Texas Roadhouse is a popular restaurant known for its hearty, down-home cooking, and one dish that stands out is their famous pork chops. Growing up, weekend dinners were a special occasion, and nothing says “special” like a well-seasoned, perfectly cooked pork chop.
Texas Roadhouse Pork Chops Recipe are not just a meal; they are a celebration of flavor and comfort. Today, we’re diving into the secrets behind this dish, so you can recreate that mouthwatering experience in your own kitchen. It means you can enjoy that same restaurant-quality taste anytime you want.
What Kind of Pork Chops to Use
When making this Texas Roadhouse Pork Chops recipe, the type of pork chops you choose can make a big difference in the final dish. For the best results, I recommend using center-cut boneless pork chops that are about ¾ inch thick. These chops have a great balance of meat and fat, making them ideal for quick cooking while still staying juicy and tender.
Why Center-Cut Boneless Pork Chops Are Best
- Even Cooking: Because they are evenly thick, center-cut boneless pork chops cook uniformly, reducing the risk of overcooking or drying out.
- Quick Cooking: At ¾ inch thick, these chops cook quickly, making them perfect for a fast yet flavorful dinner.
- Perfect Glaze: The brown sugar glaze used in this recipe caramelizes beautifully on boneless chops, giving you that signature sweet and savory crust without the risk of burning.
Why I Love Pork Chops with Peppercorn Sauce
I love pork chops with peppercorn sauce because the combination is simply irresistible. The sweet, juicy pork chops pair perfectly with the rich, creamy peppercorn sauce, creating a balance of flavors that’s both comforting and indulgent. This sauce adds a touch of sophistication, transforming a simple meal into a restaurant-quality experience right at home.
How to Make Texas Roadhouse Pork Chops
Bringing the taste of Texas Roadhouse to your kitchen is easier than you might think. Follow this step-by-step guide to recreate their delicious pork chops at home.
Ingredients Needed
- 4 thick cut pork chops
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 Tbsp. brown sugar
- Olive oil
- Optional: 2 tablespoons peppercorns Sauce
Kitchen Tools
- Oven-safe skillet
- Bowl
- Tongs or spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions to Perfect Pork Chops
Step 1 : Combine Spices:
In a bowl, combine spices (paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
Step 2 :Rub Pork Chops:
Rub the pork chops in the spices.
Step 3 : Sear Pork Chops & Bake:
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium/high heat. When the oil is hot, add the pork chops. Cook for about 3-5 minutes on each side or until they are browned. Once they are browned, add a tablespoon of brown sugar to each pork chop. Turn each pork chop over, so both sides get some melted brown sugar. (Don’t add the brown sugar too early or else the sugar will burn and smoke up the room.) Bake at 350˚F/175˚C for 15 minutes, to make sure the pork chops are cooked through.
Step 4 : Serve Pork Chops:
Before serving, pour the glaze that’s formed in the pan over the chops. Pour sauce over chops (Optional). Serve with your vegetables of choice.
Recipe Tips
- Choose the Right Chops: Always go for thick cut pork chops for this recipe. Thinner chops can dry out during the cooking process.
- Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing the pork chops before baking is essential. It helps develop flavor and ensures the chops stay moist.
- Timing is Everything: Be mindful of when you add the brown sugar. Adding it too early can result in burnt sugar and a smoky kitchen.
- Use an Oven-Safe Skillet: To make the transition from stove to oven seamless, use a skillet that can handle both. Cast iron works wonderfully for this recipe.
Perfect Side Dishes to Complement The Pork Chops
These pork chops are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side that complements the rich flavors of the pork chops.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes adds a healthy and colorful touch to the plate.
- Green Beans: Simple steamed or sautéed green beans provide a nice, crisp contrast to the tender pork chops.
- Cornbread: For a true Southern experience, serve these chops with a slice of warm cornbread.
- Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the dish and provide a refreshing contrast.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prep the Spice Rub: You can mix the spices and rub the pork chops up to a day in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
- Pre-Season the Pork Chops: You can rub the pork chops with the spice blend a few hours before cooking. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to sear and bake.
- Prepare the Sauce: If you’re making peppercorn sauce, it can be made ahead of time and reheated just before serving.
Leftover and Storage Tips
- Storing Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store the pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay good for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the pork chops in a skillet with a little bit of water or broth. Cover and heat over low heat until warmed through. This method helps prevent them from drying out.
- Freezing: These pork chops can also be frozen. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?
No worries! You can sear the pork chops in a regular skillet, then transfer them to a baking dish before putting them in the oven.
Can I make this recipe on the grill?
Yes! You can grill the pork chops instead of searing them in a skillet. Just be sure to monitor the heat and cook until they reach the proper internal temperature.
Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar?
Brown sugar is recommended because it adds a deeper, caramel-like flavor. White sugar can be used in a pinch, but the flavor will be less rich.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
If you love spice, feel free to increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the spice rub.
Texas Roadhouse Pork Chops Recipe
Savor the perfect balance of spice and sweetness with this Texas Roadhouse-inspired pork chops recipe, featuring a quick sear and a rich brown sugar glaze."
Ingredients
- 4 thick cut pork chops
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 Tbsp. brown sugar
- Olive oil
- Optional: 2 tablespoons peppercorns Sauce
Instructions
- Combine Spices: In a bowl, combine spices (paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt).
- Rub Pork Chops: Rub the pork chops in the spices.
- Sear Pork Chops & Bake: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium/high heat. When the oil is hot, add the pork chops. Cook for about 3-5 minutes on each side or until they are browned. Once they are browned, add a tablespoon of brown sugar to each pork chop. Turn each pork chop over, so both sides get some melted brown sugar. (Don’t add the brown sugar too early or else the sugar will burn and smoke up the room.) Bake at 350˚F/175˚C for 15 minutes, to make sure the pork chops are cooked through.
- Serve Pork Chops: Before serving, pour the glaze that’s formed in the pan over the chops. Pour sauce over chops (Optional). Serve with your vegetables of choice.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size: 4Amount Per Serving: Calories: 320Total Fat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 4gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 450mgCarbohydrates: 15gFiber: 0.5gSugar: 12gProtein: 28g
The nutrition information provided below is estimated using an online nutrition calculator and should not be considered medical advice or guaranteed to be accurate. Please consult a professional for any dietary needs or restrictions.
