Can You Use Old Bay Seasoning on Pork Chops?

Pork chops are a quick, easy, and delicious dinner option. But eating the same plain old pork chop night after night can get boring fast That’s where Old Bay seasoning comes in! This zesty spice blend can transform boring pork chops into a mouthwatering meal But can you use Old Bay seasoning on pork chops? Let’s find out.

What is Old Bay Seasoning?

Old Bay seasoning is a spice blend that originated in Baltimore, Maryland in the 1940s. It was created by German immigrant Gustav Brunn to season crab cakes, and its popularity quickly spread. The blend contains 18 herbs and spices including black pepper, paprika, celery salt, bay leaves, mustard, ginger, mace, cardamom, and cloves. It has a distinctive yellow-orange color from the paprika.

This versatile seasoning is commonly associated with seafood dishes. But it’s also fantastic on chicken, potato salad, corn on the cob, fried foods, and more. The spicy-tangy flavor profile pairs perfectly with the rich taste of pork

Benefits of Using Old Bay on Pork Chops

Using Old Bay seasoning on pork chops offers several advantages:

• Adds flavor – Old Bay infuses pork with robust spice flavor ranging from warm and peppery to tangy and zesty.

• Enhances crust – The blend of spices helps form a flavorful, craggy crust when pan-seared.

• Simple to use – Old Bay can be used right out of the bottle as a quick seasoning.

• Works as a rub or marinade – Pork chops can be coated in Old Bay just before cooking or marinated for hours to really pack in flavor.

• Versatile blend – Old Bay complements most common pork chop recipes from breaded to grilled to roasted.

• Masks gamey taste – The bold spices disguise any off-putting flavors in pork from boar or heritage hogs.

How to Use Old Bay on Pork Chops

From a fast weeknight dinner to date night fare, Old Bay pork chops always satisfy. Here are some tips for using this zesty seasoning on pork:

• Generously coat chops with Old Bay just before cooking. The spices will form a tasty crust when pan-seared.

• For a quick marinade, coat chops with seasoning then let sit 15-30 minutes before cooking.

• Make a wet marinade with olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and lots of Old Bay. Marinate several hours for maximum flavor infusion.

• Mix Old Bay with brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper for a sweet and savory rub.

• Sprinkle Old Bay over pork chops before roasting or grilling to add flavor during cooking.

• Stir Old Bay into breadcrumbs when making breaded pork chops for amplified spice and crunch.

• Add a dash of Old Bay to sauces and glazes served with pork. A little goes a long way!

Old Bay Pork Chop Recipes To Try

Here are a few tasty recipes that showcase how delicious Old Bay seasoning is on pork:

Old Bay Roasted Pork Chops

Coat bone-in chops with olive oil, Old Bay, salt, and pepper. Roast at 425°F for 15-20 minutes until browned and cooked through.

Old Bay Grilled Pork Chops

Marinate 1-inch thick chops in Old Bay, lemon juice, oil, and chopped garlic. Grill over medium heat, turning once, for 8-10 minutes per side.

Old Bay & Brown Sugar Crusted Pork Chops

Dredge chops in flour seasoned with Old Bay, brown sugar, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pan fry in olive oil for 3-4 minutes per side until caramelized.

Crispy Old Bay Pork Chop Sandwiches

Dip chops in egg wash then Old Bay seasoned breadcrumbs. Pan fry until golden. Serve on buns with lettuce, tomato, and remoulade sauce.

Old Bay Pork Chop and Potato Skillet

Brown pork chops in oil then remove. Cook potatoes in same pan and season with Old Bay. Nestle chops back into pan and cover until potatoes are tender.

Tips for Cooking Old Bay Pork Chops

Follow these tips to end up with juicy, flavorful Old Bay pork chops every time:

• Pat chops dry before seasoning or coating to help flavors adhere.

• Allow seasoning or marinade to penetrate chops for at least 15-30 minutes, or up to overnight.

• Use a blend of butter and oil when pan-frying to prevent sticking and add richness.

• Cook over medium to medium-high heat to get a good sear while avoiding burning spices.

• Roast or grill chops over indirect heat, turning once, until just slightly pink inside.

• Let chops rest 5 minutes after cooking so juices can redistribute before slicing.

How Much Old Bay for Pork Chops?

When it comes to how much Old Bay seasoning to use on pork chops, let your taste buds be the guide! Start with a lighter hand, about 1 teaspoon per chop, then add more to your liking. If making a marinade, blend 2-3 tablespoons of Old Bay per 1⁄4 cup of oil or other wet ingredients. Sprinkle extra on before serving. The beauty of Old Bay is that it’s hard to overdo it!

Old Bay seasoning and pork chops are a match made in flavor heaven. The spice blend packs chops with vibrant flavor and creates an irresistible crust when pan-fried. While traditionally used for seafood, Old Bay is equally at home on pork. Use it as a quick rub, make a marinade, or add it to breadings. With a dash of creativity, the possibilities for Old Bay pork chops are endless. Give this zesty combo a try tonight! Your taste buds will thank you.