Cooking the perfect pork chop is a challenge many home cooks face, not just because of its flavor but also due to its tendency to dry out quickly. Baking pork chops at the right temperature for an appropriate amount of time is key for both taste and safety. Whether you’re new to the kitchen or have some more advanced experience in cooking proteins, this post will provide tips on how long to bake pork chops at 375°F—plus ways to make your dinner delicious while remaining food safe.
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What are pork chops and their nutritional value?
Before know how long to bake pork chops at 375°F, it’s important to understand the type of meat we’re dealing with. Pork chops are a cut of meat from a pig’s loin, located between the shoulder and the leg. They can be purchased bone-in or boneless, with bone-in chops being larger and more flavorful than their boneless counterparts.

Pork chops have an excellent nutritional profile, as they contain protein and essential vitamins such as B-vitamins, zinc, and selenium. Pork chops also have a lower fat content than many other cuts of pork, making them a healthier option.
Different cuts of pork chops available
There are three main types of pork chops available: rib, loin, and shoulder.
– Rib chops are usually the most expensive type of pork chop as they contain a lot of juicy fat marbled throughout. They have the most flavor out of all the different cuts, but can also be quite fatty.
– Loin chops are leaner than rib chops and offer both tenderness and flavor. They’re often sold bone-in or boneless and can be a good option for those looking for a leaner cut of pork.
– Shoulder chops are usually the least expensive type of pork chop, but also lack some flavor compared to other cuts. However, they are still a great option when you’re looking for a leaner and more budget-friendly cut of meat.

Why temperature and time matter when baking pork chops?
When baking pork chops, it’s important to pay attention to both temperature and time. Low cooking temperatures can result in undercooked pork chops, which increases the risk of foodborne illness. High temperatures can cause the meat to dry out or even burn. The ideal temperature for baking pork chops is 375°F, as this will ensure that your dish is cooked through and juicy.
The length of time you cook your pork chops at 375°F will depend on how thick they are. Generally, thicker cuts should be cooked for longer), while thinner cuts can take less time. Testing the internal temperature with a food thermometer is the best way to ensure pork chops are cooked through. The internal temperature should be 145°F or higher in order for the pork chops to be considered safe to eat.
How long to bake pork chops at 375°F?
For most recipes, baking pork chops at 375°F is the recommended temperature to ensure they are properly cooked through. Bone-in pork chops should be cooked for 25-30 minutes, while boneless pork chops can be cooked in 15-20 minutes.
It is important to keep a close eye on your pork chops as they bake—a meat thermometer will help you monitor the internal temperature of the meat. The USDA recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of 145°F, which should take about 25-30 minutes for bone-in pork chops. Once the meat reaches this temperature, it is safe to consume.
How to make your baked pork chops at 375 flavorful and delicious?
Once you’ve determined how long to bake pork chops at 375°F, there are several ways you can elevate the flavor of your dish. Consider marinating your pork chops in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, herbs such as rosemary and thyme, and citrus juice. This can give the pork chops an added flavor boost before cooking.
Basting with melted butter or a flavorful sauce during baking can also help keep the meat moist and flavorful. For a crispy coating, you can also dip the pork chops in beaten egg and roll them in breadcrumbs before baking.
Can you bake pork chops from frozen?
It is not recommended to bake pork chops from frozen. Pork chops should be thawed completely before baking in the oven to ensure even cooking. To thaw frozen pork chops, you can place them in the refrigerator overnight or use a microwave-safe plate and follow the directions on your microwave. Once the pork chops are fully thawed, you can proceed with baking them in the oven as directed.
Do you bake pork chops covered or uncovered?
For the most part, pork chops should be baked uncovered. Baking them uncovered helps ensure that they are properly cooked through by evaporating any excess moisture and promoting even cooking.

If you’re looking for a crispier crust on your pork chops, you can loosely cover them with aluminum foil during the last few minutes of baking to help them crisp up.
Types of seasonings and marinades to add flavor to your pork chops
When it comes to seasoning pork chops, the possibilities are endless! Try combining herbs such as oregano, thyme, rosemary or sage with garlic or onion powder for an easy and flavorful marinade. You can also experiment with different spices such as cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, and chili powder.
For an acidic marinade, try combining citrus juice with olive oil and herbs. You can also add a bit of honey or brown sugar for sweetness. Finally, don’t forget to season the pork chops generously with salt and pepper before baking them in the oven.
Tips for perfectly baked pork chops every time
– Before baking, let your pork chops rest at room temperature for 20 minutes to ensure even cooking.
– Use a meat thermometer to test the internal temperature of your pork chops—it should reach 145°F before consuming.
– Marinate the pork chops in olive oil and herbs for extra flavor before baking.
– Baste with melted butter or a flavorful sauce during baking for added moisture.
– If desired, dip the pork chops in beaten egg and roll them in breadcrumbs before baking for a crispy coating.

