Waffle House Pork Chops Recipe

A sizzling, well-seasoned pork chop straight off the griddle? That’s Waffle House at its best!

The secret is a simple but highly effective seasoning blend that brings out all the rich, savory notes in the meat.

I always use bone-in pork chops because they hold onto moisture better, keeping them from drying out.

Letting them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before cooking helps them cook evenly.

A hot cast-iron pan is non-negotiable—it mimics that flat-top sear you’d get at Waffle House.

Once they hit the pan, they need to stay put so they develop that deep brown crust before flipping.

Resting them for a few minutes after cooking lets the juices settle so every bite is as tender as possible.

How to Make Waffle House Pork Chops

Ingredients

• 4 Pork Chops
• 1 cup Buttermilk
• 1 cup Flour
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
• 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Begin by marinating the pork chops in buttermilk for at least two hours to tenderize the meat and infuse flavor.

Allow them to soak in a zip-top bag in the refrigerator.

Step 2:

Mix the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in a shallow dish.

Coat each pork chop thoroughly in the flour mixture.

Step 3:

Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.

Once the oil is hot, carefully place pork chops in the skillet.

Step 4:

Cook the chops for 4-5 minutes per side, ensuring a golden-brown finish and internal temperature of 145°F.

Remove from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes.

Step 5:

Serve with your favorite side dishes or on top of homemade waffles for a comforting meal.

Enjoy immediately.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choose the Right Chops

Using thick-cut, bone-in pork chops will give you juicier results, as they hold moisture better during cooking.

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

Cooking the pork chops in batches will help them sear evenly, providing a nice crust on each piece without steaming.

Rest the Chops

Let the pork chops rest for at least five minutes after cooking so the juices redistribute for the most tender bite.

Marinate Longer If Possible

For even more tenderness and flavor, consider marinating the pork chops overnight in the buttermilk.

This additional marinating time makes a noticeable difference.

Use a Thermometer

Using a meat thermometer ensures your pork chops reach the ideal internal temperature without overcooking, helping retain their juicy texture.

What to Serve with Waffle House Pork Chops

Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a comforting side that pairs well with the savory taste of Waffle House pork chops.

You can add a touch of garlic butter or sprinkle some chives on top for extra flavor.

The creamy texture complements the pork beautifully, making it a traditional pairing that never disappoints.

Lemon Roasted Asparagus

For a bright and refreshing side dish, lemon roasted asparagus is a great choice.

The zesty lemon flavor adds a pop that brightens up the meal and complements the pork chops perfectly.

Roast them until they’re tender, then squeeze some fresh lemon juice for an added zing.

Creamed Corn

Creamed corn brings a touch of sweetness to your meal, and it’s simple to put together.

Add a sprinkle of paprika or a dash of hot sauce if you want to spice things up a bit.

Garlic Bok Choy

If you’re looking for something a bit more unique, try garlic bok choy as a side dish.

It brings a crisp freshness to your meal, with bold flavors of garlic that mingle well with pork chops.

Stir-fry it quickly to keep that delightful crunch, and you’ll have a side that’s both tasty and healthy.

Pineapple Salsa

Pineapple salsa is an unexpected but delicious side that adds a sweet and tangy element.

The combination of pineapple, cilantro, red onion, and a hint of jalapeño creates an exciting mix that enhances the pork’s flavor.

Whether grilled or pan-fried, Waffle House pork chops find a new companion in this vibrant salsa.

Variations and Substitutions

Waffle Ingredients

If you want to switch up the waffle recipe, using different types of flour like almond or oat can be a tasty twist.

You might also try adding a handful of chopped nuts or some shredded cheese for extra flavor and texture.

You can even swap milk with buttermilk, which will provide a richer, tangy taste.

Pork Chop Coatings

For a lighter option, you could use whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of flour to coat the pork chops.

Another great substitution is panko, which gives the pork an extra crispy texture.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, add crushed cornflakes to the mix for a fun crunchy alternative.

Seasoning Adjustments

Feel free to mix and match spices according to your preferences.

If you’re a fan of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the seasoning for a spicy kick.

For a touch of sweetness, mix in a touch of cinnamon with your spice blend.

How to Store Leftover Waffle House Pork Chops

Storing leftover Waffle House pork chops properly can keep them fresh and safe to eat.

You’ll want to start by placing the pork chops in an airtight container; this keeps unwanted moisture and bacteria out.

Refrigerate your container in the coldest part of your fridge, which is usually at the back, to keep the pork chops at a safe temperature.

If you’re planning to consume them within the next few days, this should suffice.

Longer Storage Methods

For those who want to keep leftover pork chops for more than a few days, the freezer is your best friend.

Wrap each pork chop tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.

Label the bag with the date to help you keep track of freshness.

Important Storage Tips

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, first check for any signs of spoilage.

If they don’t smell right or have an unusual texture, it’s best to stay on the safe side.

Proper storage ensures your delicious pork chops remain tasty and safe to eat!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Pork Chops

If you cook your pork chops too long, they become dry!

Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

You should aim for 145°F as the safe internal temperature for juicy results.

Skipping the Rest Time

Don’t forget to let your chops rest after cooking.

This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat.

Leave them on a plate for about five minutes before serving.

Not Seasoning Enough

Without enough seasoning, your pork chops might taste bland.

Before cooking, sprinkle both sides generously with salt and pepper.

Consider marinating them for a while to boost flavor even more!