Craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices or hassle? Then look no further! This Porterhouse pork chop recipe is your ticket to a juicy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy weeknight dinner. It's perfect for busy cooks looking for healthy meals and delicious dishes that impress. This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, making it ideal for both beginner and experienced cooks alike. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking to a whole new level!
Ingredients:
- 2 (1-inch thick) bone-in pork porterhouse chops
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps achieve a beautiful sear. Season generously on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops
Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until a nice golden-brown crust forms. This step builds incredible flavor and texture.
Step 3: Roast to Perfection
Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Add the butter, rosemary, and thyme to the skillet. Baste the pork chops with the melted butter and herbs. Roast for 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium. Use a meat thermometer for accurate results; this is key to ensuring perfectly cooked pork chops every time.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork chops rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Sear the pork chops in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to guarantee perfectly cooked pork chops every time.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your pork chops.
- Experiment with herbs and spices: Feel free to customize the seasoning blend to your liking.
Variations:
- Apple Cider Glaze: During the last 5 minutes of roasting, brush the pork chops with a mixture of apple cider and maple syrup for a sweet and savory glaze.
- Garlic Herb Butter: Instead of plain butter, use a compound butter infused with garlic, herbs, and lemon zest.
- Mushroom Sauce: Sauté sliced mushrooms in the pan after removing the pork chops and deglaze with a little wine or broth for a rich and flavorful sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
This Porterhouse pork chop recipe offers a quick dinner solution perfect for those busy weeknights. It's a simple recipe with impressive results—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Enjoy the deliciousness of a restaurant-worthy meal created entirely in the comfort of your own kitchen. Happy cooking!