Buttermilk Pork Chop Recipes That Are Easy and Delicious

Buttermilk pork chops are a delightful twist on a classic comfort food favorite. The tangy, creamy buttermilk not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with a subtle richness that makes every bite incredibly juicy and flavorful.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings out the best in pork chops, turning an ordinary cut into a succulent, mouthwatering dish. Marinating the pork chops in buttermilk helps break down the proteins, resulting in tender chops that practically melt in your mouth.

This technique is simple yet effective, and paired with a crispy, seasoned crust, it makes for a perfect meal that’s both satisfying and impressive.

If you’ve been searching for a foolproof way to elevate your pork chops, this buttermilk pork chop recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. It’s a great way to introduce more flavor and juiciness without complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.

Plus, it’s versatile — you can adapt it with different spices and sides to suit your mood or the season. Ready to learn how to make the best buttermilk pork chops?

Let’s dive right in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe marries the tenderizing magic of buttermilk with the savory goodness of seasoned pork chops, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture. The buttermilk marinade ensures the meat is incredibly tender and juicy, while the seasoned coating crisps up beautifully during cooking.

It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and works well whether you’re pan-frying, baking, or grilling. The flexibility of this recipe lets you customize the seasoning to your preference, making it a perfect crowd-pleaser.

Plus, pork chops cooked this way are excellent for meal prep, as they reheat wonderfully without drying out.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick, around 6-8 oz each)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl or resealable plastic bag (for marinating)
• Shallow dish or plate (for dredging)
• Cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed frying pan
• Tongs
• Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)
• Paper towels
• Serving platter

Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. This flavorful mixture will tenderize and season your pork chops.
2. Marinate the pork chops: Place the pork chops in the bowl with the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight for maximum tenderness and flavor infusion.
3. Prepare the dredging station: In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. This seasoned flour will create a crispy coating on your chops.
4. Coat the pork chops: Remove each pork chop from the marinade, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off. Dredge thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere, then place on a wire rack or plate. Let them rest for 10 minutes to set the coating.
5. Heat the pan: Warm the olive oil and butter together in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. The combination of oil and butter ensures a flavorful crust without burning.
6. Cook the pork chops: Add the pork chops to the hot pan, cooking for about 4-5 minutes per side. Avoid crowding the pan to ensure even browning. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
7. Rest the meat: Transfer the pork chops to a plate and tent loosely with foil. Let them rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy bite.
8. Serve and enjoy: Serve your buttermilk pork chops with your favorite sides and garnish as desired.

Tips & Variations

“Marinating your pork chops overnight in buttermilk is a game changer — it tenderizes the meat deeply and infuses subtle tangy flavor that’s impossible to beat.”

• Spice it up: Add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the marinade for an aromatic touch.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blend for coating.
• Oven-baked version: After dredging, place chops on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Use boneless chops: For quicker cooking, boneless pork chops work well but watch the cooking time closely to avoid drying out.
• Add a sauce: Serve with a creamy mushroom sauce or classic pan gravy to elevate the dish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Buttermilk pork chops pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a classic Southern-inspired meal, serve with mashed potatoes, creamy coleslaw, and cornbread.

Roasted vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or carrots complement the richness of the pork perfectly.

Looking for something lighter? A crisp garden salad with a vinaigrette or a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad balances the hearty pork chops nicely.

Don’t forget a glass of your favorite white wine or a cold craft beer to round out the meal.

Conclusion

Buttermilk pork chops are a fantastic way to transform simple pork chops into a juicy, flavorful, and tender dish that your entire family will love. The buttermilk marinade tenderizes the meat, while the seasoned flour coating adds a satisfying crisp texture.

This recipe is straightforward, adaptable, and perfect for cooks of all skill levels.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or entertaining guests, these pork chops deliver consistently delicious results with minimal effort. Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices and sides to make this recipe your own.

Happy cooking!

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