These Tomato Pork Loin Chops are juicy and flavorful, packed with delicious tomatoes and spices. They’re easy to make and perfect for a lovely dinner any night!
Let’s face it, juicy pork chops make everyone happy! I love pairing them with rice or veggies for a yummy meal. You’ll want to make them again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Loin Chops: Choose chops about 1 inch thick for the best results. If you can’t find pork loin, you can substitute bone-in pork chops or even chicken breasts for a lighter option.
Olive Oil: This oil is my go-to for sautéing because of its great flavor. You can swap it with vegetable oil or canola oil if you want a neutral taste.
Cherry or Grape Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add brightness, but if they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes are a good substitute. Just drain some juice to avoid a watery sauce.
Spices: I love smoked paprika for its flavor, but if you don’t have it, regular paprika works fine. You can skip chili powder if you’re not into spicy dishes!
How Do You Get the Perfect Sear on Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops gives them a nice brown crust and locks in moisture. To achieve this, there are a couple of steps to follow:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the oil. This helps create that beautiful crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give the chops space. If they’re too close together, they’ll steam instead of sear.
- Let them sear without moving them for 3-4 minutes until they release easily from the pan. Flip and do the same on the other side.
These small tips can make a world of difference in flavor and texture!
Tomato Pork Loin Chops
Ingredients:
- 4 pork loin chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend the first few minutes seasoning and searing the pork chops, then preparing the flavorful tomato sauce. The simmering time allows all the ingredients to blend beautifully, which is well worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork loin chops generously on both sides with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and chili powder if you’re feeling adventurous. This seasoning gives the pork extra flavor!
2. Searing the Pork:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. Once done, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside. This step helps lock in the juices!
3. Preparing the Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions. Sauté them for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to soften and caramelize slightly. After that, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
4. Making the Tomato Sauce:
Next, add the halved cherry or grape tomatoes, crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce), dried oregano, and sugar to the skillet. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes. This will help the sauce thicken a little and the tomatoes to soften.
5. Combining Chops with Sauce:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, gently placing them into the bubbling tomato sauce. Make sure to spoon some of the sauce over the chops to infuse all that lovely flavor!
6. Simmering to Perfection:
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let everything simmer for about 10-12 minutes. This allows the pork to cook through completely. You’re looking for the internal temperature to reach 145°F (63°C) for perfectly tender and juicy pork!
7. Garnishing and Serving:
Once finished, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your tomato pork loin chops with fresh thyme sprigs and perhaps some chopped parsley or basil if you like. Serve hot, making sure to spoon extra tomato sauce and onions over the chops. They pair wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for soaking up that delicious sauce!
Enjoy your juicy, savory Tomato Pork Loin Chops with a rich tomato and onion sauce!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops will add extra flavor and moisture to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as they may need a few extra minutes to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Cherry Tomatoes?
If you can’t find cherry or grape tomatoes, canned diced tomatoes make a great alternative. Just drain a bit of the juice to avoid a watery sauce and use them in the same quantity as fresh ones!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop—just add a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce moist!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pork chops in advance. Simply let them cool and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the pork.
