One-Skillet Thick-Cut Pork Chops and Veggies Meal for Busy Weeknights

LFN #36: More about my new recipe + Choosing Perfect Cuts of Pork Chops, Trimming & Seasoning them, Selecting Vegetables, the Cooking Method, and 2 bonus recipes (Right here, keep scrolling 👇)

Welcome to this week’s installment of Living Fully Nourished, where I’m sharing a balanced one-skillet meal for thick-cut pork chops and veggies with sautéed fresh asparagus and garlic toast! It’s a great meal for an easy all-in-one dinner for busy weeknights. I’m sure you’ll love it!

One-Skillet Thick-Cut Pork Chops and Veggies with Sautéed Fresh Asparagus and Garlic Toast

Always a favorite at our house, my newest recipe for Easy One-Skillet Pork Chops and Veggies served with sides of sautéed fresh asparagus and garlic toast combines savory, thick-cut seared pork chops, skin-on red potatoes, and sweet carrots in a creamy mushroom gravy sauce for a well-balanced meal without the mess. Balance out the delicious, comforting entreé with fresh asparagus that you sauté with warm spices before plating everything up with toasty garlic bread, perfect for sopping up any extra gravy or juices left on your plate. The result is a well-rounded, hearty, flavorful, and comforting meal perfect for Springtime!

It's been a while since I’ve shared a recipe starring pork chops, so this one, with its excellent combination of flavors, came up, and WOW! I’ve got to say it’s so worth sharing because it’s a convenient and delicious dish. Alone, this one-skillet thick-cut pork chops and veggies dish is incredibly comforting because it involves cooking everything in one pan, letting the flavors meld together.

With just one skillet and a few common ingredients, you can have a hearty and well-balanced meal ready in about 30 minutes. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something wholesome and satisfying but don't have the time or energy for a more elaborate meal.

The star of this meal, the pork chops, are a game-changer for me because they're a versatile cut of meat that can be elevated with simple seasonings and cooking techniques.

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Choosing the Perfect Cut of Pork Chops

When it comes to pork chops, choosing the perfect cut can make all the difference in creating a delicious and satisfying meal. There are various cuts of pork chops, each offering a unique texture and flavor profile. From the tenderloin chops to the flavorful rib chops, understanding the differences in these cuts can help you select the perfect pork chop for your meal.

One of the most popular cuts of pork chops is the loin chop. Loin chops are cut from the back of the pig and are known for their tenderness and mild flavor. They are leaner than other cuts, making them a healthy option for those looking to cut back on fat. Loin chops can be bone-in or boneless, with the bone adding extra flavor during cooking. These chops are great for quick cooking methods like grilling, pan-frying, or broiling.

Another popular option is the rib chop, also known as the ribeye chop. Rib chops are cut from the pig's rib section, characterized by its marbling and rich flavor. They are slightly fattier than loin chops, contributing to their juicy and succulent texture. Rib chops are best cooked using methods that allow the fat to render and caramelize, such as pan-searing or roasting. Bone-in rib chops are exceptionally flavorful because the bone marrow infuses the meat with additional richness.

The shoulder chop is excellent for those seeking a balance between tenderness and flavor. Shoulder chops, also known as blade chops, are cut from the shoulder of the pig and have more connective tissue than loin and rib chops. This results in a slightly tougher texture but a more profound, robust flavor. The best method for cooking shoulder chops is cooking them low and slow or braising or roasting them to break down the connective tissue and tenderize the meat. They are a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on taste.

In summary:

When choosing the perfect cut of pork chops, consider how you plan to cook them, as specific cuts are suited to various cooking methods. Loin chops are ideal for quick cooking, while rib chops excel when cooked with high heat to render the fat. Shoulder chops require more prolonged cooking, resulting in a flavorful and hearty dish. Whichever cut you choose, look for pinkish-red chops with a small amount of marbling for the best flavor and texture.

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Trimming and Seasoning the Pork Chops

Preparing the Pork Chops:

Before searing the pork chops, pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. If the chops have a thick layer of fat on the edges, consider trimming it to prevent excessive shrinkage during cooking. Additionally, using a sharp knife to score the fat around the edges of the chops can help prevent them from curling up during cooking.

How to Season the Pork Chops:

Seasoning plays a crucial role in enhancing the natural flavors of the pork chops. In this recipe, salt and pepper keep things super simple. However, a versatile seasoning blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary would increase the flavor profile even more if you're more adventurous. Sprinkle or rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops. Allow the chops to sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes before searing them to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Searing the Pork Chops to Perfection:

In this new recipe, you’ll start by searing the pork chops to a golden-brown crust, locking in their juiciness and flavor. That said, pork chops can be a challenging meat to cook perfectly. I recommend using a probe thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat to check the temperature. You want to ensure the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for optimal food safety and juiciness.

