Crispy Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops – A Cheap & Fancy Dinner

Looking for a restaurant-quality meal on a budget? These Crispy Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops are juicy, flavorful, and coated in a golden, crunchy crust that tastes fancy but is incredibly affordable!

With just a few simple pantry ingredients, you can make tender, crispy pork chops that are perfect for busy weeknights, special occasions, or meal prep—all for under $2 per serving!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Budget-Friendly – Pork chops are cheaper than steak but just as satisfying.
✔ Crispy & Juicy – The Parmesan crust locks in moisture for tender, flavorful chops.
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes!
✔ Versatile – Pairs with pasta, mashed potatoes, or veggies.
✔ Baked or Pan-Fried – Choose your preferred cooking method!

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🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps it simple with affordable pantry staples.

For the Pork Chops:

• 4 boneless or bone-in pork chops (¾-1 inch thick) 🛒 Best budget-friendly pork cuts
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp milk or water
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

👉 Want to save more? Use crushed crackers or cornflakes instead of breadcrumbs!

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📝 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

1. Pat dry the pork chops with a paper towel.
2. In a shallow bowl, whisk together egg and milk.
3. In another bowl, mix Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Coat the Pork Chops

4. Dip each pork chop into the egg mixture, coating both sides.
5. Press into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating.

Step 3: Cook the Pork Chops

Pan-Fried Method (Extra Crispy!)

6. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Cook pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
8. Transfer to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Baked Method (Less Mess!)

6. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
7. Place coated pork chops on a greased baking sheet.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and cooked through (internal temp of 145°F).

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💰 Cost Breakdown (Estimated per Serving)

Total cost per serving: ~$1.75

• Pork chops (4 pieces) – $6.00
• Parmesan cheese (½ cup) – $1.50
• Breadcrumbs (½ cup) – $0.50
• Egg, seasonings, olive oil – $1.00

🛒 Save more by:
✅ Buying bone-in pork chops (cheaper than boneless).
✅ Using store-brand Parmesan instead of premium brands.
✅ Making homemade breadcrumbs from stale bread.

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🥗 What to Serve with Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops

Pair these crispy pork chops with easy, budget-friendly sides:

✔ Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes – Super creamy mashed potatoes
✔ Roasted Veggies – Quick & easy roasted vegetables
✔ Simple Side Salad – Easy salad ideas

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🔍 Common Questions

What’s the Best Pork Chop for This Recipe?

✔ Boneless pork chops – Cook faster and are easier to eat.
✔ Bone-in pork chops – More flavorful & budget-friendly.
✔ Thin-cut chops – Fry faster but can dry out—watch closely!

👉 Guide to choosing pork cuts

Can I Use Chicken Instead of Pork?

Yes! Use chicken breasts or thighs and follow the same method. Adjust cooking time as needed.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes! Bread the pork chops up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.

How Do I Store & Reheat Leftovers?

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months (best if unbaked).
• Reheat: Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 5 minutes.

👉 How to store crispy fried foods

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🛒 Where to Buy Cheap Pork Chops & Ingredients

💡 Want to save even more? Check out:

• Aldi & Walmart – Affordable pork & pantry staples.
• Costco or Sam’s Club – Buy bulk pork chops for big savings.
• Local Butchers & Farmers Markets – Sometimes cheaper than supermarkets!

🔗 More money-saving grocery tips:

• How to Grocery Shop on a Budget
• Best Cheap Pantry Staples

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Final Thoughts: A Fancy Meal for Less

These Crispy Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops prove that you don’t need a big budget to enjoy a gourmet-style meal at home. With simple ingredients and an easy cooking method, you’ll have a golden, juicy, and ultra-crispy pork chop dinner that tastes better than takeout!

👉 What’s your favorite way to cook pork chops? Share in the comments below!

📌 Loved this recipe? Pin it for later!

🔗 More budget-friendly meal ideas:

• 25 Cheap & Easy Dinner Recipes
• 10 Quick & Affordable Weeknight Meals
• How to Cook Gourmet Meals on a Budget