Rib Eye Pork Chop Recipe for Juicy, Flavorful Dinners

Nothing compares to the rich, juicy flavor of a perfectly cooked rib eye pork chop. This cut offers a beautiful marbling of fat that melts during cooking, infusing the meat with incredible tenderness and mouthwatering taste.

Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at your next cookout, this rib eye pork chop recipe is sure to become a favorite. With a simple seasoning blend and a few easy steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen.

The secret to an outstanding rib eye pork chop lies in balancing a crispy, golden crust with the succulent, tender center that defines this cut. In this post, we’ll walk you through everything from selecting the best pork chops to mastering the searing and finishing process.

Ready to elevate your pork chop game? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This rib eye pork chop recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks. It combines straightforward ingredients with professional techniques to bring out the best in your pork chops.

The seasoning is simple yet flavorful, allowing the natural richness of the pork to shine. Plus, the method ensures the meat stays juicy without overcooking.

You’ll love how quickly this recipe comes together, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute guests. The crispy sear on the outside contrasts beautifully with the tender, flavorful inside, creating a satisfying bite every time.

And since it requires minimal ingredients, it’s budget-friendly and easy to customize.

Ingredients

• 2 rib eye pork chops (about 1 inch thick, 10-12 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, smashed
• Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional)
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Equipment

• Cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed frying pan
• Tongs
• Meat thermometer
• Cutting board
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Small mixing bowl
• Aluminum foil

Instructions

1. Prepare the pork chops: Pat the rib eye pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a nice crust during searing. In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Rub this seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each pork chop.
2. Heat the skillet: Place your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow the oil to heat until shimmering but not smoking, about 2-3 minutes. A hot pan is essential for a perfect sear.
3. Sear the pork chops: Carefully place the pork chops in the skillet without crowding. Sear for about 3-4 minutes on the first side without moving them to build a golden-brown crust. Flip the pork chops and sear the other side for an additional 3 minutes.
4. Add butter and aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add the butter, smashed garlic cloves, and rosemary sprigs to the skillet. Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the pork chops with the melted butter and aromatics. This adds a wonderful flavor and helps keep the meat moist.
5. Check doneness: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the pork chop. The USDA recommends pork be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption while maintaining juiciness. Once the chops reach this temperature, remove them from the skillet.
6. Rest the meat: Transfer the pork chops to a plate and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let them rest for 5-7 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and juicy chop.
7. Serve: Serve the pork chops hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. Pair with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes.

Tips & Variations

Tip: For the best flavor, let your pork chops come to room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.

Variation: Try marinating the pork chops in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and garlic for an Asian-inspired twist. Marinate for 1-2 hours before cooking.

Tip: If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, a heavy stainless steel pan works well too. Just make sure it retains heat properly for a good sear.

Variation: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or white wine to the pan after searing to create a quick pan sauce. Reduce for a couple of minutes and drizzle over the pork chops.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This rib eye pork chop pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic meal, serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans.

The smooth texture of the potatoes complements the robust flavor of the pork, while the green beans add a fresh crunch.

For a lighter option, try a crisp apple slaw or a mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette. Roasted root vegetables, such as carrots and parsnips, also make a hearty and flavorful accompaniment.

Don’t forget a glass of your favorite white wine or a light beer to round out the meal perfectly!

Conclusion

Mastering the art of cooking a rib eye pork chop is easier than you might think, and this recipe is your ticket to pork chop perfection. With just a handful of ingredients and simple techniques, you can enjoy a juicy, flavorful chop any night of the week.

The key is in the seasoning, the sear, and the resting time that keeps the meat tender and delicious.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe will quickly become a go-to for an impressive, satisfying meal. Try out the tips and variations to make it your own, and don’t forget to explore our other recipes for more culinary inspiration!

For more delicious pork recipes, check out Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin, Slow Cooker Pulled Pork, and Maple Glazed Pork Loin.

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