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Cooking Pork Chop Recipes in the Oven: Baked Pork Chops and Butternut Squash

My baked pork chops with butternut squash are probably one of the best oven-baked pork chop recipes you’ve ever cooked at home. View the recipe and video below!

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Oven-Baked Pork Chops and Butternut Squash

In this delightful culinary creation, I bring together two classic ingredients – succulent pork chops on the bone and tender butternut squash – to create a harmonious and satisfying dish. The pork chops, seasoned to perfection, are baked alongside sweet and nutty butternut squash, resulting in a symphony of flavors that embodies the essence of fall.

The pork chops, with their juicy, savory appeal, complement the creamy and slightly earthy notes of the roasted butternut squash, forming a pair that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. As these two elements bake together, the pork infuses the squash with its rich juices, while the squash, in turn, imparts a subtle sweetness to the meat.

This recipe offers a delicious twist on traditional baked pork chops, elevating the dining experience by introducing the delightful addition of butternut squash. The result is a meal that is not only visually appealing but also brimming with fall's warm and comforting flavors. Whether you're seeking a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish for a special occasion, these Baked Pork Chops with Butternut Squash are the perfect choice.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 1 15

Total Time 1 30

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories

Ingredients

70/2 (oz/kg) thick pork chops on the bone (8 large chops)
35/1 (oz/kg) butternut squash, peeled
1-2 tsp ginger powder
salt and ground black pepper to taste
4-6 garlic cloves or to taste
10/300 (fl oz/ml) water or stock
a handful of fresh herbs such as lovage, rosemary, thyme, or coriander

Instructions

Cut the butternut squash into larger chunks.
Place the pork chops on a tray.
Sprinkle some salt and rub the chops for better seasoning.
Grind over some black pepper to taste.
Cut and place garlic rounds over the chops.
Place the fresh herbs between the chops.
Pour about a glass of water or stock into the tray.
Seal the tray with aluminum foil, the place it into the preheated oven at 360F/180C for about 45-60 minutes or until the meat on the chops is soft.
Remove the foil and the chops in the tray.
Place the pumpkin chunks on the tray, sprinkle some ginger powder and salt, then place the chops over them.
Place the tray back in the oven at 430F/220C for about 30-45 minutes or until the chops are browned.
Remove the chops from the tray, then place the tray back for about 15 minutes or until the sauce in the tray is very low and the pumpkin is roasted evenly.
Serve the baked pork chops along with roasted pumpkin and other side dishes of your choice.

Video

Notes

Cooking Tips for the Best Results:

1: Flavor Balance – When using ginger powder, aim for a balanced flavor profile. Start with a conservative amount of ginger and adjust to your taste to avoid overwhelming the dish.

2: Check Doneness – Ensure the pork chops are cooked to their safe internal temperature, typically 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to guarantee they are perfectly cooked without overcooking.

3: Timing Matters – Keep track of cooking times carefully, so the pork chops are golden and the butternut squash is tender without overcooking either component.

4: Rest the Meat – Allow the pork chops to rest for a few minutes after removing them from the oven. This helps retain their juiciness and ensures a better dining experience.

5: Presentation – To create an appealing dish, arrange the roasted butternut squash and golden pork chops beautifully on the serving platter. A visually pleasing presentation adds to the overall dining experience.

FAQs about Baked Pork Chops with Butternut Squash

Can I use fresh ginger instead of ginger powder for this recipe?

Certainly, you can substitute fresh ginger for ginger powder. Simply peel and finely mince fresh ginger to add a vibrant, slightly spicy kick to your dish. Keep in mind that the flavor profile may be more intense with fresh ginger, so adjust the quantity to your taste.

What can I serve alongside baked pork chops with butternut squash?

Baked pork chops with butternut squash pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes such as steamed vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or even garlic mashed potatoes for a heartier meal. The choice of side dish depends on your preferences and the occasion.

How do I know when the butternut squash is fully cooked?

The butternut squash is ready when it becomes tender and easily pierced with a fork. Its color should turn a beautiful golden hue, and the texture should be soft but not mushy.

Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless pork chops if you prefer. The cooking time may be slightly shorter for boneless chops, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. The flavor will still be delightful.

Can I prepare this dish in advance and reheat it later?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it when needed. To maintain the best texture, store the pork chops and butternut squash separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at a low temperature to preserve their delicious flavors and textures.

Simple Baked Pork Chops with Butternut Squash