How to Cook a Duroc Pork Chop

A great pork chop doesn't need much.

When you start with premium Duroc pork, the goal isn't to cover it up, it's to let the rich flavor and natural marbling shine.

The secret? Don't overcook it.

How to Cook a Duroc Pork Chop

Ingredients

Creamery Creek Duroc Pork Chops
Olive oil or melted butter
Salt
Ground black pepper
Garlic powder (optional)
Fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme (optional)

Instructions

1. Remove the pork chops from the refrigerator 20 to 30 minutes before cooking.
2. Pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Lightly coat with olive oil or butter and season generously with salt and pepper.
4. Heat a grill or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Cooking time depends on thickness, not the clock. Use an instant-read thermometer and pull your pork chops at 140°F. After a 3 to 5 minute rest, they'll finish at the perfect 145°F.

The Perfect Pork Chop Temperature

For the juiciest results, cook your pork chops to 140°F, then remove them from the heat and let them rest for at least 3 minutes.  After a 3 to 5 minute rest, they'll finish at the perfect 145°F.

A slight blush of pink in the center is perfectly safe and helps keep the chop tender and juicy.

Don't Skip the Rest

Resting allows the juices to settle back into the meat. Cutting into the chop too soon lets those flavorful juices run onto the plate instead of staying in every bite.

Five minutes of patience is well worth it.

Grilled or Cast Iron?

Both methods produce excellent results.

Grill: Perfect for summer evenings and a light smoky flavor.  This is often the method we use because at my house we need to make a lot at once.

Cast Iron Skillet: Creates a beautiful golden crust while keeping the inside tender. Add a tablespoon of butter and a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme during the last minute of cooking for even more flavor.  This is the method I use for date night!

What to Serve with Duroc Pork Chops

Some of our favorites include: Garlic mashed potatoes,  Roasted baby potatoes, Grilled sweet corn, Green beans with butter, Applesauce, Roasted Brussels sprouts and a Fresh garden salad.

Why We Love Duroc Pork

There's a reason Duroc pork has earned such a loyal following. The exceptional marbling, rich flavor, and tenderness make it a cut that's hard to beat.

When you start with high-quality pork, simple seasoning and careful cooking are all you need to create an unforgettable meal.

Happy cooking!

XOXO,

Louisa