12 Cast Iron Skillet Pork Chop Recipes

Have you ever wanted to make a pork chop taste like it came from a fancy restaurant? The secret is using a cast iron skillet. This pan helps make tasty pork chops that are juicy and full of flavor.

Let me show you 12 amazing cast iron skillet pork chop recipes. They will change the way you cook dinner. These meals are quick and easy, great for busy nights or when you have company over.

We’ll go from classic herb-crusted chops to exciting Asian flavors together. You’ll see pork in a whole new light. Plus, I’ll teach you to get that perfect outside while keeping the inside moist.

Are you ready to boost your cooking game with some new and tasty dinner recipes? These cast iron skillet pork chop dishes are juicy and ready in under 15 minutes.

Key Takeaways

• Cast iron skillets are ideal for cooking juicy pork chops
• These recipes can be prepared in under 15 minutes
• A variety of flavors from classic to international are look atd
• Proper searing technique is crucial for locking in moisture
• Cast iron cooking enhances flavors and creates a perfect crust

The Magic of Cooking Pork Chops in a Cast Iron Skillet

Cooking pork chops in a cast iron skillet is a favorite of mine. The skillet’s heat retention gives the chops a golden sear. This locks in both juices and flavors. Plus, it means your pork chops will always turn out tender and delicious.

Cast iron skillets have some great advantages when it comes to pork chops. Their seasoned surface enhances the flavor. Also, they keep a steady temperature, which is key for a good cook. If you take care of your cast iron skillet, it will reward you with tasty food.

Now, let’s compare how different skillets handle cooking pork chops:

I start by heating my skillet well over medium-high heat. This makes sure the pork chops cook evenly. The high heat also helps form a perfect crust. The end result? Pork chops that are juicy inside and crispy outside. It’s a simple trick that turns a plain pork chop into a five-star meal.

Essential Tips for Perfectly Seared Pork Chops

Searing pork chops perfectly needs careful attention to details. I will give you top tips for a golden-brown crust and a juicy inside. We’ll talk about picking the right chops, seasoning your pan, and how to control the temperature.

Choosing the Right Pork Chops

The thickness of the pork chops is important for searing. Chops between 1 to 1.5 inches thick work best. They keep their moisture when cooked. Bone-in chops are usually more flavorful, but boneless chops are also good. Choose ones with some fat for juiciness.

Seasoning Your Cast Iron Skillet

Having a well-seasoned cast iron skillet is vital. Proper seasoning makes it non-stick and adds flavor. Use oils with high smoke points to season your skillet. These are several popular choices:

Temperature Control Techniques

Getting the temperature right is crucial for amazing pork chops. Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chops for 3-4 minutes on each side. After, lower the heat to medium-low to cook inside. Use a meat thermometer. The chops should reach 145°F inside for juiciness and safety.

With these tips, you can make pork chops that taste like from a restaurant. Remember, trying different seasonings and cooking methods helps you find your favorite way.

Classic Herb-Crusted Cast Iron Skillet Pork Chops

I enjoy cooking herb-crusted pork chops in my trusty cast iron skillet. It’s a recipe dear to my heart. These pork chops are full of flavor and quick to whip up. I’ll show you my favorite way to make them.

• 4 bone-in pork chops (1-inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Next, we’ll get these tasty pork chops cooking:

1. Combine the herbs, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Dry the pork chops and rub them with this mixture.
3. Warm up the olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Place the pork chops in the skillet and cook each side for 4-5 minutes.
5. Let them sit for 5 minutes before you dig in.

This recipe creates juicy pork chops with a crunchy, herb-infused coat. The herbs add a wonderful smell and flavor. The skillet gives them a sear that’s just perfect. For a great meal, pair them with stir-fried vegetables and noodles.

Garlic Butter Cast Iron Pork Chops

I enjoy making pork chops in a cast iron skillet. The key is a tasty garlic butter sauce. This dish takes less than 15 minutes to make and tastes great!

