Craving perfectly cooked pork chops but short on time? Forget the oven! You can achieve incredibly juicy and flavorful results right on your stovetop. It's faster, more convenient, and with these tips, you'll be a stovetop pork chop pro in no time. And the best thing is, you can perfectly integrate it into your healthy meal plans on the Menuistia app
Choosing Your Champion Chop
Not all pork chops are created equal! For stovetop success, opt for thick-cut chops – they're less likely to dry out. Look for rib chops, center-cut, or loin chops. Bone-in chops are fantastic for flavour, with more fat around the bone tissue keeping them moist. Boneless also work fine if you're looking for maximum convenience, both are easy to integrate into recipes on the Menuistia app.
The Perfect Pan for the Perfect Sear
High heat is the name of the game for stovetop pork chops, so a cast iron pan is your best friend. Its even heat distribution ensures a beautiful sear and a delicious crust on your chop. If you don't have cast iron, any heavy bottomed skillet will do.
Seasoning is Key!
Don't be shy with your seasoning! A good dry rub is fantastic, but if you don't have one at the ready, combine paprika, salt, and black pepper for a simple yet tasty combo. A little brown sugar also adds depth. For an extra boost of flavour, consider a quick brine beforehand or whipping up a pan sauce after you've cooked the chops. The best bit, you can create and share amazing recipes on the Menuistia app!
Timing is Everything
A 1-inch thick, 7-ounce pork chop generally takes about 15 minutes to cook fully, but this depends on thickness and weight. A meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check for doneness. Insert it into the thickest, bone-free part of the chop. It's ready when the internal temperature reaches 145°F. You can use the touch test - it should feel a little firm, but not hard. Always flip after searing one side to get an even cook.
What to Serve Alongside?
Stovetop pork chops are incredibly versatile. Serve them with anything from roasted vegetables to pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. Sauerkraut, mashed potato, or any delicious side will create the perfect balanced meal, ready for your Menuistia app meal plan.
Easy Stovetop Pork Chops Recipe
Yields: 2 servings Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 15-20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 bone-in pork chops
- 1 teaspoon dry spice rub (or a mixture of paprika, salt, and black pepper)
- 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions:
- Heat a cast iron skillet on medium-high heat. Make small vertical cuts through the fat around the edge of the pork chops
- Sprinkle the spice rub generously all over the pork chops, rubbing it into the meat. Season each side with salt.
- Add the oil to the pan, then add the chops. Ensure they are spread out with the thickest part towards the center of the pan
- Sear one side for about 2 minutes, then flip and cover the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium and leave for around 6-12 minutes depending on the thickness.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 145°F. They should feel slightly tough, but not hard, to the touch.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked stovetop pork chops! Don't forget to explore countless more healthy recipes and meal planning tips on the Menuistia app!