Prepare to fall in love with Mom’s Baked Pork Chops and Rice, an incredibly easy dinner recipe that brings together tender, perfectly cooked pork chops and wonderfully creamy white rice, all in one single baking dish. This cherished family favorite is renowned for its simplicity and deliciousness, making it a guaranteed hit even with the pickiest eaters at your table. Say goodbye to complicated multi-pot meals and hello to effortless, comforting cuisine!

The Ultimate Easy Recipe for Baked Pork Chops and Rice

If you’re searching for a hearty, satisfying, and incredibly simple meal, look no further than our time-tested recipe for baked pork chops and rice. This isn’t just *a* favorite; it’s hands down one of our all-time top recipes, a true culinary gem passed down through generations. It artfully blends the best elements of both Mom’s and Grandma’s traditional pork chop recipes, resulting in a dish that is unbelievably good – seriously, it’s addictively delicious!

This effortless dinner eliminates the need for multiple pots and pans, as everything cooks beautifully together in a single baking dish. The result is perfectly tender, moist pork chops nestled atop a bed of rich, creamy rice, infused with savory flavors. It’s the kind of comforting meal that warms you from the inside out, making it ideal for chilly evenings or simply when you crave something truly satisfying. Its straightforward preparation makes it a blessing for busy weeknights when time is precious but quality food is a must. If you appreciate easy, fuss-free cooking as much as we do, you’ll quickly find this simple pork chop and rice bake indispensable in your meal rotation. It shares the same comforting, wholesome spirit as my grandma’s chicken and rice recipe, only this time, succulent pork takes center stage instead of chicken.

While we certainly enjoy a variety of pork chop preparations, including crispy baked breaded pork chops, smoky juicy grilled pork chops, and convenient air fryer pork chops, along with flavorful ranch pork chops and potatoes, there’s something uniquely special about this pork chop and rice bake. It absolutely embodies the essence of classic comfort food, delivering a heartwarming experience with every forkful.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Pork and Rice Dish

• Effortless Preparation: This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort. Simply combine ingredients in a baking dish, and let your oven do the rest.
• One-Pan Wonder: All components — meat, rice, and sauce — cook together in a single dish, significantly cutting down on cleanup time. Perfect for busy weeknights!
• Family Favorite: A proven crowd-pleaser that appeals to all ages, even those notoriously picky eaters. The creamy rice and tender pork create an irresistible combination.
• Incredible Flavor: The combination of savory cream soups, aromatic spices, and butter creates a rich, deeply satisfying sauce that infuses both the pork and the rice.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable to your family’s preferences with various cream soup options, added vegetables, or a sprinkle of cheese.
• Hearty & Wholesome: A complete meal in itself, offering a good balance of protein and carbohydrates, making it a fulfilling dinner.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Baked Pork Chops and Rice

Creating this delicious baked pork chops and rice dish requires just a few simple, wholesome ingredients. You’ll likely find most, if not all, of them already stocked in your pantry or easily available at any local grocery store. For the precise measurements and quantities, please refer to the detailed printable recipe card provided further below.

• Pork Chops: For the most succulent and flavorful results, we highly recommend using bone-in pork chops that are approximately 1 inch thick. The bone helps to insulate the meat, keeping it moist and adding depth to the flavor as it bakes. While boneless chops can be used, bone-in tends to withstand the longer baking time better without drying out.
• Jasmine Rice: This aromatic long-grain white rice is our top choice for its delicate fragrance and fluffy texture. However, any good quality long-grain white rice will work beautifully in this recipe, absorbing the creamy sauce perfectly. Remember to rinse your rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch, which helps prevent it from becoming too sticky.
• Butter: A key ingredient for achieving that rich, indulgent flavor and creamy texture. Using real butter makes a noticeable difference in the overall taste of the dish.
• Cream of Celery Soup: This forms the base of our incredibly creamy sauce, contributing a subtle savory and aromatic depth.
• Cream of Onion Soup: Another foundational cream soup that adds a robust, savory onion flavor without needing to chop fresh onions. This pairs wonderfully with the celery soup for a balanced, rich sauce. Alternatively, cream of mushroom soup is an excellent substitute if you prefer.
• Seasonings: A carefully selected blend of spices elevates the natural flavor of the pork and rice. Our go-to combination includes:
  • Garlic Powder: For an earthy, pungent kick.
  • Onion Powder: Enhances the savory notes.
  • Black Pepper: A classic seasoning that adds a touch of warmth.
  • Smoked Paprika: Provides a beautiful color and a subtle smoky depth that complements pork perfectly.
  • Dried Parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of color, especially when sprinkled on top before serving.
• Water: Essential for cooking the rice and creating the liquid base for the sauce. For an extra layer of savory flavor, consider substituting chicken broth.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Baked Pork Chops and Rice

