These Tomato Pork Loin Chops are juicy and flavorful, topped with a rich tomato sauce. It’s a simple dish that warms you up and makes you feel right at home!
I love how the sweet tomatoes mix perfectly with the savory pork. It’s a great way to turn a regular dinner into something special without too much fuss! Just serve it with rice or veggies, and you’re all set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Loin Chops: These are the star of the dish! If you can’t find pork loin chops, boneless chicken thighs or even turkey cutlets can work well. They offer a similar texture and absorb flavors nicely.
Cherry Tomatoes: I love cherry tomatoes for their sweetness, but if they’re not in season, use canned diced tomatoes instead. They can add a lovely depth to the sauce.
Onion: A medium onion adds great flavor. If you want a milder taste, you could use shallots or green onions. They provide a nice sweetness to balance the dish.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley elevate the dish. If fresh isn’t available, use dried herbs, but remember that dried herbs are stronger, so use less.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Sear the Pork Chops?
Searing the pork chops is crucial for locking in flavor and moisture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Always pat the pork chops dry before seasoning. This helps them brown better.
- Heat the olive oil until it’s shimmering, but not smoking. This means it’s hot enough for a good sear.
- Add the pork chops without overcrowding the pan. If you have too many, do them in batches to allow for even cooking.
- Sear each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown but don’t move them around. Let them get that nice crust!
After searing, they can continue to cook in the sauce, staying juicy and flavorful. Enjoy!
Tomato Pork Loin Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 pork loin chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (thyme or parsley)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking time, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. In just about 35 minutes, you’ll have flavorful Tomato Pork Loin Chops ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
First, pat the pork loin chops dry with paper towels. This helps them to sear better! Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and paprika if you’d like a hint of smokiness.
2. Sear the Chops:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops to the pan. Let them sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Once they’re nicely browned, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Onions:
In the same skillet (don’t worry, those tasty bits left in the pan will add flavor!), add the sliced onions. Sauté them for about 3 minutes until they’re soft and becoming translucent.
4. Add the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. This is where the wonderful aroma starts to fill your kitchen!
5. Cook the Tomatoes:
Now, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and start to release their juices.
6. Build the Sauce:
Pour in the tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes) and stir everything together. If you’re using dried oregano or fresh thyme, add that now too. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors and thicken a bit.
7. Combine and Simmer:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon some of the yummy sauce over the chops to coat them. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Allow everything to simmer for about 8-10 minutes until the pork is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Serve It Up:
Finally, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. Serve the pork chops hot, topped with that delicious tomato sauce. They go wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables!
Enjoy your cooking and the happy smiles at your dinner table!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops will add extra flavor and moisture, making the dish even tastier. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they reach the right internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have Cherry Tomatoes?
No problem! You can substitute cherry tomatoes with regular diced tomatoes, either fresh or canned. If using canned, you may want to reduce the amount of tomato sauce to avoid excess liquid in the dish.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare everything up to step 6, then store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the skillet over medium heat before completing the cooking process with the pork chops.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
