Are you looking for a delicious and impressive meal to serve your family or guests? Look no further than the tomahawk pork chop!
This bone-in cut of pork is not only visually stunning, but also incredibly flavorful and tender when cooked properly. And the best part? You can easily cook it in the oven!
In this article, we’ll share some tips and tricks for cooking the perfect tomahawk pork chop in your oven, whether you prefer a dry rub, a honey garlic glaze, or a lemon-herb marinade.
So preheat your oven and get ready to impress with this show-stopping dish!
How To Cook Tomahawk Pork Chops In The Oven?
First things first, let’s talk about the basics of cooking a tomahawk pork chop in the oven.
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and arrange a rack in the middle of the oven.
2. Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel and season with your preferred dry rub or marinade.
3. Let the pork chops rest for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
4. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over high heat and sear the meat on one side for about 3 minutes.
5. Flip the chop over and put the skillet in the oven.
6. Bake the pork chops for about 6-10 minutes or until a probe thermometer inserted into the meat (not touching the bone) reaches 135 degrees F.
But what if you want to try something different? Here are some variations on cooking tomahawk pork chops in the oven:
Choosing The Right Tomahawk Pork Chops
When it comes to choosing the right tomahawk pork chops, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Firstly, look for pork chops that are at least 1 inch thick. This will ensure that the meat stays juicy and tender during the cooking process. Thicker pork chops also allow for more even cooking, which is important when using the oven.
Secondly, consider the type of pork chop you want to use. The tomahawk pork chop is a popular choice due to its bone-in nature and thicker cut of meat. However, other cuts such as rib chops or loin chops can also be used for oven cooking.
Lastly, consider the quality of the meat. Look for pork that is fresh and preferably from a trusted source. Pork that has been raised without antibiotics or hormones will likely have a better flavor and texture.
Preparing The Pork Chops For Cooking
Before you start cooking your tomahawk pork chops in the oven, it’s important to prepare them properly. Here’s how:
1. Choose your pork chops: Look for bone-in or boneless loin pork chops that are at least 1 inch thick. Thin chops may cook too quickly and become dry, while thicker chops may take longer to cook.
2. Season the pork chops: Season the pork chops generously with salt, pepper, and any other dry rub or marinade of your choice. Let them rest for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
3. Preheat your skillet: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over high heat. It’s important that the skillet is hot before you add the pork chops to ensure a good sear.
4. Add oil to the skillet: Add a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil to the hot skillet. Make sure there’s enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
5. Sear the pork chops: When the oil begins to shimmer, add the pork chops to the skillet. Sear them on one side for about 3 minutes or until they’re browned and crispy.
6. Flip and transfer to the oven: Flip the pork chops over using tongs or a spatula and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 6-10 minutes or until a probe thermometer inserted into the meat (not touching the bone) reaches 135 degrees F.
By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to prepare your tomahawk pork chops for cooking in the oven and ensure they come out juicy, tender, and full of flavor.
Dry Rub Vs. Marinade Vs. Glaze: Which Flavor Profile To Choose?
When it comes to adding flavor to your tomahawk pork chops, there are a few options to consider: dry rubs, marinades, and glazes. Each method has its own unique benefits and can help you achieve a different flavor profile.
Dry rubs are a blend of spices that are rubbed onto the surface of the meat. They create a flavorful crust on the outside of the pork chop, while allowing the meat to remain juicy and tender on the inside. Dry rubs are great for those who prefer a more intense and complex flavor profile. Some popular ingredients in dry rubs include paprika, brown sugar, salt, and various herbs and spices.
Marinades, on the other hand, are a mixture of liquids and spices that the pork chops are soaked in before cooking. Marinades can help tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. They work well for those who prefer a more subtle and nuanced flavor profile. Some common ingredients in marinades include oil, vinegar, citrus juice, soy sauce, garlic, and herbs.
Finally, glazes are thick, sweet sauces that are brushed onto the surface of the pork chops during cooking. They create a caramelized crust on the outside of the meat and add a sweet and savory flavor. Glazes work well for those who prefer a sweeter flavor profile. Some popular ingredients in glazes include honey, fruit jams and jellies, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and spices.
Ultimately, which method you choose will depend on your personal preferences and the flavors you want to achieve. Dry rubs are great for those who want an intense and complex flavor profile, while marinades are better suited for those who prefer a more subtle flavor. Glazes are perfect for those who want a sweet and savory flavor profile. Whichever method you choose, be sure to allow enough time for the flavors to penetrate the meat before cooking for maximum flavor impact.
Cooking The Tomahawk Pork Chops In The Oven
If you’re looking to add some extra flavor to your tomahawk pork chops, try this seasoning method:
1. Rub the seasoning mix into both sides of the pork, working the rub into the meat so the flavors can permeate throughout the roast.
2. Double wrap the seasoned pork in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 24-48 hours. This will give the seasonings time to work their magic.
3. Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F and unwrap the rack of tomahawk pork chops, placing them in a baking dish.
4. Add onion, carrots, garlic, and celery to the dish with a cup of water before adding the pork.
5. Roast the pork at 450 degrees F for 20 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 325 for 1.5-2 hours depending on the weight of the roast and your desired temperature.
6. Roast the pork to an internal temperature of 145-150 degrees F for a tender and moist chop. Use a probe thermometer to ensure that you don’t overcook the meat.
7. If you like a crispy brown exterior on your pork, turn up the heat to broil for 10-15 minutes or until you’ve achieved your desired results.
8. After removing the pork from the oven, allow it to rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to be reabsorbed into the fibers of the meat.
9. Use the drippings in the baking dish as a natural au jus or add some water or stock and heat the pan on the stove, scraping the bottom of the pan to release all the delicious bits stuck to it.
10. To slice your tomahawk chops, use a sharp chef’s knife to cut through the meat, following the bone as a guide down the length of the chop. You won’t have to cut through bone.
11. Serve your tomahawk pork chops with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Resting And Serving The Perfect Tomahawk Pork Chops
Once the tomahawk pork chops are cooked to perfection, it’s important to let them rest before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop.
To rest the pork chops, transfer them to a cutting board and let them sit for at least 10 minutes. Cover them loosely with foil to keep them warm. This resting period is crucial, as it allows the meat to finish cooking and the juices to settle.
When it’s time to serve, slice the tomahawk pork chops against the grain, following the bone as a guide down the length of the chop. This will give you nice, even slices that are easy to eat. Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables.
If you want to take your tomahawk pork chops to the next level, consider adding a compound butter or sauce on top. A garlic compound butter or honey garlic sauce pairs perfectly with these flavorful chops. Simply melt the butter or sauce on top of the pork chops before serving.
