Outback Steakhouse is renowned for its savory dishes, and their grilled pork chops are no exception. Juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, these pork chops make for a fantastic entrée whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a family dinner. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to recreate the famous Outback Steakhouse pork chop recipe at home, with simple ingredients and expert techniques. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe will help you achieve restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen.
What You’ll Need for Outback Steakhouse Pork Chop Recipe
Before we start the cooking process, it’s important to have all the ingredients and tools ready. This will make your cooking experience more efficient and enjoyable.
Ingredients:
- Pork chops (bone-in or boneless): Thick-cut pork chops (1 to 1.5 inches) work best for this recipe.
- Olive oil: For marinating and grilling.
- Garlic (minced): Fresh garlic enhances the marinade’s flavor.
- Soy sauce: Adds a savory umami taste to the marinade.
- Brown sugar: Balances the savory elements with a hint of sweetness.
- Mustard (Dijon or yellow): Gives the pork a slight tang and depth of flavor.
- Worcestershire sauce: A key ingredient that adds a rich, savory kick.
- Apple cider vinegar: Helps tenderize the pork and add a subtle tang.
- Paprika: Provides a smoky, mild heat.
- Salt and pepper: For seasoning the pork chops before grilling.
Tools and Equipment:
- Grill or grill pan: For achieving the perfect char on your pork chops.
- Tongs: Essential for flipping the pork chops without piercing the meat.
- Basting brush: To apply the marinade during grilling for enhanced flavor.
- Instant-read thermometer: To check the internal temperature of the pork chops.
- Mixing bowls: For preparing the marinade.
Pro Tips for Picking Quality Ingredients:
- Pork chops: Look for pork chops with a nice marbling of fat, which helps keep the meat juicy during grilling. Bone-in pork chops tend to be more flavorful, but boneless is an excellent option for easier eating.
- Soy sauce: Use a low-sodium soy sauce to control the salt content. This is especially important if you’re marinating for a longer period.
- Brown sugar: Dark brown sugar adds a deeper molasses flavor, while light brown sugar provides a milder sweetness.
Step-by-Step Guide to Outback Steakhouse Pork Chop Recipe
With your ingredients and tools ready, it’s time to start cooking! This guide will take you through each step, ensuring your pork chops come out perfectly cooked and flavorful.
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 3 cloves of minced garlic
- 1/4 cup of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Whisk the ingredients together until fully combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Pork Chops
- Place the pork chops in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the pork chops, ensuring they are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let the pork chops marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful and tender they will become.
Step 3: Preheat Your Grill
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F). If you’re using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are evenly spread for consistent cooking.
- If using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat until hot.
Step 4: Grill the Pork Chops
- Remove the pork chops from the marinade, letting the excess drip off, but don’t discard the marinade yet.
- Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the pork chops for 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness. For bone-in chops, grill closer to 6-7 minutes per side.
- Use a basting brush to apply more marinade to the pork chops during grilling for added moisture and flavor.
- The pork chops are done when the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). An instant-read thermometer is your best tool for ensuring they’re cooked perfectly without overcooking.
Step 5: Rest the Pork Chops
- Once the pork chops are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Not marinating long enough: For the best flavor, marinate the pork chops for at least 1 hour. If you’re short on time, marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes, but longer is always better.
- Overcooking: Pork can dry out quickly if overcooked. Using a meat thermometer ensures you hit the right temperature without sacrificing juiciness.
- Skipping the resting time: Letting the pork chops rest is crucial for keeping them moist. Cutting into them right away will release the juices too quickly.
Pro Tips from Experienced Cooks
To elevate your pork chops to restaurant-quality, here are some expert tips:
- Sear for extra flavor: Start by searing the pork chops on high heat for 1-2 minutes per side to create a flavorful crust, then reduce the heat to medium to finish cooking.
- Use a reverse sear method: For thicker pork chops, you can use a reverse sear method. Cook the chops on indirect heat (low heat) until they reach an internal temperature of 135°F, then finish them on high heat for a crispy exterior.
- Brining before marinating: If you have time, brine the pork chops in a simple saltwater solution (4 cups water, 1/4 cup salt) for 1-2 hours before marinating. This helps keep the pork chops even more juicy and tender.
Conclusion and Key Takeaways
Cooking Outback Steakhouse-style pork chops at home is easier than you think. With the right marinade, cooking technique, and a few expert tips, you can achieve restaurant-quality results every time. The rich flavors from the soy sauce, garlic, and brown sugar balance beautifully with the smokiness from the grill, making this a dish that’s sure to impress.
Key Takeaways:
- Marinating for at least 1 hour (up to 24 hours) is key to flavorful pork chops.
- Grilling at medium-high heat ensures a perfect balance of char and tenderness.
- Resting the pork chops after grilling keeps them juicy and tender.
Don’t forget to share your cooking experiences in the comments below! If you have any questions or variations, feel free to ask. We’d love to hear how your Outback Steakhouse pork chops turned out!
FAQs
1. Can I cook these pork chops in the oven instead of grilling?
Yes, you can bake the pork chops in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, depending on the thickness. For best results, sear them in a pan first to develop a nice crust.
2. Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops work just as well and are easier to eat. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as boneless chops cook a little faster.
3. How long should I marinate the pork chops?
For best results, marinate the pork chops for at least 1 hour. For a deeper flavor, marinate overnight (up to 24 hours).
4. What’s the ideal internal temperature for pork chops?
The USDA recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for a juicy and tender result.
5. Can I freeze the pork chops after marinating?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated pork chops in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.