Perfect Pork and Potato Recipe: Ready in 45 Minutes

This pork and potato recipe delivers perfectly cooked pork chops with crispy roasted potatoes in just 45 minutes using 7 simple ingredients. No special equipment needed, and the USDA-recommended internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) ensures safe, juicy results every time.

Looking for a satisfying dinner that's ready in under an hour with minimal cleanup? This one-pan pork and potato recipe solves your weeknight cooking dilemma with tender pork chops and golden roasted potatoes that complement each other perfectly. As a chef who's worked in both professional kitchens and home cooking environments, I've refined this method to eliminate common pitfalls while maximizing flavor and texture.

Why This Pork and Potato Combination Works

The magic happens through strategic timing and temperature control. Unlike many recipes that cook everything together from start to finish, this method accounts for the different cooking requirements of pork versus potatoes. By starting the potatoes first and adding the pork later, you achieve crispy potatoes without overcooking the meat.

Ingredient	Why It Matters	Smart Substitutions
Pork chops (1½ inches thick)	Thicker cuts stay juicy during cooking	Pork tenderloin or bone-in chops
Russet potatoes	High starch content creates perfect crispness	Yukon Gold for creamier texture
Avocado oil	High smoke point prevents burning	Grapeseed or light olive oil

Essential Equipment Checklist

You don't need specialty tools for this pork potato recipe. A standard 12-inch oven-safe skillet handles everything. If you don't have an oven-safe pan, transfer everything to a baking dish after the stovetop portion. A reliable meat thermometer is non-negotiable for perfect pork chops every time – the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service confirms that 145°F (63°C) with a 3-minute rest is the safe minimum internal temperature for pork.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preparation Phase (10 minutes)

• Pat pork chops completely dry with paper towels – moisture is the enemy of browning
• Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides
• Cut potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes for even cooking
• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)

Cooking Sequence (35 minutes)

1. Toss potatoes with 2 tablespoons oil, salt, and pepper in hot skillet
2. Roast potatoes for 15 minutes while you prepare pork
3. Add pork chops to skillet, searing 3-4 minutes per side until golden
4. Transfer entire skillet to oven for 12-15 minutes
5. Remove when pork reaches 140°F (60°C) – it will continue cooking to 145°F
6. Rest pork 5 minutes before serving

Professional Technique Tips

Based on my experience in Michelin-starred kitchens, these details transform good results into exceptional ones:

• Temperature transition: Pull pork at 140°F, not 145°F – carryover cooking adds the final 5 degrees
• Resting is non-negotiable: Five minutes allows juices to redistribute – cutting too soon causes moisture loss
• Potato spacing: Spread potatoes in single layer with space between pieces for proper crisping
• Acid balance: A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving brightens the rich flavors

Serving and Storage Guidance

Serve immediately with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. Leftovers keep well in airtight containers for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. For best reheating results, use an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes rather than a microwave, which makes potatoes soggy. According to the National Center for Home Food Preservation, properly stored cooked pork maintains quality for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Customization Options for Different Diets

This versatile pork potato recipe adapts easily:

• Lower carb: Replace half the potatoes with radishes or turnips
• Gluten-free: Naturally compliant – no modifications needed
• Spicy version: Add 1 teaspoon smoked paprika to the seasoning mix
• Herb variation: Toss with fresh rosemary or thyme during the last 5 minutes of cooking

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen potatoes for this pork and potato recipe?
While possible, fresh potatoes yield superior texture. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat very dry to prevent steaming instead of roasting.

What's the best pork cut for this one-pan meal?
Bone-in loin chops provide the best flavor and moisture retention, but boneless works well too. Avoid thin-cut chops as they overcook too quickly.

How can I tell when potatoes are perfectly roasted?
They should be golden brown with crisp exteriors and offer slight resistance when pierced with a fork – about 25-30 minutes total cooking time.

Can I prepare this pork chop and potato dinner ahead?
You can cut and season ingredients ahead, but for best results, complete the cooking process just before serving to maintain texture.

What temperature should pork chops reach for food safety?

The USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service recommends cooking pork to 145°F (63°C) with a 3-minute rest period for safe consumption.