Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s been a total game-changer in my kitchen: Ritz Cracker Pork Chops. Think of it as the comfort food equivalent of a warm hug – crispy, savory, and surprisingly simple to make. I remember my grandma used to whip this up on busy weeknights, and the smell alone would have us kids practically glued to our chairs. It’s definitely got that retro vibe, but trust me, the flavor is timeless. If you love classic breaded pork chops, just wait ’til you try this version with the buttery, salty goodness of Ritz crackers. It’s a total flavor explosion!

What is Ritz Cracker Pork Chops?

So, what exactly are Ritz Cracker Pork Chops? Well, it’s essentially pork chops coated in a crushed Ritz cracker mixture instead of the usual breadcrumbs. Think of it as a leveled-up version of classic breaded pork chops. The Ritz crackers add a buttery, slightly salty flavor that’s just irresistible. It’s essentially taking a humble cut of meat and transforming it into something truly special with just a few simple ingredients. It’s also super kid-friendly, which is always a win in my book. This is comfort food, plain and simple. And it’s a snap to throw together, even on the craziest of evenings. My family requests it at least once a month, and I’m never sad to oblige!

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Oh, where do I even begin? This Ritz Cracker Pork Chops recipe is a winner for so many reasons. First off, the flavor is out of this world. The buttery, salty Ritz crackers create this unbelievably crispy and flavorful crust that perfectly complements the juicy pork inside. It’s seriously addictive! Secondly, it’s incredibly easy to make. I’m talking minimal ingredients and minimal effort – perfect for those nights when you just don’t have the energy to spend hours in the kitchen. What I love most about this recipe is how budget-friendly it is. Pork chops are generally a pretty affordable cut of meat, and Ritz crackers are a pantry staple. So you can create a delicious, satisfying meal without breaking the bank. And let’s not forget about versatility! You can serve these Ritz Cracker Pork Chops with just about anything – mashed potatoes, green beans, a simple salad…the possibilities are endless. This recipe is definitely a family favorite, and I know it will be yours too. It’s way more interesting than plain old breaded pork chops but just as easy to prepare. In fact, my kids actually prefer this to fried chicken some nights! That’s saying something.

How do I make Ritz Cracker Pork Chops?

Quick Overview

Making these Ritz Cracker Pork Chops is ridiculously easy. You simply crush up some Ritz crackers, dip your pork chops in an egg mixture, coat them in the crushed crackers, and then bake them until they’re golden brown and juicy. Seriously, that’s it! What makes this method special is the flavor and texture that the Ritz crackers bring. They create a crust that’s both crispy and tender, with a buttery flavor that you just can’t get from regular breadcrumbs. It’s also a relatively healthy way to cook pork chops, since you’re baking them instead of frying them. If you’re nervous about cooking pork, don’t be! These are almost foolproof.

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops: What are the
* 4 boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick. I prefer boneless because they cook more evenly, but bone-in works too. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* 1 cup Ritz crackers, finely crushed. Don’t skimp on the Ritz! That’s the whole point of this recipe. I usually put them in a ziplock bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour. This helps the egg mixture adhere to the pork chops.
* 2 large eggs, beaten. These act as the “glue” for the cracker coating.
* 1/4 cup milk. Adding milk to the egg mixture helps to thin it out and create a lighter coating. I’ve even used almond milk in a pinch and it worked great!
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Adds a nice savory flavor to the coating.
* 1/2 teaspoon salt. Enhances the flavor of the pork and the crackers.
* 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper. Adds a little bit of spice.

What are the steps to

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray. How do I clean pork chops? I always line my baking sheet with parchment paper too – just makes everything even easier. I’ve forgotten this step before and ended up with a mess!

Step 2: Prepare Three Bowls

In the first bowl, place the flour and in the second bowl whisk together the eggs and milk. In the third bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Is it important to have three separate bowls for easy dipping? I always label my shoes with a little piece of tape so I don’t get confused – especially when I’m trying to remember what they are. What is the best way to cook with kids?

Step 3: Coat the Pork Chops

Dredge each pork chop in the flour, making sure to coat both sides. Then, dip it in the egg mixture, again coating both sides. Finally, press it into the crushed Ritz cracker mixture, ensuring that the entire pork chop is covered. The flour helps the egg stick, and the egg helps the Ritz crackers stick – it’s a whole system! Don’t be afraid to really press the crackers into the pork chops to ensure a good coating.

