Texas Roadhouse Pork Chops Recipe

Texas Roadhouse Pork Chops Recipe brings the famous restaurant taste right to your kitchen. I love making this dish because it reminds me of my first visit to Texas Roadhouse with my family.

The smell of those juicy pork chops cooking made my mouth water. Now I can make them at home anytime I want.

This recipe uses simple spices and brown sugar to create that perfect sweet and spicy flavor. The pork chops turn out tender and full of taste. You don’t need to be a chef to make this dish.

I promise you can do it too. The best part is watching your family smile when they take that first bite. This Texas Roadhouse Pork Chops Recipe will become your new favorite dinner.

What Does Copycat Texas Roadhouse Pork Chops Taste Like

When I first made this Texas Roadhouse Pork Chops Recipe, I was amazed at how close it tasted to the real thing. The flavor is a perfect mix of sweet and spicy.

You get that nice brown sugar sweetness that makes your taste buds happy. Then the cayenne pepper adds just enough heat to wake up your mouth.

The garlic powder and black pepper give it that deep, rich taste. The pork comes out so tender you can cut it with a fork. Each bite is juicy and full of flavor.

The outside gets golden brown and crispy while the inside stays soft and moist. It’s like having a little piece of Texas right on your plate. My kids always ask for seconds when I make this dish.

Key Ingredients in Texas Roadhouse Pork Chops

Here’s what you need to make this dish. I’ll explain each ingredient and give you some swaps if you don’t have something on hand.

• Boneless Pork Chops (4 pieces, about 1-inch thick): These are the star of the dish. They’re lean but juicy when cooked right. Look for chops with a bit of fat for extra flavor.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): This helps the chops get a nice golden crust when you fry them. It also adds a mild, rich flavor.
• Black Pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a mild heat and sharp flavor to the spice rub. Freshly ground is best, but pre-ground is fine.
• Cayenne Pepper (½ teaspoon): Gives a slight spicy kick. You can adjust this if you don’t like too much heat.
• Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon): Brings a savory, garlicky taste without the fuss of fresh garlic.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and makes the pork pop. Use regular table salt or kosher salt.
• Brown Sugar (2 tablespoons): This creates a sweet, sticky glaze that makes the chops extra special. Light or dark brown sugar both work.

Required Kitchen Tools

Here’s what you’ll need to make these pork chops:

1. Large skillet (non-stick or cast iron)
2. Mixing bowl (small, for the spice rub)
3. Measuring spoons
4. Tongs or spatula (to flip the chops)
5. Baking dish (oven-safe)
6. Oven mitts
7. Knife and cutting board (for serving)
8. Plate or tray (to rest the chops)

How To Make Texas Roadhouse Pork Chops

Let’s make these pork chops step-by-step. I’ve kept it simple so even beginners can follow along. You’ll have a delicious meal in no time!

Step 1 | Make the Spice Rub

In a small bowl, mix ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. Stir it well with a spoon. This rub gives your chops that Texas Roadhouse flavor.

Step 2 | Season the Pork Chops

Pat your pork chops dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle the spice rub on both sides of each chop. Rub it in with your hands so it sticks. Don’t skip this—it makes the chops tasty!

Step 3 | Heat the Skillet

Put your large skillet on medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and let it get hot. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers a bit.

Step 4 | Fry the Chops

Place the pork chops in the hot skillet. Cook them for 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them golden brown. Use tongs to flip them carefully. Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.

Step 5 | Add the Brown Sugar

Once both sides are golden, sprinkle ½ tablespoon of brown sugar on top of each chop. This will make a sweet, sticky glaze in the oven.

Step 6 | Bake the Chops

Move the chops to an oven-safe baking dish (or keep them in the skillet if it’s oven-safe). Put them in the preheated 400°F oven, uncovered, for 15 minutes. This melts the sugar and finishes cooking the chops.

Step 7 | Rest and Serve

Take the chops out of the oven and let them sit for 5 minutes. This keeps them juicy. Then, slice and serve with your favorite sides!

Chef’s Note + Tips

Here are some extra tips to make your pork chops perfect:

1. Dry the Chops: Patting them dry before seasoning helps the rub stick better.
2. Don’t Overcook: Check the temperature to avoid dry chops. 145°F is perfect.
3. Adjust Spice: If you don’t like spicy, use less cayenne or skip it.
4. Use a Hot Pan: A hot skillet gives you that nice golden crust.
5. Rest the Meat: Letting the chops sit after cooking keeps them juicy.
6. Try Different Sides: Pair with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad.

Make Ahead & Storage

You can prep these Texas Roadhouse Pork Chops ahead to save time. Mix the spice rub and coat the chops a day before. Keep them in the fridge, covered tightly. When ready, just fry and bake as usual.

For storage, put leftover chops in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay good for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

You can freeze cooked chops, too. Wrap each one in plastic wrap, then put them in a freezer bag. They last up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

How do you know if they’ve gone bad? If the pork smells sour, feels slimy, or looks gray, toss it. Don’t taste it to check!

How To Serve Texas Roadhouse Pork Chops

Serving these Texas Roadhouse Pork Chops is so fun! I like to slice them into strips for a nice presentation, then put them on a plate with some roasted potatoes and green beans, just like Texas Roadhouse does.

You can add a side of applesauce for a sweet touch or some cornbread for that Southern vibe. Keep it simple to let the chops shine.

If you’re feeding a crowd, lay them out on a big platter with veggies and rolls. Your guests will love it, and it feels like a restaurant meal at home!

Texas Roadhouse Pork Chops Recipe FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Bone-in pork chops work great, but they take a bit longer to cook. Add 2-3 minutes per side when frying and check that they reach 145°F inside when baking. The bone adds extra flavor, so it’s a nice choice if you have them. Just make sure they’re about 1-inch thick for even cooking.

2. Can I make this recipe without an oven?

You can! After frying the chops, instead of baking, keep them in the skillet on low heat. Cover the pan and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping once. Sprinkle the brown sugar halfway through. Check the internal temperature (145°F) to make sure they’re done. It won’t be exactly like Texas Roadhouse, but it’s still tasty!

3. What if I don’t have brown sugar?

No brown sugar? No problem! You can use honey or maple syrup, but use about 1 tablespoon since they’re sweeter. Spread it lightly on the chops before the final baking step. You can also try white sugar, but it won’t have the same rich, caramel-like flavor.

4. Can I make this recipe less spicy?

Absolutely! If you don’t like spice, skip the cayenne pepper or use just a pinch. You can also replace it with paprika for a smoky flavor without the heat. The rest of the spices, like garlic powder and black pepper, still give you that Texas Roadhouse taste you love.

5. How do I know when the pork chops are done?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer. Pork chops are done at 145°F inside. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into one chop. The meat should be white, not pink, with clear juices. Don’t overcook, or they’ll get dry. Let them rest 5 minutes before serving.

6. Can I grill these pork chops instead of frying?

Yes, you can grill them! Rub the chops with the spice mix and a little oil. Grill on medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side until golden. Add the brown sugar and grill for 1 more minute per side to make the glaze. Check that they’re 145°F inside before serving.

7. What sides go best with Texas Roadhouse Pork Chops?

I love serving these with roasted potatoes and green beans, like Texas Roadhouse does. You can also try mashed potatoes, cornbread, or a fresh salad. Applesauce is a great sweet side, too. Pick what you like—simple sides let the pork chops be the star!

Final Words

I hope you love making this Texas Roadhouse Pork Chops Recipe as much as I do! It’s easy, full of flavor, and brings that restaurant vibe home.

Try it for dinner, and you’ll see how juicy and tasty these chops are. Grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a meal that everyone will rave about!