Tomato Pork Loin Chops are a tasty dish you’ll love! They feature juicy pork chops topped with a zesty tomato sauce that gives them a yummy twist. Pair it with rice or veggies for a complete meal!
Cooking this dish makes your kitchen smell amazing, and you can impress your family with just one pan! I often sneak a taste of the sauce—it’s just too good to resist! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Loin Chops: These are the star of the dish. If you can’t find loin chops, you can use bone-in or boneless pork chops. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as thinner cuts might cook faster.
Crushed Tomatoes: Canned crushed tomatoes add a rich base. If you want to make it fresh, you can use diced fresh tomatoes. Just cook them down longer to reach the right sauce consistency.
Onion & Garlic: I love using yellow or sweet onions for their flavor. If you’re short on time, you can skip the onion or use onion powder. Garlic powder can stand in for fresh garlic if needed.
Herbs: Dried oregano and basil work great, but fresh herbs are even better! If you have fresh basil or thyme, throw them in toward the end for a fresh flavor boost.
Sugar: This is optional but can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Honey or maple syrup make great substitutes if you’re looking for a more natural option.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Juicy Pork Chops?
Cooking pork chops without drying them out can be tricky! Here’s how to keep them juicy:
- Start by letting the pork chops sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. This helps to cook more evenly.
- Sear the chops in hot olive oil to create a delicious crust. Don’t overcrowd the pan; if you have to, cook in batches.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 145°F (63°C) internally. This ensures your chops are cooked but still tender.
Enjoy these tips, and your tomato pork loin chops will come out perfect every time!
How to Make Tomato Pork Loin Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 pork loin chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Fresh thyme sprigs or chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Tomato Pork Loin Chops recipe will take approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. With minimal prep time and a quick simmer, you can enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork loin chops on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This will enhance their flavor as they cook.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. After they’re cooked, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Cook the Onions:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions. Cook them until they are softened and translucent, approximately 5 minutes. The leftover flavors in the skillet will add delicious depth to the dish!
4. Add Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the onions and sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
5. Stir in Tomato Paste:
Now, stir in the tomato paste and cook for about a minute. This will deepen the flavor of the sauce.
6. Combine the Sauce Ingredients:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the dried oregano, dried basil, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and sugar (if using). Stir everything well to combine.
7. Simmer with Pork Chops:
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and return the seared pork chops back to the skillet. Nestle them into the tomato sauce so they soak up all that wonderful flavor.
8. Cook Until Done:
Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll want the pork chops to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
9. Final Touches:
Once cooked through, taste the tomato sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. A little adjustment can really make the flavors pop!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish the dish with fresh thyme sprigs or chopped parsley. Serve the tomato pork loin chops hot, spooning extra sauce over the top. They pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.
Enjoy your flavorful, juicy Tomato Pork Loin Chops!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops will add extra flavor and moisture to the dish. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may take a little longer to cook through than boneless chops.
What Can I Substitute for Crushed Tomatoes?
If you don’t have crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes or tomato sauce can work in a pinch. Just remember that diced tomatoes may need a little extra cooking time to break down for a smoother sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce from drying out.
