Pork chops are a popular and versatile cut of meat that come from the loin section of the pig. The loin is divided into different sections, each resulting in chops with slightly different characteristics. Center cut pork chops are sometimes also referred to as center rib chops or loin chops.
What Are Center Cut Pork Chops?
Center cut pork chops come from the center of the loin primal cut, which runs from the shoulder through the hip. They contain a part of the backbone and are richly marbled with fat, making them juicy and flavorful. Center cut chops include a rib bone on one side that has been frenched or cleaned of meat and fat.
The center cut is considered the prime portion of the loin due to its tenderness. Since these chops contain loin and rib meat, they are more substantial than other types of pork chops. Center cut chops are typically wider and thicker than chops from the sirloin or shoulder end of the loin.
Other Names for Center Cut Pork Chops
Center cut pork chops may also be referred to by several other common names, including:
- Center rib chops
- Rib chops
- Loin chops
- Pork rib chops
- Bone-in pork chops
These names all refer to the same cut – chops from the center of the pork loin that contain a portion of the backbone and rib meat. The terms center cut, center rib, rib chop, and loin chop are the most precise in describing this specific chop.
Characteristics of Center Cut Pork Chops
Center cut pork chops have the following distinguishing characteristics:
- Cut from the center section of the pork loin primal
- Contain a rib bone on one side that has been frenched
- Have loin eye muscle and rib meat
- Are thicker and wider than other loin chops
- Are very tender and juicy due to fat marbling
Identifying center cut chops is easy when you know what to look for. The presence of a rib bone sets them apart from other loin chops. They will also be the thickest chops available from the loin.
Benefits of Center Cut Pork Chops
There are several benefits that set center cut pork chops apart from other types of chops:
- Flavor – The combination of loin and rib meat gives these chops exceptionally robust, juicy pork flavor.
- Tenderness – Coming from the loin, they are much more tender than chops from the shoulder or sirloin.
- Moisture – Fat marbling results in a juicy, moist texture when cooked.
- Appearance – Thick and substantial with attractive fat marbling.
- Versatility – Their thickness allows them to be cooked by grilling, pan frying, broiling, and baking.
For the best quality pork chop experience, most chefs and cooks recommend splurging on center cut chops over other types of chops. The extra flavor and tenderness is worth the slightly higher cost.
Prices of Center Cut Pork Chops
On average, center cut pork chops cost slightly more per pound than sirloin chops or chops from the shoulder end of the loin. Here are typical price ranges:
- Center cut bone-in pork chops: $7-$12 per pound
- Boneless center cut chops: $9-$14 per pound
- Sirloin pork chops: $5-$9 per pound
- Shoulder boneless pork chops: $6-$10 per pound
Of course, prices can vary depending on the seller, quality, and geographical region. Grocery stores, butcher shops, and specialty markets usually carry center cut pork chops. It is also possible to buy them in bulk from wholesalers or online retailers to save money.
Selecting High Quality Center Cut Pork Chops
When selecting center cut pork chops, choose those with the following characteristics:
- At least 1 inch thick
- Bright pink color
- Smooth, firm white fat cap
- Good marbling throughout
- No graying or dry spots
Chops that are too thin will cook too quickly and be prone to drying out. The lean should be nicely colored and the fat cap moist and fresh-looking. Marbling is the thin streaks of fat throughout the meat that make it tender and flavorful when cooked. Avoid any chops with an off smell or color.
How to Cook Center Cut Pork Chops
Center cut pork chops are versatile and pair well with many different seasonings, sauces, and sides. Here are some recommended cooking methods:
Pan Frying
Pan fry seasoned chops over medium-high heat for 4-7 minutes per side until browned and just cooked through. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Grilling
Grill chops over direct medium heat for about 5 minutes per side. Move to indirect heat, close grill lid, and continue cooking approximately 5-7 more minutes until done.
Baking
Bake chops at 425°F for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F. Basting with butter or olive oil will keep chops moist.
Broiling
Broil chops 4-5 inches from heat for 9-12 minutes, flipping once. Broil thin chops for 2-3 minutes per side and thicker chops longer.