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Sauce

For this recipe, you’ll need:

• 4 bone-in pork chops (1-inch thick)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make the pork chops:

1. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper.
2. Warm your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Go ahead and sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Then, turn the heat down to medium-low and add the butter, garlic, and thyme.
5. Baste the pork chops in the garlic butter sauce for a few minutes.
6. Take them off the heat when the inside reaches 135°F.

Serving Suggestions

These delicious pork chops go well with veggies or mashed potatoes. You can also pair them with a quick cabbage stir-fry.

Each serving has 541 calories and 29g of protein, making it a filling dinner. Don’t forget to let the pork chops sit a bit before serving to keep them juicy.

Smoky Paprika and Thyme Skillet Pork Chops

I really enjoy cooking with my cast iron skillet. One dish I make a lot is smoky paprika and thyme pork chops. The pork gets a bold kick from smoky paprika and fragrant thyme. It makes for a tasty meal.

Here’s what you need to make this dish:

• 4 bone-in pork chops (1-inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, juiced

Begin by mixing the smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this mix onto the pork chops. Make sure to cover them well. Then, heat your skillet over medium-high and add oil.

When the skillet’s ready, put in the pork chops. They should cook for 3-4 minutes on each side. They’re done when they’re golden and the inside is 145°F (63°C). Let them sit for five minutes after cooking.

Just before you eat, squeeze lemon juice on the pork chops. It gives them a fresh taste. These pork chops go great with roasted sweet potatoes or a salad. Check out this skillet recipe for another delicious meal idea.

Cast Iron Skillet Pork Chop Recipes with Apple Cider Glaze

Cast iron pork chops with apple cider glaze make a great meal. This recipe is a tasty mix of salty pork and sweet apple cider. It only takes 25 minutes to prepare, great for quick dinners. It serves 4, good for families or small groups.

Making the Apple Cider Reduction

To make the glaze, I mix 2 cups of apple cider with 1/4 cup of brown sugar and a teaspoon of cinnamon. This mix boils down in about 15 minutes, forming a rich sauce. It’s perfect to top your pork chops.

Pairing Side Dishes

I pair the pork chops with sautéed apples and Brussels sprouts for a filling dinner. The crisp apples and greens go well with the juicy pork. Try adding a shrimp and dumpling stir-fry for something different.

This recipe is easy to change up. You can try different sides or use chicken instead of pork. The cast iron pan cooks everything evenly. This way, your meal turns out perfect every time.

Mustard and Rosemary Pan-Seared Pork Chops

I enjoy making mustard rosemary pork chops this way. It’s fast, simple, and full of taste. These chops mix the tartness of Dijon mustard with the smell of fresh rosemary for a tasty meal.

You’ll need these for the recipe:

• 4 boneless pork loin chops (2 inches thick)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup white wine
• Salt and pepper to taste

First, mix Dijon mustard, rosemary, garlic, and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a bowl. Then, cover the pork chops with this mix and let them sit in the fridge for an hour or two.

Next, heat the rest of the olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high. Sear the pork chops for 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are 145°F inside. A ThermaPen gives a quick and accurate temperature reading in just 3 seconds.

Take the pork chops from the skillet and add white wine to it to deglaze. Let it boil for about 5 minutes till it becomes a thick sauce. Top the pork chops with this delicious sauce.

This way of cooking gives us juicy and flavorful pork chops. They’re a great way to enjoy a meal.

Cajun-Spiced Cast Iron Pork Chops

Firing up spicy pork chops in a cast iron skillet adds excitement to dinner. They carry the zest of Cajun dishes, spicing things up just right. Let’s jump into cooking this tasty meal.

Creating Your Own Cajun Spice Blend

Making a Cajun spice blend at home is key for these pork chops. Mix these ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

This mix is enough to flavor 4 thick-cut pork chops just right.

Cooking Techniques for Spicy Pork Chops

Using a cast iron skillet really improves these spicy chops. Here’s the recipe:

1. Coat both sides of your pork chops with the spice mix.
2. Warm up a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and oil.
3. Cook the pork chops for 5-6 minutes per side if they’re 1 inch thick. For thicker ones, it’s 7-10 minutes.
4. Check with a meat thermometer to be sure they reach 140°F-145°F inside.