Searing:

Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat to sear the pork chops. I use butter for searing in this recipe, but a small amount of a high smoke point oil, such as grapeseed or olive oil, will also work. Once the pan is hot, carefully place the pork chops, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the chops for 2-3 minutes on each side, without moving them too much, to develop a golden-brown crust.

The Health Benefits of Butter

While butter contains high levels of saturated fat, it has been recognized for its potential health advantages. It is rich in fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which has shown positive health effects. But, you should only consume butter in moderation, as excessive saturated fat intake can elevate the risk of heart disease.

So, is butter a healthy fat?

The inclusion of butter in the diet has sparked debate in nutrition. Although it offers beneficial fat-soluble vitamins and CLA, butter is also high in saturated fats. So, consuming butter in moderation is vital to achieving a well-balanced diet.

The Calories in Butter versus Other Cooking Oils

While all oils are high in calories, butter contains fewer calories than other cooking oils. Although fats were vilified in the 80s and 90s, fats are essential to a balanced diet. But that’s not the whole story, which compromises more than enough information for another post. Until I get to summing all that up for you someday, here’s the skinny on calories in cooking oils:

• 1 tablespoon Butter = 102 calories

• 1 tablespoon Avocado Oil = 124 calories

• 1 tablespoon Canola Oil = 124 calories

• 1 tablespoon Coconut Oil = 121 calories

• 1 tablespoon Grapeseed Oil = 120 calories

• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil = 119 calories

• 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil = 120 calories

• 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil = 120 calories

• 1 tablespoon Peanut Oil = 119 calories

Resting:

After cooking, allow the pork chops to rest for five minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, producing a more tender and flavorful pork chop. When slicing the pork chop, you should observe a mostly beige interior towards the outer edges with a hint of pale pink in the center and a juicy texture.

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Selecting the Right Vegetables:

Sweet carrots and melt-in-your-mouth red potatoes add a vibrant pop of color and provide a nutritious boost to the overall meal.

After step four in my recipe, while the vegetables are cooking until they are fork-tender, 10-12 minutes is more than enough time to sauté the fresh asparagus and warm the garlic toast. Please note the recipes for these below.

The first step in preparing vegetables for cooking is selecting the right ones. Choose vegetables that are fresh, firm, and free from blemishes. Look for vegetables in season, which will be at their peak flavor and freshness. 

Washing and Cleaning:

Before you start cutting and cooking the vegetables, it is essential to wash them thoroughly. Rinse them under cold running water to remove any dirt, debris, or pesticides- using a vegetable brush to scrub the outer surface of the potatoes and carrots.

Peeling and Trimming:

Use a vegetable peeler to remove the carrots' outer skin, ensuring that only a thin layer is removed to preserve the nutrients and flavor. To add fiber and maintain as many nutrients as possible for the red potatoes, you'll leave the skins on but still trim off any bruised or damaged parts to ensure a uniform appearance and texture.

For the Sautéed Fresh Asparagus side dish, trim off any woody ends of the asparagus before cooking.

Cutting and Chopping:

How you cut your vegetables can significantly affect the cooking process and the final appearance of your dish. In this recipe, you'll cut the carrots and potatoes into relatively small, uniform pieces about 1-1/2-inch in length. Cutting the carrots and red potatoes into small bite-size pieces and wedges ensures that they look pretty when everything is ready for eating.

Depending on the recipe, you may need to cut your vegetables into specific shapes and sizes. Here are some standard cutting techniques:

- Julienne: Cut vegetables into long, thin strips.

- Dice: Cut vegetables into small, uniform cubes.

- Slice: Cut vegetables into thin, uniform pieces.

- Chiffonade: Stack leafy greens and roll them into a tight cylinder, then slice thinly.

Cooking Method:

Once your vegetables are washed, peeled, trimmed, and cut, they are ready to be cooked. In this recipe's one-skillet method, you'll be sautéing the carrots and potatoes in the same skillet as the pork chops were seared over medium heat in the reserved drippings until they soften, becoming lightly browned and slightly crisp on the outsides, about 3-5 minutes.

Then, add the creamy mushroom soup to the skillet and stir it into the vegetables. Reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid and let everything hang out, cooking until the vegetables are fork-tender, about 10-12 minutes.

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Tips to Help in Monitoring the Cooking Process

Even in preparing simple meals like this Easy One-Skillet Pork Chops and Veggies, monitoring the cooking process is a multi-faceted task that involves temperature control, timing, visual inspection, and taste testing.