This one-pan baked pork chops and rice recipe is incredibly straightforward, designed for convenience without sacrificing flavor. Follow these simple steps for a truly delicious meal:

1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, lightly spray a large baking dish or casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Season the Pork Chops: Pat your pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings adhere better and ensures a nicer sear if you were browning them (though not required for this recipe). Generously season both sides of the pork chops with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasonings; they are crucial for flavor.
3. Prepare the Rice: Rinse your jasmine rice (or other long-grain white rice) thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear. This step is important for removing excess starch, which helps the rice cook up fluffy and prevents it from becoming gummy. Drain the rice well and add the rinsed cup of rice directly into your prepared baking dish.
4. Melt the Butter: Melt the stick of butter in the microwave. It should be fully liquid for easy mixing.
5. Combine Rice Mixture: To the rice in the baking dish, add about half of the melted butter, the specified amount of water or chicken broth, and both cans of cream of celery and cream of onion soups. Using a spoon or whisk, mix all these ingredients together thoroughly until they are well combined and the rice is evenly coated. Smooth the rice mixture evenly over the bottom of the baking dish to create a level base for the pork chops. While you can mix this in a separate bowl and then transfer it, doing it directly in the baking dish saves you an extra dirty bowl!




6. Arrange Pork Chops: Carefully place the seasoned pork chops on top of the rice mixture in a single layer. Ensure that the rice underneath is still submerged in the liquid mixture, as this is essential for it to cook properly. You may need to gently push some rice from the sides up around the chops to ensure even liquid distribution.
7. Final Touches: Drizzle the remaining melted butter evenly over the pork chops. If you choose to add dried parsley flakes for extra flavor and visual appeal, sprinkle them over the chops at this stage. This step is optional but highly recommended.
8. Cover and Bake: Once all ingredients are in the dish, cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This is a crucial step! The foil traps steam, creating a moist environment that allows both the pork chops to tenderize and the rice to cook perfectly. Do not worry about cooking raw pork chops and raw rice together; this method is perfectly safe and ensures everything finishes at the same time.

Baking Perfection: Achieving the Ideal Cooking Time

Getting both the pork chops and rice perfectly cooked simultaneously is the secret to this delightful one-pan meal. Here’s how to ensure everything is done just right:

• Initial Covered Bake: Place the tightly covered baking dish into your preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Allow it to cook for a full 30 minutes. Keeping the dish covered during this initial phase is critical. The foil traps steam, which not only helps to cook the rice thoroughly but also keeps the pork chops incredibly moist and tender. This steamy environment ensures the rice absorbs the liquid effectively.
• Uncovered Finish: After the initial 30 minutes, carefully remove the aluminum foil from the baking dish. Be extremely cautious when lifting the foil, as a significant amount of hot steam will escape. Always use oven mitts to protect your hands. This uncovered baking phase allows the top of the pork chops to brown slightly and develop a beautiful golden crust, while the rice continues to absorb any remaining liquid and thicken to a creamy consistency.
• Final Bake and Doneness: Return the uncovered dish to the oven and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes. This brings the total baking time to 1 hour. It’s important to remember that all ovens can vary slightly in temperature and cooking efficiency. Therefore, always verify the doneness of your pork chops and rice. Use a meat thermometer or an instant-read thermometer to check that the pork chops have reached a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Simultaneously, ensure the rice is fully cooked through and tender. If your pork chops haven’t reached the target temperature or the rice still feels a bit firm, you may need to add a little more baking time, checking every 5-10 minutes.