Pair the spicy chops with dirty rice and collard greens for a full meal. They blend well, making a true taste of the South. Don’t forget, you can tweak the spice level by changing the cayenne amount in the mix.

Maple-Glazed Skillet Pork Chops

I enjoy making dishes that mix sweet and salty, like these maple-glazed skillet pork chops. The sweet maple syrup and the rich seasonings come together to make a tasty glaze. This glaze makes the pork chops taste amazing.

I start by seasoning four bone-in center cut pork chops. I use a blend of 1/2 tablespoon each of smoked paprika and garlic powder. I also add salt to taste. This seasoning gives the meat a rich flavor.

In a bowl, I mix together:

• 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons coconut aminos
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

Next, I melt 2 tablespoons of lard, ghee, or butter in a skillet. I use a Lodge cast iron one. Over medium-high heat, I sear the pork chops for 2 minutes on each side until they’re brown. I then lower the heat to medium-low and cook for another 3-5 minutes on each side.

As they cook, I brush the maple glaze over the chops. This adds lots of flavor. I check the temperature with a thermometer to make sure it’s 145°F.

After they’re cooked, I let the pork chops sit for 10-15 minutes. This resting time is important. It helps the meat stay juicy and tender.

These skillet pork chops make a perfect dinner in the fall. I often pair them with roasted butternut squash or red wine Brussels sprouts. It’s a quick and easy meal, ready in just 30 minutes. So, it’s great for busy evenings.

Asian-Inspired Soy and Ginger Cast Iron Pork Chops

Making Asian-inspired pork chops in my cast iron skillet is always fun. The soy ginger marinade makes the meat taste amazing. Plus, the cast iron gives the chops a tasty crust. Many people love this recipe, giving it a high rating.

Marinating Tips for Maximum Flavor

To make a great soy ginger marinade, combine 1/4 cup of soy sauce and 2 tbsp of honey. Add 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp of minced ginger, 1 tsp of sesame oil, and 2 tsp of gochujang sauce. This mix brings together savory, sweet, and spicy tastes well. Marinate the pork for 20 minutes at least. For even better flavor, marinate for 1-2 hours.

Achieving the Perfect Sear

For a great sear, heat your cast iron skillet over medium-high. Put a tablespoon of oil into it. Sear the pork chops, marinated, for 3-4 minutes on each side. This method keeps the meat juicy and creates a golden crust. Cook until the pork is at 145°F (63°C) inside.

Pair these pork chops with stir-fry and rice for a full meal. Each serving comes to 279 calories, 42g of protein, and only 3g of carbs. It’s a filling, low-carb option. The recipe takes just 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a tasty, quick dinner during the week.

Balsamic and Honey Glazed Skillet Pork Chops

I enjoy making meals that mix sweet and tangy flavors. These balsamic and honey glazed pork chops are a great dish. They blend the deep tastes of balsamic vinegar and honey. The result is a glaze that makes the pork chops juicy and tasty.

You’ll need these ingredients to make this dish:

• 4 boneless pork loin chops (about 2 lbs)
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

First, season the pork chops with salt and pepper. Then, heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high. Add the pork chops and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are a golden brown.

While the chops are cooking, make the balsamic honey glaze. Mix the balsamic vinegar, honey, and garlic in a bowl. This mix of sweet and tangy flavors is perfect for the dish.

After searing the pork, pour the glaze over the chops in the skillet. Let them simmer for 2-3 minutes. Turn the chops to get the glaze evenly on them. Soon, the glaze will be a sweet, caramelized layer on the pork.

Take the skillet off the heat when the pork reaches 145°F. Let them sit a bit before serving. In about 30 minutes, you’ll have a tasty, gluten-free meal.

These glazed pork chops are perfect for any time. They are great with roasted veggies or a salad. You can also keep the leftovers for up to 3 days, making meal prep easy.

Mediterranean-Style Pork Chops with Olives and Tomatoes

I enjoy cooking pork chops this way in my skillet. This meal is all made in one skillet with olives, tomatoes, and juicy pork. It’s quick, easy, and ready in just 30 minutes. Plus, it makes enough for 4 people.

