Some dinners don’t need to be fancy — they just need to be comforting. This Air Fryer Cheesy Pork Chop Bake is exactly that kind of meal. Warm, hearty, and deeply satisfying, it’s the sort of dish that makes everyone slow down and actually enjoy dinner together. The kind where the table stays full a little longer and no one rushes to clear their plate.
This recipe was born out of wanting something filling without turning on the oven or washing half the kitchen afterward. The air fryer keeps the pork juicy while the cheese melts into a creamy, bubbly layer that feels like classic comfort food, just made easier.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
Pork chops can be tricky — too long and they dry out, too short and they’re undercooked. The air fryer solves that problem by cooking them evenly and locking in moisture. Adding a cheesy topping transforms simple pork chops into something cozy and indulgent without feeling heavy.
This dish also works beautifully as a one-basket meal. Everything cooks together, flavors meld, and cleanup stays minimal. That’s always a win.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need anything complicated to make this work:
- Boneless pork chops
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Heavy cream or milk
Optional additions:
- Sliced mushrooms
- Thinly sliced onions
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pat the pork chops dry thoroughly with paper towels.
- Lightly brush both sides of the pork chops with olive oil.
- Season the pork chops evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Place the pork chops in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between each one.
- Air fry the pork chops until they are lightly browned and mostly cooked through.
- While the pork cooks, combine shredded cheddar, shredded mozzarella, and heavy cream in a bowl.
- Carefully spoon the cheese mixture over each pork chop.
- Add mushrooms or onions on top if using.
- Return the basket to the air fryer and continue cooking until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Check that the pork is cooked through and tender.
- Remove the pork chops and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Kitchen Notes From My Own Cooking
Boneless pork chops work best here because they cook evenly and stay tender. If you’re using thicker chops, allow a little extra cooking time.
Letting the pork rest for a few minutes before serving helps keep it juicy. It’s tempting to dive right in, but that short rest makes a difference 🧀
This is one of those recipes that smells incredible while it cooks. It’s hard not to peek halfway through.
For more pork cooking tips, don’t miss my Ultimate Air Fryer Pork Recipes Guide.
Easy Variations to Try
For extra richness, use all cheddar or add a little cream cheese to the topping.
If you like herbs, sprinkle Italian seasoning or thyme over the cheese before melting.
For a little heat, add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.
You can also swap mushrooms for spinach or bell peppers for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Air Fryer Cheesy Pork Chop Bake pairs beautifully with simple, comforting sides:
- Mashed potatoes or air fryer potatoes
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Rice or buttered noodles
- A simple side salad
The cheesy topping also makes this great served over rice or pasta to soak up all that sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
To reheat, place the pork chops back in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. This keeps the pork tender and prevents it from drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in pork chops?
Yes, but they may need extra cooking time.
Will the cheese burn in the air fryer?
No, as long as it’s added after the pork has started cooking.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can season the pork ahead, but add the cheese just before cooking.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Very much so. The cheesy topping is usually a hit.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Cheesy Pork Chop Bake is the kind of recipe that feels like home. It’s warm, filling, and deeply comforting — the kind of dish you make when you want dinner to feel easy and satisfying without being boring. The juicy pork, creamy cheese, and simple seasonings come together in a way that feels familiar and dependable.
This is comfort food you’ll want to come back to. No fuss, no stress, just a good meal that makes everyone at the table happy.