Therefore, now it’s time to slow down a little. Turn on some music, pour a glass of your favorite beverage, take a deep breath, and relax as you make dinner.

Take time to pay close attention to what you're cooking. This simple step will ensure your dishes are always perfectly cooked and your dining experiences are pleasantly memorable.

Here are my best tips for your ultimate success:

Temperature Control:

Temperature control is one of the most critical aspects of monitoring the cooking process. Different dishes require specific cooking temperatures to ensure they are cooked thoroughly and retain their flavors. Using a reliable thermometer to measure the temperature of the food and the cooking environment is essential for achieving the tastiest dish possible. In addition, maintaining a consistent cooking temperature throughout the process is crucial to prevent undercooked or overcooked food.

Timing and Monitoring:

Timing is another crucial factor in monitoring the cooking process. Knowing how long each ingredient needs to cook and keeping track of the time is essential to achieving the perfect result. Overcooking can result in dry and tough meat or burnt vegetables, while undercooking can lead to foodborne illnesses. Regularly checking and monitoring the cooking process's progress is vital for adjusting the heat, time, or other factors on the fly.

Visual Inspection:

Visual inspection is also vital to monitoring the cooking process. Observing the food's color, texture, and overall appearance lets you determine if it cooks properly. For example, a golden-brown crust on a pork chop indicates it is seared to perfection, while a pale color may suggest that it needs more time on the heat. Visual cues can provide valuable insight into the progress of the cooking process and help you make informed decisions about when to adjust the cooking parameters.

Taste Testing:

My favorite part. Taste testing is the most enjoyable part of monitoring the cooking process. By sampling the food at various stages of cooking, you can quickly evaluate the flavor, seasoning, and texture to make necessary adjustments. For example, adding more salt, herbs, or spices can enhance the taste of your dish, while adjusting the cooking time can ensure that the food is tender and flavorful. Taste testing allows you, as the creator of your meal, to fine-tune your dishes and create a perfect balance of flavors.

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Serving and Enjoying this One-Skillet Thick-Cut Pork Chops and Veggies with Sautéed Fresh Asparagus and Garlic Toast Meal

If you want to create a delicious and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, you don’t need to look further than this one-skillet pork chops and veggies meal.

This dish combines tender, thick-cut pork chops with nutritious carrots and skin-on red potatoes, all cooked in one skillet. This simple yet flavorful meal will please your taste buds, family, or guests.

To start, select your ingredients. You will need thick-cut pork chops, fresh carrots, red potatoes, simple salt and pepper seasonings, and a can of gluten-free cream of mushroom soup. The beauty of this meal is that you can customize it to your liking, incorporating more of your favorite vegetables and seasonings to create a dish that suits your preferences.

Begin by seasoning the pork chops with salt and pepper. Heat some butter over medium-high heat in a large skillet and sear the pork chops until they are golden brown on both sides. This initial step helps to lock in the flavor and juices of the pork chops, ensuring that they are tender and succulent when fully cooked.

Once the pork chops are seared, set them aside on a plate and cover them with aluminum foil to keep them warm. Add the chopped vegetables to the same skillet with the reserved pork drippings. Sauté the vegetables until they are tender and slightly caramelized, adding the garlic and herbs for additional flavor if desired. Pour in the cream of mushroom soup and let everything simmer until the vegetables are fork-tender.

If you're making the sides of Sautéed Fresh Asparagus and Garlic Toast, you should have enough time to do so while everything simmers.

Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them among the vegetables, and cover the skillet to allow the ingredients to cook together and meld their flavors.

As the pork chops and vegetables finish cooking in the last few minutes, you’ll notice comforting aromas filling your kitchen with a mouthwatering scent that will make your appetite soar. Once everything is perfectly done, it is time to plate up and serve this delicious meal to your hungry eaters.

All the flavors in this meal are a winning combination. Still, the beauty of this one-skillet pork chops and veggies meal is not only in its simplicity and ease of preparation but also in its versatility. You can pair this dish with a variety of side dishes like rice or a simple, fresh garden salad to create a well-rounded meal that is both nutritious and satisfying. The combination of protein from the pork chops and an array of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables makes this meal a wholesome option for any day of the week.

Looking for a plant-based option?

You could also swap out the protein by incorporating beans or tofu in the skillet, making this dish suitable for vegetarians or anyone wanting to incorporate more plant-based options.

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Bonus recipes:

To round out this meal, you should include Sautéed Fresh Asparagus and The Best Garlic Toast as sides.

You can download the recipes below. Enjoy!