Image Credit – CJ Caldwell
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the spot like Pork Chops Baked with Cabbage. This hearty and wholesome meal brings together juicy, tender pork chops paired with the naturally sweet and slightly earthy flavor of baked cabbage. It’s a dish that not only warms the soul but also nourishes the body with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Perfect for family dinners, weekend meals, or even as a special centerpiece for gatherings, this recipe proves that simple ingredients can create a flavorful and satisfying experience. Whether you’re new to cooking pork chops or looking for a creative way to include more vegetables in your meals, this dish will surely become a household favorite.
You’ll start the pork chops and cabbage separately on the stove in this recipe, then combine and bake them together for an extra flavorful finished dish in which both the cabbage and pork are cooked to perfection.
The Flavor Combination
One of the reasons why Pork Chops Baked with Cabbage works so well is the perfect harmony between the two main ingredients. Pork chops are naturally rich and savory, while cabbage becomes tender, slightly sweet, and full of flavor when baked. As the two cook together, the juices from the pork infuse into the cabbage, creating a dish that is flavorful from the very first bite. Add a few herbs, garlic, or even a splash of white wine, and you have a meal that feels gourmet without requiring complicated steps.
Nutritional Benefits
Besides its comforting taste, Pork Chops Baked with Cabbage offers excellent nutritional value. Pork is a great source of lean protein, essential for building muscle and maintaining energy. Meanwhile, cabbage is packed with vitamins C and K, fiber for digestion, and antioxidants that promote overall health. Together, this combination makes for a balanced and wholesome meal that’s both tasty and nourishing.
Pork Chops Baked with Cabbage
Prep Time: 5 mins Cook Time: 20 mins Total Time: 25 mins
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 lb pork chop(boneless)
- 3 oz pancetta(thick slices, cubed)
- 1 yellow onion(medium, halved and sliced)
- 4 cups green cabbage(thinly sliced)
- sea salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400ºF (205ºC).
- Heat the oil over medium-high heat in a large oven-proof pan. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper and add them to the pan. Brown them for three minutes on each side. Set aside.
- Reduce the heat to medium. Add the pancetta and cook until crispy, about two minutes. Add the onion and the cabbage and cook, stirring occasionally, until mostly softened for about two to three minutes.
- Place the pork chops in the cabbage mixture and bake in the oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through. Divide evenly between plates and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Pork Chops Baked with Cabbage is versatile enough to serve with various side dishes. Mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, or even a light salad can complement this meal perfectly. If you prefer a low-carb option, you can serve it just as it is, since the cabbage already acts as a hearty and filling side. A drizzle of pan juices or a squeeze of lemon before serving elevates the flavors even more.
Pork Chops Baked with Cabbage is more than just a recipe—it’s a wholesome, flavorful, and comforting dish that brings simple ingredients to life. Whether you’re preparing it for your family or hosting guests, it’s sure to leave everyone satisfied and asking for seconds. Give this recipe a try and let the rich flavors of pork and cabbage transform your dinner table into a true feast. Let us know in the comments if you’ve tried this dish or have your own twist on Pork Chops Baked with Cabbage!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Pork Chops Baked with Cabbage so delicious?
How can I keep pork chops juicy when baking with cabbage?
What side dishes go best with Pork Chops Baked with Cabbage?
Delicious Pork Chops Baked with Cabbage
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400ºF (205ºC).
- Heat the oil over medium-high heat in a large oven-proof pan. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper and add them to the pan. Brown them for three minutes on each side. Set aside.
- Reduce the heat to medium. Add the pancetta and cook until crispy, about two minutes. Add the onion and the cabbage and cook, stirring occasionally, until mostly softened for about two to three minutes.
- Place the pork chops in the cabbage mixture and bake in the oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through. Divide evenly between plates and enjoy!
