Pork Chops with Cheesy Polenta and Roasted Basil Tomatoes

Indulge in a culinary delight with Pork Chops, Cheesy Polenta, and Roasted Basil Tomatoes—a symphony of flavors that will ignite your taste buds! Picture succulent boneless pork chops, seared to perfection, resting atop a bed of creamy polenta infused with ricotta, mozzarella, and fresh parsley. Meanwhile, juicy cherry tomatoes roast to perfection, mingling with garlic and basil for a burst of freshness. Each bite is a harmonious blend of savory and sweet, elevating your dining experience to new heights. With just a dash of prep, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet masterpiece, perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring solo.

Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 20 min

Ingredients:

  • 1 package quick cooking polenta (check ingredients needed)
  • 1 quart vegetable broth
  • 4 boneless pork chops, about ½” thick
  • ¼ cup parsley, chopped
  • ½ pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup basil, cut into ribbon, for serving
  • ½ cup ricotta cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 425 F.

Cook polenta according to package instructions using vegetable broth for liquid. 

While polenta is cooking, place cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper and garlic. Place in the oven and roast for 13-15 minutes until tomatoes are slightly blistered. Sprinkle with basil when you pull from the oven. 

In a large saute pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season pork chops with salt and pepper. Cook 3-5 minutes per side or until desired doneness is reached and outside is golden brown. 

When polenta is fully cooked, mix in ricotta, parsley and mozzarella cheese.

Serve by placing polenta on a plate, top with pork chops and then with roasted tomatoes and fresh basil. 

Other Ways To Prepare This Meal:

Plant-based: Swap pork chops for tempeh. Use non-dairy options in polenta.

Kid-friendly: Serve all the parts separately and add in their favorite dipping sauce for the pork.

Add spice: Add sliced hot cherry peppers in with the pork chops.

Quick Prep: Use leftover polenta.