These Cheesy Italian Pork Chops are tender, garlic and Italian-seasoned, and topped with melty mozzarella cheese. An easy oven-baked dinner that’s ready fast and perfect for busy weeknights!
Cheesy Italian Pork Chops
Juicy, flavorful, and loaded with melty cheese, these Cheesy Italian Pork Chops are an easy weeknight dinner that feels a little extra special without any extra work.
These rich pork chops are oven-baked brushed with a garlic and Italian seasoning oil, then topped with melted mozzarella cheese. They’re a simple, Italian-inspired twist on classic baked pork chops, adding just enough flavor and richness to make them feel special without complicating dinner.
Simple seasonings, tender pork, and gooey mozzarella come together for a comforting, family-friendly meal that’s ready fast. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crew or just need a reliable dinner win, this one delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy - Ready in about 20 minutes from start to finish.
- Big flavor, simple ingredients - Pantry staples + pork chops = dinner done.
- Juicy and tender - Baked at high heat for perfectly cooked pork.
- Cheesy finish - That melty mozzarella takes it over the top.
- Family-friendly - Mild, savory flavors everyone will love.
What Pork Chops to Use
Choosing the right pork chops makes a big difference in how juicy and flavorful your final dish turns out. Here’s what to look for:
- Bone-in pork chops - These are the best choice for flavor and moisture, helping prevent the meat from drying out.
- Boneless pork chops - A great option if that’s what you have on hand, just keep an eye on cook time since they cook faster.
- Thickness matters - Aim for pork chops about 1-inch thick for the best balance of juicy inside and lightly browned outside.
Tips & Variations
- Use the right cut - Bone-in pork chops stay juicier, but boneless will work too (just reduce cook time slightly).
- Don’t overcook - Pork chops cook quickly. Pull them once they reach 145°F for the best texture.
- Broil for extra melt - If the cheese isn’t fully melted, pop them back in the oven or under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Switch up the cheese - Try provolone, Parmesan, or an Italian blend for a different flavor.
- Add sauce - Spoon marinara over the chops before adding cheese for a more “chicken parm” style version.
- Boost the seasoning - Add red pepper flakes for heat or fresh herbs for extra flavor.
How to Serve Cheesy Italian Pork Chops
These Cheesy Italian Pork Chops are incredibly versatile and pair well with just about anything.
Serve them over pasta with marinara or a simple butter sauce for a hearty, comforting meal, or keep things lighter with roasted or sauteed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots. They’re also delicious alongside mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, or even rice or buttered noodles to soak up all that flavor. Add a simple side salad to round everything out for an easy, well-balanced dinner.
More Pork Recipes You'll Love
- Bacon Swiss Pork Chops - Juicy pork chops topped with crispy bacon and melty Swiss cheese for a rich, savory dinner.
- Instant Pot Kalua Pork - Tender, smoky shredded pork made quickly in the Instant Pot with simple ingredients and big flavor.
- Crockpot Ranch Pork Chops - Creamy, comforting pork chops slow cooked in a flavorful ranch sauce for an easy, hands-off meal.
- Slow Cooker Southern Pulled Pork - Fall-apart tender pork with classic Southern flavor, perfect for sandwiches, bowls, or meal prep.
- Crispy Instant Pot Carnitas - Juicy shredded pork with crispy edges, packed with bold flavor and perfect for tacos, bowls, or burritos.
Cheesy Italian Pork Chops Video
Cheesy Italian Pork Chops
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in pork chops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or oregano
- 1½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place pork chops on prepared baking sheet. Season both sides with salt and pepper.6 bone-in pork chops, Salt and pepper
- In a small mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning.2 tablespoons olive oil, 3 garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or oregano
- Brush oil mixture over pork chops with a pastry brush.
- Bake in a 425° oven for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Remove pork chops, and immediately sprinkle cheese on top to melt. If cheese doesn't melt all the way, pop it back in the oven for an additional 2 minutes.1½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Let rest for 3 minutes before serving. Serve warm.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days.
Nutrition
UPDATE INFO: This post was originally published in September 2016. It has been updated with new pictures, tips, and video and republished in August 2026.
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Helen at the Lazy Gastronome says
I've never put cheese on a pork chop - but this looks so mouthwatering good! Thanks for sharing on the What’s for Dinner link up and don’t forget to leave a comment at the party – Next week’s features that also leave a comment get pinned and tweeted!
Jessica Trigg says
Does it work for boneless too??.
Michelle says
Yes, it does! I just prefer bone-in because I think the meat stays juicier.