The safest internal temperature for cooked pork is 145°F, followed by a 3 minute rest. Use a meat thermometer for the most accurate doneness. Do not overcook pork or it will become dry.
Serving Ideas and Popular Recipes
Center cut pork chops have a mild flavor and pair well with many cuisines and ingredients. Here are some delicious ways to serve them:
- Apple pork chops – Top pan fried chops with sautéed apples and onions.
- Pork chop sheets and cheese – Baked with bacon, veggies, and cheese sauce.
- Balsamic glazed pork chops – Grilled chops glazed with balsamic vinegar and brown sugar.
- Cajun spiced pork chops – Blackened seasoned chops served with dirty rice.
- Teriyaki pork chops – Marinated and grilled with peppers and pineapple.
From Italian to Mexican to Asian, center cut pork chops take well to endless flavors. They pair nicely with mashed or baked potatoes, rice, quinoa, pasta, or salad greens. Roasting or grilling brings out their robust taste.
Nutrition Facts
Center cut pork chops are an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. A 3.5 ounce serving provides:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Protein | 24 g |
| Cholesterol | 65 mg |
| Iron | 1 mg |
| Potassium | 350 mg |
| Zinc | 2 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.5 mg |
| Niacin | 4 mg |
Pork is high in thiamin, selenium, phosphorus, and vitamin B12 as well. As long as portions are controlled, center cut pork chops can be part of a healthy diet.
Should You Buy Bone-In or Boneless?
Center cut pork chops are available both bone-in and boneless. Here is a comparison:
| Bone-In | Boneless | |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor | More intense, juicy | Still flavorful |
| Appearance | Rustic, attractive bone | Elegant, uniform |
| Convenience | Require more prep work | More convenience |
| Cooking method | Best for grilling or pan frying | Works for all methods |
| Price | Usually lesser per pound | Higher per pound |
In the end, it comes down to personal cooking and eating preferences. You can’t go wrong with either choice. Bone-in chops have bolder pork flavor while boneless are easier to cook and eat.
Storing Pork Chops
Raw pork chops should be stored properly to ensure food safety and quality. Follow these tips:
- Keep raw pork chops in the coldest part of the refrigerator, at 40°F or below.
- Place in a container or sealed bag to prevent cross-contamination with other foods.
- Use fresh chops within 3-5 days of purchase for best flavor and texture.
- For longer storage, freeze chops in an airtight freezer bag up to 4-6 months at 0°F.
- Never thaw frozen pork at room temperature. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Cook or freeze chops within 1-2 days of thawing.
With proper refrigeration and freezing methods, you can enjoy center cut pork chops safely for maximum freshness and flavor.
Common Questions
Are center cut pork chops lean?
Compared to chops from the shoulder or sirloin end, center cut chops have more marbling or internal fat. However, the lean to fat ratio is still favorable. When trimmed of excess surface fat, they are a leaner choice than lamb, beef ribs, or dark chicken meat.
Can pork chops be grilled frozen?
It is safest to thaw pork chops before grilling to ensure even cooking. Grilling frozen chops can lead to undercooking the interior while overcharring the outside. If needed in a pinch, frozen chops can be grilled on medium or indirect heat for a longer time.
Should pork chops be butterflied?
Butterflying pork chops by slicing them horizontally creates thinner, uniform pieces that cook faster. This can be done for pan frying or grilling quick cooking chops. However, butterflying is not necessary for thicker center cut chops which can stay juicier when cooked whole.
What’s the difference between ribeye and center cut pork chops?
Pork ribeye chops come from the rib section and contain a round eye of tenderloin muscle. Center cut chops are from farther back on the loin by the backbone. Both are premium quality chops but center cut contains loin meat while ribeye is all rib meat.
Conclusion
Center cut pork chops, also called center rib, rib, and loin chops, represent the prime cut from the pork loin. Their tenderness, flavor, and versatility make them a smart choice compared to other chops. While quick cooking methods like grilling, pan frying, and broiling are excellent, center cut chops can be used in all recipes calling for bone-in or boneless pork chops.
Knowing the characteristics, cooking options, and storage recommendations for center cut pork chops makes it easy to select, prepare, and serve them at their best. When managed properly, these succulent, meaty chops always deliver incredibly delicious results.