Step 4: Bake

Place the pork chops on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is tender. Remove from the oven and allow to cool. The pork chops are cooked through and golden brown. The internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). I always use a meat thermometer to make sure they’re cooked properly. Nobody wants dry pork chops! How long does it take to bake pork chops? If they start to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent them with foil.

Step 5: Rest & Serve

How do I remove pork chops from oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving? What are some of the best ways to reduce the amount of juices in pork chops? Why don’t you skip this step?

What should I serve it with?

What do you serve Ritz Cracker Pork Chops with? What are the possibilities?For a Classic Comfort Meal:What are some good combinations of mashed potatoes and Green Beans? The creamy mashed potatoes pair perfectly with the crispy pork chops, and the green beans add a nice crunch. Touch of freshness.What is a simple weeknight dinner?What are some quick and easy side salads and steamed rice? I love a simple vinaigrette with my salad to balance out the richness of the pork chops.For a More Elegant Meal:What are some good ways to eat asparagus and quinoa? The asparagus adds a touch of sophistication, and the quinoa provides an excellent source of protein and fiber.My Family’s Favorite:What are some good side dishes to serve with mac and cheese? What is a comfort food feast?

How do I perfect my Ritz Cracker Pork Chops?

How do you take your Ritz Cracker Pork Chops to the next level? What are some of the best tips and tricks that I have learned over the years?Cracker Crushing:What is the key to a good Ritz cracker coating? You want some texture! I find that putting them in ziplock bags and crushing them with a rolling pin works best.Pork Chop Prep: PorMake sure your pork chops are relatively uniform in thickness so they cook evenly. If they’re not flat, you can pound them out with a meat mallet to flatten them.Flavor Boost:Don’t be afraid to add some flavor to your Ritz cracker coating. What is a little bit of Parmesan cheese?Baking Sheet Tip: If youIs it safe to line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup?Doneness Test:How do you ensure that your pork chops are cooked properly with a meat thermometer? They should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).Crispy Factor: For extra crispy pork chops, you can broil them for the last minute or two of cooking. Just be careful not to burn them! I accidentally did this once and had to make a whole new batch.
Ingredient Swaps:If you don’t have Ritz crackers, you can use crushed saltines in a pinch. It won’t be quite the same, but it will still be tasty!

What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?

If you happen to have any leftover Ritz Cracker Pork Chops (which is rare in my house! How do I store and reheat them?Room Temperature:I wouldn’t leave them at room temperature for more than a couple of hours.Refrigerator Storage: WhatKeep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Is it true that the crust will not be as crispy as it was in the original recipe?How do I use For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap each pork chop individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Methods: The best way to reheat them is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake them for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they won’t be as crispy. I usually put a paper towel underneath to absorb some of the moisture. Avoid reheating in a pan – the crust will likely fall off.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free crackers instead of Ritz. There are some great gluten-free cracker options available these days that work perfectly in this recipe. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will still be amazing. I’ve tested this with a few different gluten-free crackers and found that the ones made from rice flour tend to work best.

Can I use bone-in pork chops?

Yes, you can definitely use bone-in pork chops. Just keep in mind that they may take a little longer to cook. Be sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure that they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). I also find that bone-in pork chops tend to be a bit juicier, so that’s a plus!

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can definitely prep the pork chops ahead of time by coating them in the Ritz cracker mixture. Then, store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. I wouldn’t recommend doing this more than a few hours in advance, as the crackers may get a little soggy. But it’s a great way to save time on a busy weeknight! I often do this in the morning before work, and then just pop them in the oven when I get home.

Can I add cheese to the cracker mixture?

Oh, you absolutely can! Grated Parmesan cheese is a fantastic addition to the Ritz cracker coating. It adds a nice salty, cheesy flavor that complements the pork perfectly. I usually add about 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the cracker mixture. You could also experiment with other cheeses like Romano or Asiago.

What if I don’t have Ritz crackers?

If you don’t have Ritz crackers on hand, you can use crushed saltines or even potato chips as a substitute. The flavor will be slightly different, but they’ll still create a crispy coating. I’ve even used crushed tortilla chips before, which gave the pork chops a fun Southwestern twist!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my all-time favorite Ritz Cracker Pork Chops recipe! This recipe is one that I always come back to. It’s easy, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for a simple and satisfying meal that the whole family will love, this is it. I promise, these pork chops will disappear in minutes! And if you’re a fan of this recipe, be sure to check out my other easy weeknight dinner ideas. I’m always experimenting with new flavors and techniques, so there’s always something new to discover. I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out. Happy cooking!

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