Pork ribeye chops are a delicious and tender cut of meat that can be easily prepared in the oven for a quick weeknight dinner or impressive weekend meal With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have restaurant-quality chops on the table in under 30 minutes In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to cook pork ribeye chops in the oven perfectly every time.
What Are Pork Ribeye Chops?
Pork ribeye chops also sometimes called pork rib chops are cut from the rib section of the pig, just above the loin. This area contains the ribeye muscle, which is marbled with fat, making the chops extra flavorful and juicy when cooked properly.
Compared to other pork chops like loin or shoulder chops, ribeye chops tend to be the most tender and moist due to their fat content. They have a distinctive rich, beefy taste that makes them ideal for oven roasting or grilling. When buying pork ribeye chops, look for chops that are 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick for the best results.
Benefits of Cooking Pork Ribeye Chops in the Oven
There are several advantages to cooking pork ribeye chops in the oven rather than pan frying or grilling them.
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Requires minimal preparation – simply season the chops and pop them in the oven. No need to closely monitor them while they cook.
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Produces tender, succulent meat by slowly roasting the chops to the perfect internal temperature.
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Allows you to cook multiple chops at once, perfect for feeding a family.
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Easy to get a browned, caramelized exterior by preheating the oven and using a broiler.
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No need for added oil, keeping the chops healthier than pan frying.
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Hands-off cooking leaves you free to prepare side dishes or relax while dinner cooks.
Step-by-Step Guide to Oven-Roasted Pork Ribeye Chops
Follow these simple steps for pork ribeye chops with a crispy browned exterior and juicy, flavorful interior.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork ribeye chops, 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This relatively low roasting temperature will ensure even cooking and a tender interior.
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Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Make sure they are thoroughly dried for proper browning.
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Coat the chops with oil on both sides, using about 1/2 tablespoon per chop. The oil facilitates browning and keeps the meat moist.
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Season the chops on both sides with the minced garlic, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasonings into the meat.
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Arrange the chops on a baking sheet or pan. Space them at least 1/2 inch apart to allow air circulation.
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Roast for 15-18 minutes, until an instant-read thermometer inserted sideways into the thickest part of a chop reads 145°F.
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Broil for 2-3 minutes to brown and crisp the exterior, if desired. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
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Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. The internal temperature will rise about 5°F as the chops rest.
And that’s it! Perfectly juicy, flavorful oven-roasted pork ribeye chops. The total hands-on prep time is just 10 minutes for a meal that looks and tastes like you fussed over it.
Choosing the Right Pan
The type of pan you use can make a difference in how evenly and thoroughly the pork chops cook. Here are some top options:
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Rimmed Baking Sheet: Allows air circulation for even cooking. Place chops directly on the pan.
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Wire Rack: Promotes air flow and drainage of fat underneath. Set over a rimmed baking sheet.
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Broiler Pan: Perforated top browns the surface while fat drains away.
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Cast Iron Skillet: Produces excellent browning. Preheat before adding chops.
Internal Temperature
It’s crucial to cook pork properly to an internal temperature of 145°F as measured with an instant-read thermometer. This kills any potential bacteria while maintaining moisture.
Chops cooked below 140°F run the risk of containing pink, undercooked pork. Overcooking above 160°F will yield dry, tough meat.
For food safety, allow the cooked chops to rest for 3 minutes before taking the temperature. Insert the thermometer sideways into the thickest part, away from bone.
Add Flavor With a Dry Brine or Marinade
In addition to basic seasoning, you can infuse pork ribeye chops with more flavor using a dry brine or marinade.
A dry brine involves rubbing the chops with salt and allowing them to rest for at least 15-30 minutes before cooking. The salt amplifies moisture and seasoning penetration.
With a marinade, soak the chops for 30 minutes up to overnight in the fridge in a zip-top bag. Try flavorful ingredients like garlic, brown sugar, soy sauce, citrus, or spices. Pat the chops dry before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Oven-roasted pork ribeye chops pair wonderfully with all kinds of sides:
- Garlic mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli
- Buttery egg noodles or pasta
- Rice pilaf or baked beans
- Fresh green salad
A bright, acidic pan sauce is also a delicious way to finish the chops. Deglaze the roasting pan with chicken broth, lemon juice, vinegar, or wine, and simmer to reduce. Spoon the concentrated sauce over the rested chops just before serving.
Common Questions
How long does it take to cook pork ribeye chops in the oven?
- 1 to 1 1/2 inch thick chops take 15-18 minutes in a 375°F oven. Thinner chops may only need 12 minutes.
Should the oven be preheated first?
- Yes, always preheat the oven fully before cooking pork chops. This helps them brown and cook evenly.
Is it better to cook bone-in or boneless ribeye chops?
- Bone-in chops hold their shape and juice better during cooking. Boneless are quicker cooking but can dry out more easily.
Can I stuff pork ribeye chops?
- Yes, stuffing pork chops makes for an elegant presentation. Use a spoon or knife to gently create a pocket, avoiding going all the way through.
What are the best seasonings for oven roasted pork chops?
- Garlic, thyme, rosemary, sage, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and fennel seeds all pair wonderfully with pork.
What should I do if my pork chops are overcooked and dry?
- Try slicing or chopping the meat and incorporating it into tacos, nachos, fried rice, pasta, or soup to add moisture.
The Takeaway
Cooking pork ribeye chops in the oven is one of the easiest and most foolproof ways to enjoy this flavorful, boneless cut. Preheating the oven, using an accurate meat thermometer, and allowing the chops to rest before serving are keys to perfection. With just a simple seasoning and 15-20 minutes of hands-off oven time, you can look forward to tender, juicy chops that never disappoint.