Perfect Pork Chop and Potato Recipe in 45 Minutes

Get perfectly cooked, juicy pork chops with crispy roasted potatoes in just 45 minutes using this foolproof recipe. This complete guide delivers restaurant-quality results with simple ingredients: 1-inch thick bone-in pork chops, Yukon Gold potatoes, olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs. Follow our step-by-step instructions for pork cooked to the USDA-recommended 145°F internal temperature with a 3-minute rest period, and potatoes with golden, crunchy exteriors and fluffy interiors.

There's nothing quite like the satisfying combination of tender pork chops and perfectly roasted potatoes on the dinner table. This classic pairing delivers comfort food perfection with minimal effort when you know the right techniques. As a chef with decades of experience teaching home cooks professional methods, I've refined this recipe to eliminate common pitfalls that lead to dry pork or soggy potatoes.

Why This Pork Chop and Potato Recipe Works

The magic happens through proper temperature control and timing. Unlike many online recipes that suggest higher temperatures, cooking pork chops at 400°F creates the ideal Maillard reaction without overcooking. The USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service confirms that pork is safe to eat at 145°F with a 3-minute rest period, which many home cooks still don't know (USDA.gov).

Selecting Your Ingredients

Quality ingredients make the difference between ordinary and extraordinary:

Pork Chop Selection Guide

Choose 1-inch thick bone-in chops for best results. The bone helps conduct heat evenly and adds flavor. Look for chops with marbling throughout - this fat renders during cooking, keeping the meat moist. Avoid pre-marinated options which often contain excessive sodium.

Potato Varieties Compared

Potato Type	Best For	Cooking Time	Flavor Profile
Yukon Gold	All-purpose roasting	25-30 minutes	Buttery, rich
Russet	Crispy exteriors	30-35 minutes	Earthy, neutral
Red Potatoes	Keeping shape	20-25 minutes	Mild, waxy

For this recipe, Yukon Golds provide the perfect balance of crispiness and creamy interior. Their naturally buttery flavor complements pork beautifully without needing excessive fats.

Essential Equipment

You don't need specialty tools, but these make a difference:

• Oven-safe cast iron or stainless steel skillet (for searing and roasting)
• Meat thermometer (critical for perfect doneness)
• Sharp chef's knife (for herb preparation)
• Mixing bowl (for potato coating)

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preparation (10 minutes)

1. Remove pork chops from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature
2. Dry chops thoroughly with paper towels (moisture prevents browning)
3. Rub with 1 tsp oil and season generously with salt and pepper
4. Cut potatoes into 1-inch chunks and toss with 2 tbsp oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, rosemary, salt, and pepper

Cooking (35 minutes)

5. Preheat oven to 400°F with rack in center position
6. Heat 1 tbsp oil in skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering
7. Sear pork chops 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown
8. Remove chops and set aside; add potatoes to same skillet
9. Roast potatoes 15 minutes, stirring once
10. Return pork chops to skillet, placing them on top of potatoes
11. Roast 12-15 minutes until pork reaches 140°F internally
12. Remove from oven, cover loosely with foil, and rest 3 minutes (temperature will rise to 145°F)

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Even experienced cooks make these errors:

• Overcrowding the pan: Creates steam instead of sear - cook in batches if necessary
• Moving chops too soon: Wait until they release naturally from the pan
• Cutting to check doneness: Use a thermometer instead to prevent juice loss
• Skipping the rest period: Essential for redistributing juices throughout the meat

According to culinary research from the Culinary Institute of America, resting meat for 3 minutes after cooking allows proteins to reabsorb up to 40% more moisture (CIA.edu).

Serving Suggestions

Pair your pork chops and potatoes with:

• A simple green salad with vinaigrette
• Applesauce or cranberry relish for acidity
• Steamed green beans or asparagus

For wine pairings, a medium-bodied Pinot Noir or oaked Chardonnay complements the richness without overwhelming the dish.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating:

• Oven method: 350°F for 10-15 minutes covered with foil
• Air fryer: 325°F for 5-7 minutes for crispy results
• Avoid microwave: Makes potatoes soggy and dries out pork

Freeze cooked pork chops for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating. Potatoes don't freeze well due to texture changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the ideal internal temperature for pork chops?

The USDA recommends cooking pork chops to 145°F internal temperature followed by a 3-minute rest period. This ensures food safety while maintaining juiciness. Using a digital thermometer is essential for accuracy.

Can I use boneless pork chops in this recipe?

Yes, but reduce cooking time by 2-3 minutes as boneless chops cook faster. Bone-in chops generally stay juicier during cooking due to the bone's insulating effect, but boneless works well if watched carefully.

Why do my potatoes stick to the pan?

Potatoes stick when the pan isn't hot enough before adding them or when you try to move them too soon. Ensure your skillet is properly preheated and let potatoes cook undisturbed for 5 minutes to develop a crust before stirring.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

Reduce oil by 25% and use sweet potatoes for added nutrients. You can also increase the potato-to-pork ratio for more vegetables. The recipe remains delicious with these modifications while lowering saturated fat content.