How to tell if your pork chops are done?
The best way to determine if your pork chops are done is by using a food thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the pork chop and wait 15 seconds or until you reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
Once your pork chops have reached this temperature, they are safe to consume. If you don’t have a food thermometer, you can also check for doneness by cutting into the pork chops. If the meat is cooked through and no longer pink in the middle, it is ready to eat.
What to serve with baked pork chops for a delicious meal?
Pork chops pair well with a variety of side dishes that can make for a complete and satisfying meal. Consider serving your baked pork chops with roasted vegetables such as sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or squash. A fresh green salad is also an excellent accompaniment to pork chops.
Additionally, mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes are great options for soaking up the flavorful juices from the pork chops. For a light and summery dish, try serving your pork chops with grilled vegetables and a side of couscous or quinoa.
Whatever you decide to serve with your baked pork chops, make sure to follow food safety guidelines by keeping raw meat separate from cooked foods and washing utensils thoroughly after each use.

How do you store leftover baked pork chops?
If you have any leftover cooked pork chops, follow these food safety guidelines to store them:
– Let the pork chops cool before storing them.
– Place the pork chops in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil.
– Store the pork chops in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
– Reheat the pork chops in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
How to reheat baked pork chops at 375?
If you have leftover pork chops that were baked at 375°F, you can reheat them in the oven or microwave.
– To reheat in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F and place the pork chops on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
– To reheat in the microwave, place the pork chops on a plate and cover them loosely with a damp paper towel. Heat for 1-2 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Conclusion: How long to bake pork chops at 375
Baking pork chops at 375°F is an easy way to prepare a flavorful and food safe meal. Be sure to marinate your pork chops in olive oil and herbs for extra flavor before baking, baste with butter or a flavorful sauce during baking, and don’t forget to use a meat thermometer to make sure the internal temperature of your pork chops reaches 145°F before consuming! Finish with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or salad, and don’t forget to store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
FAQs Pork chops
Do you bake pork chops at 350 or 375?
For a succulent pork chop dinner, baking at 375 F is recommended by the USDA for an internal temperature of 145 degrees. However, if you’re looking to add extra flavor and caramelization to your meal, bake it up in the oven at 400F instead.
Is it better to bake pork chops at 350 or 400?
Get the most out of your pork chop experience by baking at a cozy 350 degrees! A lower temperature will allow for more tender and evenly cooked deliciousness, plus it’s perfect for giving those thicker chops (1-2 inches) all the time they need to finish. So crank up that oven, sit back, relax – dinner is on its way.
Is it better to bake pork chops fast or slow?
For perfect pork chops every time, slow cooking is my go-to method. It’s a simple process that yields succulent and tender results – always sure to satisfy.
What temperature is best for baking pork chops?
Tempting pork chops, about 1¼-inch thick can be cooked to perfection with just a few minutes in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. The instant-read thermometer will show when it’s done – 145°F and good to go.
How fast does pork cook at 375?
To achieve the perfect pork dish, start by cooking it at 375 F for 40 to 60 minutes. Don’t guess when your meat is done– use an instant-read thermometer and make sure you’re between 140 F and 170 F internally before taking it off.
What is the best way to cook pork chops without them drying out?
Craving some juicy pork chops but don’t want them to dry out? Try our unique “sear-roasting” method! Start by frying the meat in high heat, getting it nice and golden brown. Then flip ’em over and pop those beauties into a moderately hot oven (400 degrees F). Keeps your chop moist, succulent…and utterly delicious.
Can you overcook pork chops in oven?
Pork chops are a popular, lean cut that can quickly go from flavorful to dry and tough if overcooked. Whether roasted in the oven or grilled on the stovetop, it doesn’t take long for these delicate cuts of meat to become unappetizingly chewy!
How long to cook pork chops in oven at 180?
Whip up an easy and tasty oven-roasted dinner with succulent pork chops! Simply preheat your oven to 180°F, pop the chops in for 30 minutes (or until they reach 165°F internally), then enjoy a safe yet juicy meal.
Do I cover pork chops with foil when baking?
Baking your pork chops with some foil can help keep them nice and moist while they cook, but it’s not necessary. If you do choose to cover them in foil, be sure to remove it for the last 10 minutes of cooking time to allow the top of the chops to get nicely browned.
What is the average time to bake pork chops?
Enjoy juicy, succulent pork chops in no time with this simple baking technique! Preheat your oven to 350 F and let the meat cook for 20-30 minutes uncovered. For even more flavor and moisture lock-in, cover it up with aluminum foil – 18-25 minutes is all you need to get perfectly cooked pork done at 145 F internally.
Susan Muskat is a professional chef with over 25 years of experience in the culinary industry. After working in some of the most prestigious restaurants in the world, she opened her own restaurant, Moose and Sadie’s, which quickly became a local favorite. Susan is also the author of a blog all about recipes, guidelines, cooking tips, and knowledge from professional chefs. She loves nothing more than sharing her passion for food with others.