Preparing the Mediterranean Topping

I first sauté a mix of tasty ingredients in my skillet for the topping:

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

These ingredients bring both flavor and color to the pork. Tomatoes add a little tartness, while olives give a salty kick. Then, garlic and oregano make it smell like the Mediterranean.

One-Skillet Cooking Method

I use four boneless pork chops that are 6 ounces and about an inch thick. Here’s what I do to them:

1. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of oil.
3. Sear the chops for 4-5 minutes per side until they’re cooked through.
4. Take the chops off the heat and let them sit for 5 minutes.
5. Cook the Mediterranean topping in the same skillet for 3-4 minutes.
6. Put the pork chops back in the skillet and cover with the topping.
7. Before eating, add crumbled feta on top.

This dish is not just tasty but also good for you. Each serving has 49g of protein and plenty of good fats from olives and olive oil. Serve it with Greek lemon potatoes for a full Mediterranean meal.

Creamy Mushroom Sauce Cast Iron Pork Chops

I enjoy cooking cast iron pork chops with creamy mushroom sauce. It’s quick comfort food, ready in just 30 minutes. This recipe makes enough for 4 and each serving is rich, with 791 calories.

First I heat the cast iron skillet and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. I then coat 2 pounds of boneless pork loin chops with a mix of 2 tablespoons of flour, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and 1/2 teaspoon of paprika. After 3-4 minutes on each side in the skillet, they’re golden brown.

Then, I take the pork chops out and put in a tablespoon of olive oil. I cook 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms and 5 minced garlic cloves until soft. After that, I add 1.5 cups of heavy cream and 3 tablespoons of fresh thyme to the skillet.

The sauce simmers until it thickens. After that, I put back the pork chops. They’re covered in the creamy mushroom sauce. This makes a tasty dish that many have rated highly. With a 4.81 out of 5 from 172 votes, it’s clear why this dish is popular for cast iron skillet cooking!

Low-Carb Lemon and Herb Cast Iron Skillet Pork Chops

I really enjoy making low-carb pork chops in my cast iron skillet. It’s both quick and delicious, perfect for gluten-free meals. The key is to use the right mix of lemon herb seasoning and cooking method.

Selecting Low-Carb Ingredients

I pick thick-cut pork chops for this recipe, at least 1″ thick. The seasoning includes lemon zest, fresh herbs, garlic powder, and olive oil. I avoid added sugars or starchy items to keep it low-carb.

• 4 pork chops (1″ thick)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or sage)

Cooking Instructions

Start by heating your 12-inch cast iron skillet on medium-high. Rub the pork chops with the lemon herb mixture. Sear them for 2-3 minutes per side, then bake at 400°F for about 15 minutes. Cook them until they reach 145°F inside for medium-rare.

Nutritional Benefits

These pork chops are both tasty and good for you. Here’s what you get in each serving:

This meal is great for people on a ketogenic or low-carb diet. It’s high in protein yet low in carbs. The lemon herb mix adds taste without extra calories. Plus, the cast iron skillet gives a nice sear every time.

Tips for Storing and Reheating Skillet Pork Chops

I love cooking pork chops but sometimes I make too many. Storing them well is vital for later meals. Let the chops cool for 10 minutes after cooking. Store them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will be good for 3-4 days. For longer times, tightly wrap and freeze for 2-3 months.

When you’re ready to reheat, try my favorite ways. To use the oven, heat it to 300°F. Put your pork chops in a baking dish with a little broth. Cover the dish with foil and heat for 10-15 minutes.

The cast iron skillet is great too. Warm it up over medium-low heat with some broth. Gently reheat the chops, flipping them once.

For a quick fix, the microwave is handy. I choose 50% power to avoid dryness. No matter the method, make sure the chop’s inside is 145°F for safety. Let them rest for 5 minutes after heating. This keeps them moist and tasty. And, never freeze again if you’ve already thawed them once. This is important for your health and the pork chop’s quality.