There should always be enough food for a full meal, and if pork chops are on the menu, you need some good sides to go with them. The flavors of pork chops can go in a lot of different directions, which means you have almost infinite choices for where to serve them. These 30 recipes are proof.
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Shake and bake pork chops are a classic and easy weeknight dinner The seasoned breadcrumb coating gives the pork chops a crispy, flavorful exterior. But what should you serve alongside these tasty chops? With the right side dishes, you can round out the meal and make it a delicious dinner
Here are 22 savory, satisfying sides that pair perfectly with shake and bake pork chops
Starchy Sides
These carbohydrate-rich sides are great for soaking up any juices from the pork chops. They add texture and heartiness to balance out the meal.
1. Mashed Potatoes
Buttery, smooth mashed potatoes are a no-brainer pairing for breaded pork chops. The potatoes complement the crispy coating on the chops. Serve them with a pat of butter melting on top for irresistible creaminess.
2. Baked Potatoes
Baked russet or sweet potatoes are an easy, customizable side. Top them with butter, sour cream, cheese, bacon, or green onions. The possibilities are endless!
3. Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf, studded with vegetables like peas and carrots, provides a pop of color on the plate. The fluffy pilaf soaks up the pork chop juices perfectly.
4. Pasta
What goes better with a breaded, fried pork chop than spaghetti or fettuccine? Toss the pasta with your favorite sauce, like marinara or Alfredo.
5. Scalloped Potatoes
For an indulgent, creamy potato dish, make scalloped potatoes. Thinly sliced potatoes are baked with cream, cheese, and seasonings for a rich, decadent accompaniment to the pork.
6. Potato Wedges
Crisp, oven-baked potato wedges offer a tasty contrast to the fried pork chops. Season them with salt, pepper, and paprika before roasting.
Vegetables and Salads
Balance out the meal with fresh or cooked vegetables and salads. Their bright colors and flavors offset the fried pork beautifully.
7. Roasted Vegetables
roughly chopped for Complement the chops with oven-roasted vegetables like carrots, parsnips, Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting until caramelized.
8. Greens Salad
A fresh, simple green salad is always a good idea. Top it with vinaigrette and your favorite mix-ins like nuts, fruit, cheese, or croutons. The tangy greens cut through the rich pork flavors.
9. Coleslaw
Cool, creamy coleslaw is a classic partner for breaded pork. The crispy napa cabbage and carrots add great crunch. Dress it with mayo, vinegar, and a touch of sugar.
10. Roasted Broccoli
For a quick vegetable side, roast broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes. The charred, tender broccoli adds color and nutrition.
11. Caprese Salad
Make an easy Caprese salad with sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic reduction. It’s fresh and delicious alongside the chops.
12. Green Beans
Saute green beans in butter or olive oil with garlic and toasted almonds. Their snap and nutty crunch complement the pork chops perfectly.
Savory Bread and Grains
These hearty sides add even more texture and flavor contrast. Enjoy them with the juicy pork chops for a balanced meal.
13. Cornbread
Moist, golden cornbread is an iconic Southern side for pork chops. Enjoy a square with honey butter along with the shake and bake chops.
14. Dinner Rolls
Fresh, warm yeast rolls are perfect for dipping in the pan juices from the pork chops. Brush them with butter or garlic butter if you’re feeling fancy.
15. Biscuits
Flaky, homemade buttermilk biscuits are a delicious choice. Bake up a batch, then split them open to soak up all the tasty pork flavors.
16. Stuffing or Dressing
Bread-based stuffing or dressing makes a savory, satisfying side for chop night. You can’t go wrong with classic stove-top or baked versions.
17. Mac and Cheese
Creamy, cheesy elbow macaroni is a crowd-pleasing addition next to pork chops. Make it decadent with extra cheese and toppings like bacon bits or breadcrumbs.
18. Quinoa Pilaf
For a healthy side, cook up quinoa with sauteed onions, vegetables, herbs, and broth. The quinoa offers a nice contrast to the fried pork coating.
Fun Extras
Round out the meal with these unique sides. Their flavors pair creatively with breaded pork chops.
19. Corn on the Cob
Don’t forget grilled or boiled corn on the cob! Brush it with butter and sprinkle on salt and pepper. The sweet kernels complement the pork beautifully.
20. Chili
For an unexpected pairing, serve up bowls of hearty beef or turkey chili alongside the chops. The rich, spicy chili is delicious with the crispy pork.
21. Baked Beans
Sweet, smoky baked beans – either homemade or from a can – make a fun, filling side. Their sauce complements the seasoned coating on the chops.
22. Coleslaw
Whip up a vinegar-based coleslaw with shredded cabbage and carrots for a bright, tangy side. The crunch of the veggies balances out the tender pork.
Perfectly Paired Drinks
To complete your shake and bake pork chop dinner, consider serving:
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Iced tea, lemonade, or fruit punch
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A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
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Wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc
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Beer like lagers, ales, or wheat beers
With so many tasty options, you could enjoy shake and bake pork chops multiple nights a week and never get bored! Experiment with different side dish combinations to find your favorites. Just add a veggie, some carbs, and you’ve got a fast, delicious dinner the whole family will love.
Pimiento Cheese Corn Muffins
These muffins taste like pimento cheese dip because they are full of shredded cheddar, diced pimiento peppers, garlic powder, and a lot of cayenne.
Get the Pimiento Cheese Corn Muffins recipe.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
Cheesy green bean lovers, take note: The caramelized Brussels sprouts have arrived. If you dress these sweet and sour sprouts in honey and vinegar and roast them until they are glazed and crisp, they will steal the show wherever they go.
Get the Caramelized Brussels Sprouts recipe.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
Homemade Mac & Cheese
Mac & cheese is an undisputed comfort food classic. Three things are musts for us: the recipe must be extra creamy, have a lot of cheese, and have a golden, crunchy topping. All of these conditions are met by this recipe (and more!), so you can put that box back on the shelf.
Get the Homemade Mac & Cheese recipe.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
Shake ‘n Bake Pork Chops
FAQ
What is a good side dish for pork chops?
Why are my shake and bake pork chops soggy?
Why aren t my shake and bake pork chops crispy?