These Sheet Pan Pork Chops with Roasted Veggies are the ultimate meal for busy nights. The juicy, perfectly seasoned pork chops roast alongside vibrant bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion for a complete, hearty meal all in one pan.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply make a satisfying meal for your family, this dish is a winner. It’s simple, delicious, and full of flavor without any hassle. Plus, the one-pan cleanup means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
Full Recipe:
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4 bone-in pork chops
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon paprika
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1 tablespoon garlic powder
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1 tablespoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon dried rosemary
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 red bell pepper, sliced
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1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
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1 zucchini, sliced
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1 red onion, sliced
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
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In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
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Rub the seasoning mixture all over the pork chops.
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Arrange the pork chops on the sheet pan and surround them with the sliced bell peppers, zucchini, and onion.
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Drizzle the veggies with a little more olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
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Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the veggies are tender.
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Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Recipe Overview
Sheet Pan Pork Chops with Veggies is the perfect one-pan meal that combines juicy, tender pork chops with an assortment of roasted vegetables. It’s an easy, flavorful, and healthy dinner option that’s perfect for busy weeknights or any day you want a comforting meal without too much fuss. This dish is ideal for anyone looking to create a wholesome dinner with minimal prep and cleanup, making it a go-to choice for families and busy individuals alike. The succulent pork chops are seasoned to perfection, while the roasted vegetables bring a delightful mix of textures and flavors to the table.
History and Origin
Pork chops have long been a staple in many cuisines worldwide, especially in the United States, where they are often associated with comfort food. The origins of roasting meat on a sheet pan can be traced back to the rise of quick, efficient cooking methods in the mid-20th century, when busy home cooks sought ways to prepare hearty meals with minimal time and cleanup. The sheet pan cooking method became popular because it allowed for easy roasting of both meats and vegetables in one dish, reducing the time spent on preparation and cleaning.
The idea of pairing pork with vegetables is not new—many cultures have utilized roasted pork and vegetables in their traditional meals. In Western cooking, it’s common to roast pork alongside root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions, while in Mediterranean regions, pork is often paired with bell peppers, zucchini, and tomatoes. This particular recipe, featuring pork chops and a colorful assortment of veggies, is a reflection of modern culinary trends, which emphasize convenience without compromising on taste.
Variations and Adaptations
While the core ingredients of sheet pan pork chops with veggies remain the same, there are countless ways to customize this dish based on your preferences or regional influences. For example, in Mediterranean-inspired variations, you might include olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkling of feta cheese to enhance the flavor profile. The seasoning can also be altered to reflect different cuisines; a combination of lemon, garlic, and rosemary can bring out a fresh, vibrant flavor reminiscent of Italian cooking, while smoked paprika and cumin might give it a more Spanish or Southwest flair.
For a more hearty or autumnal twist, you can replace the zucchini with sweet potatoes or butternut squash, which provide a lovely sweetness when roasted. For those who prefer a spicier dish, consider adding a dash of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for an extra kick.
Additionally, vegetarians or those seeking a meatless alternative can use a plant-based protein instead of pork chops. Tempeh or tofu can be seasoned and roasted in much the same way, providing a similar texture and a great source of protein. Another variation could be swapping the pork for chicken thighs or a leaner cut of beef, which would still work well in the one-pan format but offer a slightly different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information
Sheet Pan Pork Chops with Veggies is a balanced and wholesome dish that offers a solid mix of macronutrients and essential vitamins and minerals. Pork is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is crucial for muscle growth, immune function, and overall health. It also provides a good amount of B-vitamins, particularly B6 and B12, which are important for energy production and nervous system function.
The vegetables in this dish—typically bell peppers, zucchini, and onions—add a range of important micronutrients to the meal. Bell peppers, for example, are rich in vitamin C, which is essential for immune health and collagen production. Zucchini provides a healthy dose of fiber, which helps with digestion, while onions contribute antioxidants that help protect against inflammation and support heart health.
The olive oil used in this recipe is an excellent source of monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. When combined with the vegetables, the pork chops, and the seasoning, the olive oil helps to create a rich, flavorful dish that is satisfying without being overly indulgent.
The approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on a 4-serving recipe) includes:
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Calories: 350 kcal
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Protein: 35g
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Carbohydrates: 20g
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Fat: 18g
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Fiber: 4g
This dish is also relatively low in carbs, making it a good option for those following low-carb or ketogenic diets. However, the addition of veggies ensures that it still provides a healthy dose of fiber, helping to keep you full and satisfied.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Sheet Pan Pork Chops with Veggies is a hearty meal that can stand alone, but there are several creative ways to elevate the experience and offer complementary flavors. For a lighter side, consider serving it with a simple mixed green salad, dressed with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pork.
For those who enjoy a starchier side, roasted potatoes or a wild rice pilaf would pair beautifully with the roasted pork and vegetables, providing a satisfying, well-rounded meal. You could also serve the dish with a slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices and olive oil.
As for beverages, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay would complement the pork nicely, cutting through the richness and providing a refreshing contrast. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a splash of lemon or lime is a great way to cleanse your palate between bites.
Tips and Tricks for Success
To ensure your Sheet Pan Pork Chops with Veggies turns out perfectly, here are a few tips and tricks from the experts:
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Don’t overcrowd the pan: For even cooking and proper browning, make sure the pork chops and veggies are spaced out on the sheet pan. If they’re too crowded, they’ll steam rather than roast.
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Sear the pork chops first: If you have a little extra time, searing the pork chops in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side before transferring them to the sheet pan can help to lock in their juices and create a beautiful, caramelized crust.
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Use fresh herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme work wonderfully with pork, adding an aromatic flavor that brings out the best in the meat. You can also sprinkle a bit of fresh parsley over the veggies before serving for an added pop of color and freshness.
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Adjust the seasoning: If you like your food on the spicier side, feel free to add some chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for an extra kick. Alternatively, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the dish before serving can help brighten the flavors.
Potential Health Benefits
In addition to being a delicious and satisfying meal, Sheet Pan Pork Chops with Veggies also offers a number of health benefits. The lean protein from the pork provides essential amino acids that help build and repair tissues, while the olive oil’s healthy fats contribute to heart health. The array of vegetables in this dish provides valuable fiber and antioxidants, which support digestion and reduce inflammation in the body.
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Zucchini is particularly beneficial for eye health, thanks to its high content of beta-carotene and lutein, while bell peppers are known for their immune-boosting properties due to their high vitamin C content. Together, these ingredients form a well-rounded meal that not only tastes great but nourishes your body.
Conclusion
Sheet Pan Pork Chops with Veggies is a simple yet flavorful meal that will quickly become a favorite in your dinner rotation. It offers a wonderful balance of protein, healthy fats, and vegetables, making it both delicious and nutritious. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or preparing it for a special occasion, this one-pan wonder is sure to please everyone at the table.
If you’re looking for a meal that’s easy to prepare, easy to clean up, and packed with flavor, give this recipe a try. It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings together the rich flavors of pork and the wholesome goodness of roasted vegetables—all in one easy-to-make dish.