Dinners · 4 min read
Cheesy Sour Cream Baked Pork Chops
Tender pork chops baked with sour cream and melted cheese for an easy low carb dinner that stays juicy and full of flavor.
★ 5.0 (3)
These cheesy sour cream baked pork chops are the kind of dinner you'll turn to on busy nights when you want something comforting without a lot of fuss. The sour cream keeps the meat moist while it bakes, and the cheddar melts into a golden, bubbly topping that adds a sharp, nutty finish. It's a low carb, keto friendly meal that comes together with just a few pantry staples, and the whole thing is ready in about half an hour.
Why You’ll Love This Low Carb Pork Chop Recipe
- Only four ingredients, and you can swap the cheese or seasoning based on what's in your fridge.
- The sour cream does double duty: it keeps the pork moist and creates a tangy sauce that soaks into the meat.
- It's a keto friendly dinner that fits into a low carb lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.
Key Ingredients for Cheesy Pork Chops
- Pork chops: Bone-in chops are recommended because they stay juicier and have more flavor. If you use boneless, reduce the baking time by a few minutes. Look for chops that are about 1 inch thick for even cooking.
- Sour cream: This creates the creamy base that keeps the meat moist. Full fat sour cream works best, but light sour cream will also do. You can substitute plain Greek yogurt in a pinch, though the tang will be a bit sharper.
- Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nutty, savory note. Swiss or Colby are good swaps. Shred your own cheese for better melting, since pre-shredded bags often have anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
Kitchen Tools for Making Baked Pork Chops
- 9x13-inch baking dish or a rimmed baking sheet for even heat distribution
- Instant read thermometer to check for 145°F doneness
- Measuring spoons for the sour cream and seasoning
Tips for Making the Best Baked Pork Chops
- Use bone-in pork chops if you can. They stay juicier than boneless and are often cheaper. If you only have boneless, reduce the baking time by a few minutes so they don't dry out.
- Spread the sour cream evenly over each chop, right to the edges. This keeps the meat from drying out and creates a creamy layer that bakes into the cheese.
- Don't skip the seasoned salt. It adds a savory depth that plain salt and pepper won't give you. If you're using regular salt, go a little lighter and add pepper to taste.
- Check the pork at 20 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 145°F. If it's not there, give it a few more minutes, but don't overbake or the chops will toughen.
Pro Tips for Juicy Sour Cream Pork Chops
- For a golden, bubbly cheese topping, switch the oven to broil for the last 1 to 2 minutes. Keep an eye on it, because cheese can go from golden to burnt quickly.
- If your pork chops are thicker than 1 inch, plan on 5 to 7 extra minutes in the oven. Use an instant read thermometer to hit 145°F.
- Let the pork rest for 5 minutes after baking. This lets the juices settle back into the meat, so each bite stays moist.
Variations for Creamy Pork Chops
- Swap the cheddar for Swiss or Colby. Both melt well and bring a different nutty or mild flavor.
- Stir a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a pinch of smoked paprika into the sour cream before spreading it on the pork. It adds a subtle kick.
- For a dairy free version, use a plant based sour cream and your favorite dairy free cheese shreds. The texture will be a little different, but it still bakes up creamy.
- If you're using boneless pork chops, reduce the baking time to 18 to 20 minutes. They cook faster than bone-in chops.
What to Serve with Cheesy Sour Cream Baked Pork Chops
Toppings for Cheesy Pork Chops
- Chopped fresh parsley for a bright finish
- A few cracks of black pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
- A drizzle of hot sauce if you like a little kick
Side Dishes to Serve with Baked Pork Chops
- Roasted broccoli or green beans, since they hold up well to the creamy sauce
- Cauliflower mash for a low carb alternative to potatoes
- A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness
How to Store Leftover Cheesy Sour Cream Baked Pork Chops
Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sour cream and cheese will thicken as they cool, but they'll reheat well. Keep them separate from other foods so the flavors don't mingle.
How to Freeze Leftover Pork Chops
You can freeze these pork chops after they've been baked and cooled. Place them in a single layer in a freezer safe container, or wrap each chop individually in plastic wrap and then foil. They'll keep for up to 3 months. To thaw, move them to the fridge overnight. The texture will be a little softer after freezing, but the flavor stays.
Reheating Your Cheesy Pork Chops
The best way to reheat these pork chops is in the oven. Preheat to 350°F, place the chops in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for 10 to 15 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps keep the sour cream and cheese from drying out. You can also use the microwave for a quick option, but the cheese may get rubbery.
Source recipe: Cheesy Sour Cream Baked Pork Chops (SnapChef ID 10a3afa5-cee7-457c-acbf-56c6b2464efd). Nutrition is estimated per serving.
Ingredients
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Place pork chops on a baking sheet or into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Season with seasoned salt or salt and pepper.
- Add 2 tablespoons of sour cream to each pork chop. Spread evenly over pork chop to over the meat.
- Add a small sprinkle of cheese to the pork chop.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes.
Tap a step number to check it off as you cook.
Nutrition Facts per serving · estimated
Amount per serving
% Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet (FDA).
Good to know
Questions, answered
Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops. They cook faster, so reduce the baking time to 18 to 20 minutes. Check the internal temperature at 18 minutes and pull them out when it hits 145°F. Boneless chops are leaner, so be careful not to overbake them or they'll dry out.
Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream?
Plain Greek yogurt works as a substitute for sour cream in this recipe. It has a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture, though it's a bit thicker. Use the same amount. The yogurt will also keep the pork moist, but the final sauce may be slightly less rich.
How do I know when the pork chops are fully cooked?
The safest way is to use an instant read thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chop, avoiding the bone. The pork is done when it reaches 145°F. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. If you don't have a thermometer, cut into the center and check that the meat is no longer pink and the juices run clear.
Can I prepare these pork chops ahead of time?
You can assemble the pork chops with the sour cream and cheese a few hours ahead, then refrigerate them until you're ready to bake. Add about 5 minutes to the baking time if they go into the oven cold. This is a good option for meal prep or when you want to get dinner started early.
What can I use instead of seasoned salt?
If you don't have seasoned salt, mix 1/2 teaspoon salt with 1/4 teaspoon black pepper and a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder. You can also use a store bought all purpose seasoning blend. Just be mindful of the salt level, since some blends are saltier than others.
