These Easy Texas Roadhouse Style Pork Chops are juicy and full of flavor, seasoned just right for a delightful meal. They cook up quickly, perfect for busy weeknights!
Cooking these chops always puts a smile on my face because they’re so simple to make! Serve them with rice or veggies, and you’ll feel like a superstar chef at home! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are the best for flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use boneless chops. Just keep an eye on cooking time to prevent drying them out.
Paprika: This adds a lovely smokiness and color. If you want a little more heat, you can switch it for smoked paprika or even chili powder.
Cayenne Pepper: This spice provides a kick, but it’s totally optional. You can leave it out for a milder flavor or even replace it with black pepper for a little warmth.
Olive Oil: I prefer olive oil for its flavor, but vegetable or canola oil can be used instead. They have a higher smoke point, which can be good for searing.
Butter: This enriches the flavor as you baste the chops while cooking. If you’d like a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based butter or more olive oil.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting pork chops just right can be tricky, but here’s how to succeed:
- Pat Dry: Always pat your chops with paper towels. This helps with getting a good sear.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Cooking until they reach 145°F ensures they’re juicy and safe to eat.
- Let Them Rest: Giving the chops a chance to rest after cooking is essential. It allows the juices to settle, so every bite remains tender and juicy.
- Baste While Cooking: Spoon the melted butter over the chops for extra flavor and moisture.
By following these tips, your pork chops will turn out delicious every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure! 🎉
Easy Texas Roadhouse Style Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Optional: fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at about 20 minutes from start to finish. Quick and easy for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, rosemary, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This will be the seasoning blend that gives your pork chops fantastic flavor.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Use paper towels to pat the pork chops dry. This step helps them sear better in the pan. Then, rub both sides of each chop with the seasoning mixture until they’re well coated.
3. Heat the Oil:
Pour the olive oil into a large skillet or grill pan and heat it over medium-high heat. You know it’s ready when it shimmers a bit!
4. Cook the Pork Chops:
Place the seasoned pork chops into the hot pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes without touching them. You’re looking for a nice brown color and grill marks if you’re using a grill pan.
5. Flip and Baste:
Carefully flip the pork chops over. Add the butter to the pan and let it melt. As it melts, use a spoon to baste the chops with the melted butter for extra flavor.
6. Finish Cooking:
Keep cooking for another 4-5 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C). Using a meat thermometer can help with this!
7. Rest the Chops:
Remove the chops from the pan and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This is key to keeping them juicy.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with extra thyme or fresh parsley for color and a burst of freshness. Serve with sides like steamed broccoli or mashed potatoes and enjoy your meal!
Now, dig in and savor every bite of those juicy, flavorful Texas Roadhouse style pork chops!
FAQ about Easy Texas Roadhouse Style Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops work just as well for this recipe. Just remember that they might cook a little quicker, so keep an eye on them to avoid drying them out.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, vegetable oil or canola oil are great alternatives. They have a high smoke point and will work perfectly for searing the chops.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven or a skillet to keep them from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Certainly! You can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning mix. For an extra kick, try using a spicy barbecue sauce for serving!