Once these wonderfully easy baked pork chops are fully cooked and the rice is tender, remove the casserole dish from the oven. Resist the urge to dive in immediately! Allow the dish to rest at room temperature for about 5 minutes. This brief resting period is vital; it gives the rice a chance to absorb any remaining liquid, making it even creamier and ensuring the pork chops retain their juices for maximum tenderness.

And there you have it! A truly satisfying meal featuring perfectly cooked, delicious pork chops and incredibly creamy, flavorful rice. It’s the quintessential comfort food meal, ready to be enjoyed by your whole family!

Serving Suggestions: What to Serve with Pork Chops and Rice

Since your main course already features flavorful pork and a creamy rice base, the ideal accompaniments are fresh, vibrant vegetables to add balance, color, and essential nutrients to your meal. Here are some fantastic options to complement your baked pork chops and rice:

• Steamed Broccoli: A classic pairing! Steamed broccoli offers a pleasant crunch and a healthy dose of green. We love how quickly you can make steamed broccoli in the microwave, or for a crispier texture, try air fryer broccoli.
• Green Beans: Whether fresh, frozen, or canned, green beans are a simple and delicious addition. A quick and easy option is microwave green beans. Sautéed with a little garlic, they add wonderful flavor.
• Frozen Peas: For a burst of sweetness and color, a side of simple frozen peas, quickly blanched, is always a good choice.
• Asparagus: Roasted or steamed asparagus spears add an elegant touch and delicate flavor.
• Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the creamy dish, offering a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet and tender roasted carrots provide both flavor and a lovely bright orange color to your plate.

Choose your favorite green veggie, and you’ll have a complete, balanced, and utterly satisfying meal that comes together with minimal fuss!

Delicious Variations to Customize Your Pork and Rice Bake

One of the best things about this pork and rice dish is its versatility! It’s incredibly easy to customize it to your family’s specific tastes or to simply use what you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make it your own:

• Cream Soup Swaps: The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptable creamy base. While our recipe calls for cream of celery and cream of onion soup, feel free to use your preferred creamed soups. Cream of mushroom soup and cream of chicken soup are both excellent and popular alternatives that blend seamlessly into the dish, adding their unique flavor profiles. You can even mix and match to find your favorite combination!
• Flavor Boosters: If you’re looking to simplify the seasoning process, or simply love the flavor, you can skip the individual garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper, and instead add a packet of dry onion soup mix to the rice mixture. This will infuse the dish with a wonderfully savory and aromatic onion flavor.
• Cheesy Goodness: For those who, like my son, believe that cheese makes everything better, adding a generous sprinkle of your favorite shredded cheese is a fantastic idea. During the last 10-15 minutes of baking time (when the foil is off), top the casserole with cheese and let it melt into a gooey, golden layer. Cheddar cheese is always a go-to for its sharp, comforting flavor, but Monterey Jack or a blend of Mexican cheeses would also be delicious.
• Add Vegetables: Boost the nutritional value and texture by stirring in some vegetables with the rice mixture. Frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) or diced bell peppers and mushrooms would be excellent choices. Make sure to chop fresh vegetables into small pieces so they cook through properly.
• Herbacious Twist: Beyond dried parsley, consider other dried or fresh herbs. A sprinkle of dried thyme, sage, or rosemary can add another layer of aromatic complexity to the dish. Add them along with the other seasonings.
• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce stirred into the rice mixture can add a delightful spicy element.

These variations allow you to keep the core comfort of the recipe while catering to different preferences, ensuring this one-pan meal remains a versatile favorite!

