Unlocking the Flavor: A Guide to Cooking Costco’s Souvlaki Pork Chops

Costco’s thick and juicy souvlaki seasoned pork chops are a versatile ingredient just waiting to be transformed into a delicious Greek-inspired meal With their builtin Mediterranean flavors, these boneless chops can take your dinner from boring to full of vibrant, savory taste

However, to truly get the most out of Costco’s ready-to-cook pork chops, it’s important to understand how to prepare and cook them properly. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know, from initial prep to final serving, to make a mouthwatering meal with these flavor-packed pork chops every time.

Costco sells their souvlaki pork chops frozen in packs of eight approximately 1-inch thick chops. They are boneless and have been pre-marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, lemon, garlic, oregano and other Greek seasonings. This allows them to infuse the pork with flavor right off the bat.

The chops have a rich meaty taste and tender texture that takes well to further cooking. While labeled as “souvlaki”, they can be prepared using a variety of quick simple cooking methods beyond just skewers.

Their versatility makes these seasoned chops a great weekday dinner option. You can customize them into anything from Greek gyros to simple pan-seared entrees. Their built-in flavor also cuts down on prep time.

Thawing and Preparing the Pork Chops

Here are some tips for prepping Costco’s souvlaki pork chops before cooking:

• Thaw properly: To avoid food safety risks, thaw frozen chops gradually in the refrigerator over 24-36 hours. Do not thaw at room temperature.

• Use within timeline: Once thawed, the chops should be cooked within 3-5 days. Freeze any you won’t use in time.

• Trim excess fat: Use a sharp knife to trim off any large sections of visible fat if desired. Leave a bit for moisture.

• Pat dry: Dry chops with paper towels to remove exterior moisture that can inhibit browning.

• Add seasoning: The chops are pre-flavored but you can add more dry spices like garlic powder, oregano, pepper.

• Consider marinating: For extra moisture and flavor, marinate chops in oil, lemon juice, herbs for 1-2 hours.

With these simple prep steps, the pork chops are ready to be cooked into tender, flavor-packed meals.

Grilling for Maximum Flavor

One of the best cooking methods to try with souvlaki seasoned pork chops is grilling. The high heat of the grill sears the outside while locking in juices. Charred grill marks also provide great texture and flavor.

To grill Costco pork chops:

• Heat gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F.

• Clean grates and brush with oil to prevent sticking.

• Sear chops over direct heat for 2-3 minutes per side.

• Move to indirect heat and grill for 8-12 minutes more, flipping halfway, until internal temperature reaches 145°F.

• Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

You can also marinate chops in lemon juice, oil, garlic and oregano for 1-2 hours beforehand for more moisture and Greek flavor. Grilled pork chops pair great with tzatziki sauce, tomato salad or roasted veggies.

Pan Searing for Quick Meals

Pan searing is a fast and easy way to cook Costco’s seasoned pork chops for a weekday dinner:

• Pat chops dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder.

• Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

• Add chops and cook 4-5 minutes per side until browned.

• Reduce heat to medium and cook another 5-7 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F.

• Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

To make it a complete Greek meal, try adding caramelized onions, diced tomatoes or spinach to the skillet. Serve with roasted potatoes or rice pilaf and a Greek salad.

Baking for Convenient Hands-off Cooking

For fuss-free cooking, baked pork chops are a great option. To bake:

• Preheat oven to 400°F.

• Place chops on a baking sheet or in a baking dish.

• Bake for 20 minutes, flip, then bake 15 minutes more until internal temperature reaches 145°F.

• Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

If desired, brush with olive oil and seasonings before baking. Pair with baked vegetables like potatoes, zucchini or eggplant.

Sous Vide for Super Tender Results

For the juiciest, most tender texture, try sous vide cooking:

• Season chops and seal in sous vide bags with any marinade.

• Cook at 135°F for 2-4 hours depending on thickness.

• Remove chops from bags and pat dry.

• Quickly sear the exterior of the chops in a hot skillet before serving.

The low and slow sous vide cooking followed by a sear gives you incredible tenderness while enhancing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Costco’s ready-made souvlaki pork chops shine when served with bright, fresh Mediterranean flavors:

• Pile into warm pita bread with tzatziki sauce, tomato and red onion for Greek gyros.

• Serve with lemon rice pilaf and sautéed spinach with garlic.

• Top a Greek salad of cucumbers, olives, tomatoes and feta cheese.

• Pair with grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant and bell peppers.

• Add to bowls with herbed farro, chickpeas and diced cucumber.

With their pre-marinated flavor, these versatile pork chops make it easy to create fast, fresh Greek-inspired meals any night of the week.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Leftover pork chops can be stored safely:

• Allow chops to cool completely, then store in an airtight container.

• Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and use within 3-4 days.

• Frozen leftovers can keep for 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat pork chops, use one of these methods:

• Microwave: Reheat on a microwave-safe plate, covered, for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

• Oven: Bake chops on a lined baking sheet at 375°F for 10-15 minutes until hot internally.

• Skillet: Add a bit of water or oil to a skillet and cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side.

With proper storage and reheating, you can enjoy convenient meals from these flavorful chops all week long.

Tips for the Best Results

Follow these tips for cooking success with Costco’s souvlaki pork chops:

• Always thaw slowly in the fridge before cooking.

• Pat chops dry thoroughly before searing or grilling to help browning.

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the interior reaches 145°F when cooked.

• Allow chops to rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting to retain juices.

• Avoid overcooking or the chops will become dry. Cook to just 145°F internally.

• Add extra moisture by brining or marinating prior to cooking.

• Sear, grill or broil the chops for caramelization and flavor.

With proper handling, these easy ready-to-cook pork chops can truly shine at dinnertime.

Endless Possibilities with Souvlaki Pork Chops

Costco’s seasoned souvlaki pork chops offer incredible convenience. With their Mediterranean zesty flavor, all you need to do is open the pack and choose your preferred cooking method.

Grilled, baked, pan seared or sous vide – the possibilities are endless. Just sear and serve alongside fresh veggies and Greek flavors for an easy yet impressive meal.

So pick up a pack of these versatile chops on your next Costco trip. With proper cooking, you can unlock their full potential and enjoy tender, flavorful quick meals all week long.