These Texas Roadhouse style pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! With a nice grill sear and a sprinkle of spices, they’re the perfect main dish for any meal.
Every time I make these, my family can’t get enough. They pair perfectly with mashed potatoes! And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a meal that’s both tasty and easy to whip up? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are best for flavor and moisture. If you can only find boneless, that’s okay too; just reduce the cooking time slightly.
Spices: Paprika gives a beautiful color, but you can swap it with smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. If you want to keep it simple, garlic and onion powder work alone as well.
Beef Broth: Using beef broth adds richness to your sauce. Vegetable broth or chicken broth can work as substitutes if you have them on hand.
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional! If you prefer no heat, simply skip it. For a milder spice, you could use smoked paprika instead for a gentler kick.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Searing My Pork Chops?
Searing is essential for developing that flavorful crust! Here are some steps to ensure your chops are perfectly seared:
- Make sure your pan is hot! This helps get that nice brown color quickly.
- Pat the pork chops dry to remove moisture, which assists in achieving a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give each chop enough space to cook properly.
- If your chops are browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly to allow the inside to cook without burning the outside.
Easy Texas Roadhouse Style Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for a slight kick)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Finishing Sauce:
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 10-12 minutes to cook, making the total time about 20-25 minutes. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Mix well to combine all the spices together.
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help them sear better. Rub both sides of each chop generously with the prepared spice mixture, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet or grill pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Carefully place the pork chops in the pan, leaving enough space between them. Sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
4. Let the Chops Rest:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the pan and tent them with foil to keep them warm while they rest. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them juicy and tender.
5. Make the Pan Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium. Pour the beef broth into the pan and use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. This adds fantastic flavor to your sauce! Stir in the butter until it melts, creating a rich pan sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the pork chops drizzled with the pan sauce and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme. These chops go wonderfully with sides like steamed broccoli and mashed potatoes. Dig in and enjoy your delicious Texas Roadhouse style meal!
This recipe yields juicy pork chops with a delicious crust and a savory pan sauce reminiscent of Texas Roadhouse flavors. Enjoy every bite!
FAQs about Easy Texas Roadhouse Style Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops are a great substitute! Just be mindful to reduce the cooking time by a couple of minutes, as boneless chops cook faster than bone-in chops.
How Do I Know When the Pork Chops Are Fully Cooked?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. Pork chops are safely cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Let them rest for a few minutes after cooking for juiciness!
Can I Make the Spice Mixture Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can mix the spices ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to a month. It’s a great time saver for busy weeknights!
What Should I Do with Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist, or microwave them for a quick meal.
