Here’s a delightful recipe for Lemon Garlic Pork Chops with Parmesan Tater Tots—a flavorful and satisfying dinner with a crispy twist. 🍋🧄🍖🧀
Ingredients:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (1-inch thick)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
For the Parmesan Tater Tots:
- 1 lb frozen tater tots
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Parmesan Tater Tots:
- Preheat the oven:
- Follow the package instructions for the tater tots, usually around 400°F (200°C).
- Season and Bake:
- Spread tater tots on a baking sheet.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, parsley, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Bake as directed, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
Cook the Pork Chops:
- Marinate the Pork:
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice and zest, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Rub this mixture over the pork chops and let marinate for 15-20 minutes (optional for deeper flavor).
- Sear the Pork Chops:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil.
- Sear pork chops for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
- Deglaze the Pan:
- After removing the pork chops, add a splash of water or chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up the flavorful bits. Drizzle this over the cooked chops.
Serve:
- Plate the pork chops and crispy Parmesan tater tots. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices.
Tips:
- Add a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for a balanced meal.
- For extra lemony flavor, squeeze fresh lemon over the pork chops before serving.
- Use an air fryer for ultra-crispy tater tots if available.