Expert Cooking Tips for Best Results

Achieving the perfect baked pork chops and rice is simple, but a few key tips can elevate your dish from good to exceptional:

• Choose the Right Pork Chops: For this particular recipe, thick, bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick) are your best choice. The bone helps to insulate the meat, keeping it moist and tender during the longer cooking time required for the rice. Boneless pork chops, especially thinner ones, tend to cook much faster than the rice and are prone to drying out. If you absolutely must use boneless chops, opt for thicker cuts and consider reducing the initial covered baking time slightly, then checking for doneness frequently.
• Select the Correct Rice: Stick with long-grain white rice, such as jasmine, basmati, or conventional long-grain white rice. It’s crucial to use uncooked rice for this recipe. Instant rice (Minute Rice) or pre-cooked rice varieties will not work as they require different liquid ratios and cooking times, leading to a mushy or undercooked result. Brown rice also requires a significantly longer cooking time and more liquid, making it unsuitable for this specific recipe’s timing. Always remember to rinse your rice thoroughly before adding it to the baking dish to remove excess starch, which helps prevent a gummy texture.
• Ensure Rice is Submerged: After placing the pork chops, double-check that the rice mixture is fully submerged in the liquid. If parts of the rice are exposed, they won’t cook evenly and might end up crunchy. Gently nudge the pork chops and redistribute the rice if necessary to ensure it’s all bathed in the creamy sauce.
• Cover Tightly: The aluminum foil cover is not optional for the first baking phase. It creates a steamy environment that cooks the rice and keeps the pork chops from drying out. Ensure it’s sealed tightly around the edges of your baking dish.
• Don’t Rush the Rest: The 5-minute resting period after baking is important. It allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid, making it creamier, and gives the pork chops a chance to reabsorb their juices, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the creamy sauce mixture before adding the pork chops. While the cream soups provide some saltiness, you might want to add a pinch of salt to the rice mixture, to taste, especially if using unsalted broth or butter. You can always add more salt at the table, but you can’t take it away!
• Baking Dish Size: Use a large enough baking dish (e.g., 9×13 inch) to comfortably hold all the ingredients in a single layer without overcrowding, ensuring even cooking.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

This baked pork chops and rice dish makes fantastic leftovers, often tasting even better the next day as the flavors meld further. Here’s how to properly store and reheat your delicious meal:

• Refrigeration: Allow any leftover pork chops and rice to cool completely to room temperature within two hours of cooking. Once cooled, transfer the dish to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. This is perfect for meal prepping a few lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Freezing for Longer Storage: For longer storage, this dish freezes surprisingly well. Place cooled leftovers into a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to press out any excess air if using bags to prevent freezer burn. The dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Microwave Reheating (Individual Portions): The microwave is the quickest and easiest way to reheat individual portions. Place a serving of pork and rice on a microwave-safe plate. Add a tablespoon or two of water or chicken broth over the rice to help keep it moist. Cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Stir the rice gently halfway through for even heating.
• Oven Reheating (Larger Portions/Whole Dish): If you’re reheating a larger portion or most of the dish, the oven is an excellent choice for maintaining texture, though it takes a bit longer. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). For the best results, especially with bone-in chops, it’s often helpful to remove the pork from the bone before reheating to ensure more even warmth. Place the pork and rice in an oven-safe dish, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-30 minutes, or until thoroughly heated, depending on the amount you’re reheating. Check periodically and add more liquid if the rice seems to be drying out.

With proper storage and reheating, you can enjoy the comforting flavors of Mom’s Baked Pork Chops and Rice for days to come!

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Pork Chops and Rice

Can I use boneless pork chops?

While bone-in pork chops are recommended for their ability to stay moist during the longer baking time required for the rice, you can use boneless pork chops. If you do, choose thicker boneless cuts (at least 1 inch thick) to minimize drying out. You might also want to check the internal temperature a bit earlier to ensure they don’t overcook.

Do I have to rinse the rice?

Yes, rinsing the rice is an important step! It removes excess starch, which helps the rice cook up fluffy and prevents it from becoming gummy or overly sticky in the casserole. Don’t skip this step for the best texture.

