These Easy Salt and Pepper Pork Chop Bites are quick, juicy, and oh-so-satisfying! You just season the pork, pan-fry them, and enjoy bite-sized goodness.
Trust me, these little bites are perfect for snacks or as tasty finger food at parties. And the best part? You’ll want to have a few extra on hand for yourself! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are ideal for this dish because they’re easy to cut and cook quickly. If you have bone-in chops, you can use those too, but they’ll take a bit longer to cook. For a leaner option, consider using turkey cutlets.
Salt & Pepper: Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper will enhance the pork’s flavor. If you’re watching your sodium intake, use sea salt instead, and adjust the amount to your taste.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds a nice depth of flavor. If you prefer fresh garlic, 1-2 cloves minced will work well, but add it closer to the end of cooking to avoid burning.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a smoky flavor without any heat. If you want a bit of spice, you could switch it out for cayenne pepper or leave it out altogether.
Olive Oil: This is my go-to, but any cooking oil can do the job. If you want to keep things light, using a non-stick spray is also an option.
How Can I Ensure My Pork Bites Are Cooked Just Right?
The key to perfectly cooked pork bites is not to rush the cooking process. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start with a preheated skillet and make sure the oil is shimmering before adding the pork. This helps in getting that nice sear.
- Cook in batches if your skillet is small; overcrowding can steam the meat instead of browning it, which you don’t want.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; aim for 145°F (63°C) for juicy, tender pork.
- Let the pork rest briefly on a paper towel-lined plate. This keeps them crispy and lets any excess oil drain off.
These tips will help you achieve juicy and flavorful bites every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Salt and Pepper Pork Chop Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound boneless pork chops
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
- Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 10 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 20 minutes from start to finish. Quick and delicious, perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This will help to get a nice sear. Next, cut the pork chops into bite-sized cubes, about 1 to 1.5 inches on each side. This size is perfect for cooking quickly and ensuring lots of flavor in every bite!
2. Season the Meat:
In a medium bowl, mix together the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if you’re using it). Take this seasoning mix and sprinkle it evenly over the pork pieces. Make sure to toss the pork bites gently so that they are coated all over with the delicious spices.
3. Heat the Skillet:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. This means the oil is hot enough to sear the pork and get that nice golden brown color.
4. Cook the Pork Bites:
Add the seasoned pork bites to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you can cook them in batches if your skillet isn’t big enough. This way, they will sear nicely instead of steaming.
5. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Cook the pork bites for about 3-4 minutes on each side, turning occasionally with tongs or a spatula. Keep cooking until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This will ensure they are juicy and cooked through.
6. Drain and Serve:
Once finished, remove the pork bites from the skillet and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This step helps keep them crispy!
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
You can garnish the pork bites with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve them with lemon wedges for a bright, zesty touch if you like. They are great as a snack, appetizer, or alongside your favorite side dishes. Enjoy your easy salt and pepper pork chop bites!
This recipe is not only simple to make but also delivers on flavor and crunch. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless pork chops are ideal for this dish, you can also use pork tenderloin or pork loin. Just ensure the meat is cut into similar bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No problem! If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can simply omit it. Alternatively, regular paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat can be substituted. Adjust the quantity to suit your taste!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. They may lose some crispiness, so the skillet method works best!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While these bites are best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the pork and season it a few hours ahead of time and keep it covered in the fridge. Just pan-fry them right before serving for the best texture!
