Peppered Pork Chops
Juicy peppered pork chops with a savory Worcestershire glaze, perfect for a quick, flavorful meal suited for busy weeknights or weekend dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Coat the pork chops with ground black pepper and thyme leaves.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chops and cook until browned on one side, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Turn the chops to brown the other side.
- Remove the chops from the pan and keep warm.
- Deglaze the skillet by adding Worcestershire sauce, stirring constantly to loosen any cooked pan juices.
- Pour the juices over the chops and serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in Worcestershire sauce for about 30 minutes before seasoning with pepper and thyme. If you want a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix. For a quick side, try preparing the Super Bean Bake, which complements these pork chops beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the peppered pork chops with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also add a refreshing contrast. For a comforting touch, pair with Texas Baked Beans, making for a satisfying combination.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep them moist, or microwave them for 1-2 minutes, covered, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peppered Pork Chops contains roughly 111 calories, with 6g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (178% of the Daily Value), iron (98% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 14g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless?
Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops; just adjust the cooking time, as they may take a few extra minutes to cook through. Make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure they reach at least 145°F for safe consumption.
What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce?
If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, you can create a substitute by mixing soy sauce with a splash of vinegar and a bit of sugar. This will mimic the savory and slightly tangy flavor of Worcestershire sauce in the recipe.
How do I know when the pork chops are fully cooked?
The best way to check if pork chops are fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chop; it should read 145°F. Alternatively, the meat should be firm to the touch and slightly pink in the center.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).