper Italian dressing. The garlic butter rice is an ideal companion, soaking up any delicious pan juices. For a complete meal, consider serving with a simple side salad of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette or some steamed green beans.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, or in a covered oven-safe dish at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can sometimes make pork chops tough. The dressing can also be used as a dipping sauce for reheated pork.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	362.3 kcal
Calories from Fat		69 %
Total Fat	27.8 g	42 %
Saturated Fat	6.8 g	34 %
Cholesterol	75 mg	25 %
Sodium	69.9 mg	2 %
Total Carbohydrate	4.3 g	1 %
Dietary Fiber	0.4 g	1 %
Sugars	1.7 g	6 %
Protein	23.2 g	46 %

Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used, particularly the dressing.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spice it Up: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dry seasoning mix.
• Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh Italian herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano, mince them finely and use them in place of or in addition to the dried seasoning for an even more vibrant flavor. About 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs per teaspoon of dried herbs is a good ratio.
• Different Cuts: This recipe works well with other cuts of pork, such as pork loin chops or even thicker-cut pork steaks. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on thickness.
• Dressing Alternative: If you can’t find Kraft roasted red pepper Italian parmesan dressing, any good quality roasted red pepper dressing or even a robust Italian vinaigrette would be a suitable substitute. For a homemade option, you could blend roasted red peppers with olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, Italian herbs, and a touch of parmesan cheese.

FAQs

Q: Can I marinate the pork chops in the dressing beforehand?
A: While the dressing is intended as a finishing sauce, you could experiment with a short marination (30 minutes to 1 hour) in a portion of the dressing. However, be mindful that the acidity in some dressings can alter the texture of the meat if left too long.

Q: My pork chops are quite thick. How can I ensure they cook through without drying out?
A: For thicker chops (over 1 inch), searing is still essential. After searing, reduce the heat to low and cover. You may need to increase the covered cooking time by a few minutes. Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable way to check for doneness without overcooking.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
A: Yes, leftovers store well. However, the texture of the pork is best when reheated gently. The dressing can also be kept separate and added just before serving to maintain its vibrancy.

Q: What makes this dish “Italian”?
A: The use of classic Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme in the seasoning blend, along with the Mediterranean-inspired roasted red pepper Italian dressing, gives this dish its distinct Italian character.

Q: Can I grill these pork chops instead of pan-searing?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dry seasoning blend as directed and then grill the pork chops over medium-high heat until seared on both sides and cooked through. Finish with the roasted red pepper Italian dressing once they come off the grill.

A pretty easy and tasty meal made within 35 minutes. It’s a testament to how quickly a satisfying and flavorful dinner can come together with the right ingredients and a straightforward approach. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, casual entertaining, or anytime you crave a taste of Italian-inspired comfort. Don’t hesitate to share your culinary creations and feedback – we love to hear about your successes in the kitchen!