Grilling is one of my favorite ways to cook Duroc pork chops, especially during the warmer months. The smoky flavor you get from the grill adds an irresistible depth to the meat. Here’s how I do it:

Preheat your grill: Make sure the grill is nice and hot, around 400°F (200°C). This ensures a quick sear, locking in all the juices.

Prep the pork chops: Lightly season your Duroc pork chops with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. For extra flavor, you can add garlic, rosemary, or thyme.

Grill the chops: Place the pork chops on the grill and cook them for about 4-5 minutes per side. Depending on thickness, they may need an additional few minutes to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Rest before serving: Let the chops rest for about 5 minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute. This will ensure a tender, juicy bite.

If you’re craving a crispy, golden crust with a tender interior, pan-searing is the way to go. The hot pan creates a beautiful sear while keeping the inside of the pork chop perfectly cooked. Here's how I do it:

Choose a heavy pan: A cast-iron skillet works best for this method because it holds and distributes heat evenly.

Sear the pork: Heat a tablespoon of oil in the pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.

Finish with butter and herbs: For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of butter, crushed garlic cloves, and a few sprigs of thyme to the pan during the last minute of cooking. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the pork chops to baste them. This will keep them juicy and flavorful.

Check the temperature: The pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to be sure.

Baking Duroc pork chops is perfect for those days when you want a hands-off approach to cooking. The oven ensures even cooking while allowing the pork to retain its moisture. Here’s my go-to method for baking:

Turn the oven on and adjust to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures the pork cooks through without drying out.

Season the pork: Rub the pork chops with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your choice of seasonings. You can even add a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne pepper for a little heat.

Bake the chops: Place the pork chops on a baking sheet and cook for about 20-25 minutes. For a beautiful golden finish, you can broil them for the last 2 minutes.

Rest before serving: Let the chops rest for 5 minutes after removing them from the oven. This gives the juices time to redistribute, making each bite juicy and flavorful.

No matter which cooking method you choose, remember the key to perfectly cooked Duroc pork chops is not to overcook them. Duroc pork is naturally tender, and cooking it to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) will ensure the meat is juicy and flavorful. For the best outcome, be sure to use a meat thermometer!