Tomahawk Pork Chop Recipe (8 Favorite Dishes to Try With)

Iva Carter
Published by Iva Carter
Last Updated On: December 5, 2023

The ability to transform simple ingredients such as tomahawk pork chops, soy sauce, and a medley of seasonings into a symphony of flavors is a craft that I have meticulously cultivated over the past three years.

As a seasoned home chef, I'm proud to share my favorite tomahawk pork chop recipe with you.

This easy recipe has a dry rub with simple seasoning to get the best results from this particular cut of meat.

If you're ready to embark on your culinary journey and explore the world of premium meats, we invite you to check out our comprehensive review of top-notch meat delivery services.

Tomahawk Pork Chops Recipe

Raw Tomahawk Pork Chop

Recipe Overview

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Servings: 4

Ingredients

Pork Chops

  • 4 pork tomahawk chops (bone-in, about 1 ½ inches thick)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Dry Rub

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)

Compound Butter

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Tomahawk Pork Chop in a pan
  1. In a small bowl, prepare the compound butter by combining the softened butter, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stirring occasionally, mix well, and set aside or refrigerate until needed.
  2. Pat the tomahawk pork chops dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
  3. Season the pork chops generously with a dry rub of kosher salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Press the seasoning into the meat to ensure it adheres properly. Let the chops rest at room temperature for 10 minutes. Cover with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator overnight for more flavor.
  4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for direct heat grilling.
  5. Place the seasoned tomahawk pork chops on the hot grill grates. Sear each side for 3-4 minutes to create a nice crust and grill marks.
  6. After they are seared, move the pork chops to indirect heat (medium-high heat) and continue cooking with the grill lid closed. Cook pork chops until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (medium-rare) or desired doneness, usually about 20-25 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chops.
  7. While the tomahawk chops are cooking, you can brush them with a seasoning mixture that combines soy sauce and olive oil.
  8. Once the internal temperature reaches your desired level, remove the perfectly cooked chops from the grill and let them rest for 10 minutes on a cutting board prior to slicing. While resting, add a dollop of compound butter to each pork chop while they continue carry-over cooking.
  9. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs before serving.

Recipe Notes

Grilled Tomahawk Pork Chop
  • You can refrigerate leftover tomahawk pork chops for up to 3 days. You can eat it cold straight from the fridge or reheat it to 160°F [1].
  • The compound butter adds extra flavor and juiciness to the tomahawk pork chops. You can also customize the compound butter by adding your favorite herbs and spices.
  • Ensure these bone-in pork chops are at room temperature before grilling for even cooking.
  • Cooking time may vary depending on your grill and the thickness of the chops. Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check for the desired level of doneness.
  • In order to allow the juices to redistribute after cooking these chops, ensure they rest before you serve them.
  • If you prefer, you can also perform reverse searing on the tomahawk pork chops by cooking them at a low temperature in the oven until they reach the desired internal temperature and then searing them on a hot skillet or grill to finish.
  • You can also preheat a skillet over medium heat, place the pork chops in the hot skillet, and cook for 6-8 minutes per side. You want the internal temperature to reach 145°F [2].
  • You may want to create a honey/soy sauce glaze for these chops. Simply simmer honey, soy sauce, and fresh minced garlic in a pan until thickened. Then ladle on top of the food.

Nutrition

  • Serving: 1 tomahawk chop
  • Calories: 425
  • Total Carbs: 2g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Fat: 29g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Net Carbs: 2g

"The key when you cook tomahawk pork chops lies in understanding the balance of heat and time. You want that perfect seared look on the outside while ensuring the internal temperature reaches just the right level - whether on the grill, pan, or oven."

- Ferran Adria, Spanish Chef

What To Serve with Tomahawk Pork Chops?

Grilled vegetables

Here is a list of dishes and favorite sides that would complement the tomahawk pork chops:

  1. Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, pair well with rich and flavorful pork chops. The smoky char from the grill enhances the overall taste and adds a contrasting texture to the tender meat.
  2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and garlicky mashed potatoes provide a comforting and hearty side to balance the savory flavors of the pork chops. The buttery texture complements the juicy meat and adds a delightful contrast.
  3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Roasted sweet potatoes offer a slightly sweet and nutty taste that complements the savory and smoky taste of the pork chops. They add a touch of natural sweetness to the dish.
  4. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob is a classic summer side that pairs well with grilled meats. The smoky and slightly charred kernels add a delightful pop of taste and texture to the pork chop.
  5. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw with a tangy dressing provides a cool and crunchy contrast to the rich and flavorful pork chops. The combination of textures and flavors makes for a well-rounded meal.
  6. Green Salad with Vinaigrette: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the pork chops. The fresh and crisp greens add a refreshing element to the plate.
  7. Baked Beans: The sweet and savory flavors of baked beans complement the smoky flavors of the grilled pork chops. This classic pairing is a crowd-pleaser.
  8. Garlic Butter Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms in garlic butter add a savory and earthy element to the meal. The umami-rich mushrooms enhance the overall flavor profile of the pork chops.

Also Read: What Is a Tomahawk Steak?

FAQs

What Part of Pork Does Tomahawk Come From?

Tomahawk comes from the rib section of the pig. They are the equivalent of bone-in ribeye steaks in beef with an elongated bone. Instead of a steak, this bone-in pork chop resembles a tomahawk axe handle.

Is a Tomahawk Pork Chop Fatty?

Yes, a tomahawk pork chop is fatty. They are known for their generous marbling and fat content compared to regular pork chops. This intramuscular fat and a layer of pork belly contribute to the chop's juiciness and flavor during grilling, making it a sought-after cut among meat enthusiasts.

Are Tomahawk Pork Chops Expensive?

Yes, tomahawk pork chops are expensive. Like other premium cuts of meat, they tend to be on the pricier side compared to more common cuts a home cook usually uses. The unique presentation, tenderness, and intense flavor contribute to the higher price point.


References:

  1. https://ask.usda.gov/s/article/How-long-can-you-store-pork
  2. https://ask.usda.gov/s/article/To-what-temperature-should-I-cook-pork
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About the author

Iva Carter
Associate Editor
As a foodie and blogger, Iva loves to share delicious yet quick dinner recipes. When she's not in the kitchen concocting meaty delights, you'll find her playing with her dog, Sylvie.
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