Can I use chicken broth instead of water?

Absolutely! Using chicken broth instead of water is a fantastic way to add an extra layer of savory flavor to the rice and the overall dish. It will make the rice even richer and more delicious.

What if my rice isn’t cooked after 1 hour?

Oven temperatures can vary. If your rice is still a bit firm, cover the dish tightly with foil again and return it to the oven for another 10-15 minutes. Check every 5 minutes until the rice is tender. You can also add a small splash of hot water or broth if the mixture seems too dry.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can! Frozen mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, and corn) can be stirred into the rice mixture before baking. If using fresh vegetables like diced bell peppers or mushrooms, make sure they are cut into small pieces so they cook through in the given time.

How do I know the pork chops are done?

The safest way to determine if pork chops are done is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chop, avoiding the bone. Pork chops are safely cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). There might be a slight pink hue, which is normal for properly cooked pork.

Pin Recipe
Print Recipe

4.91 from 10 votes

Baked Pork Chops and Rice

By:

Dee

Mom’s recipe for Baked Pork Chops and Rice is an easy dinner recipe made with tender pork chops and creamy white rice cooked together in one baking dish. This easy recipe is a family favorite that even picky eaters love!

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cook Time:

1 hour

Resting time:

5 minutes

Total Time:

1 hour 15 minutes

Servings:
6

Ingredients

• 4-6 bone in pork chops
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tsp dried parsley flakes optional
• 1 stick butter melted
• 1 ½ cups jasmine rice or any long grain white rice, rinsed
• 1 10-oz can cream of celery soup
• 1 10-oz can cream of onion soup or use cream of mushroom
• 1 cup water or chicken broth

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350℉ (175°C) and grease a large baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. Season pork chops on both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and pepper.
3. Rinse rice well under cold water and place it in the baking dish.
4. Add cream soups, half of the melted butter, and water (or broth) to the rice. Mix together thoroughly. Smooth the rice evenly over the bottom of the baking dish.
5. Place pork chops over the rice mixture in a single layer, ensuring rice is submerged. Drizzle remaining melted butter over the pork chops.
6. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes, or until pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the rice is fully cooked.
7. Remove from oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your tender pork chops and creamy rice!

Video

Notes

Thick bone-in chops about 1 inch thick work best for tenderness and moisture. Boneless chops tend to cook faster and may dry out.

Feel free to use low-fat, reduced-sodium, or “healthy request” versions of cream soup if desired. Cream of chicken or cream of mushroom are excellent alternatives to cream of onion.

Use jasmine or any long-grain white rice, uncooked. Do not use Minute Rice or pre-cooked rice, as they require different cooking times and liquid ratios. Brown rice is also not recommended for this recipe.

The rice will continue to absorb liquid as it rests after baking, resulting in an even creamier texture.

Add extra salt to taste, if desired, after the dish is cooked.

Nutrition

Calories: 459kcal,
Carbohydrates: 25g,
Protein: 31g,
Fat: 25g,
Saturated Fat: 13g,
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g,
Monounsaturated Fat: 8g,
Trans Fat: 1g,
Cholesterol: 130mg,
Sodium: 204mg,
Potassium: 554mg,
Fiber: 1g,
Sugar: 1g,
Vitamin A: 559IU,
Vitamin C: 1mg,
Calcium: 26mg,
Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Course:
Main

Cuisine:
American

We truly hope you enjoy Mom’s Easy Baked Pork Chops and Rice as much as we do! If you prepare this delightful dish, we’d be absolutely thrilled if you could take a moment to leave a star rating and a review below. Your feedback helps us share these wonderful family recipes with even more home cooks!

For more incredibly easy rice casserole recipes, original meal ideas, and comforting family favorites, make sure to subscribe to our newsletter. You’ll receive all our latest recipes and cooking tips straight to your inbox. Don’t forget to follow us on all your favorite social media platforms to stay connected and inspired!

Recipe originally published in 2022 and updated with enhanced details and optimizations in 2024.