TGI Friday’s Pepper Crusted Pork Chops Recipe: A Flavorful Restaurant-Style Dish at Home

Introduction

There’s something inherently satisfying about recreating restaurant-quality meals in the comfort of your own kitchen. Among the many iconic dishes that leave lasting impressions on guests dining at TGI Friday’s, the Pepper Crusted Pork Chops stand out as a bold and flavorful entrée. Perfectly seared, tender, and coated in a rich blend of crushed peppercorns and savory spices, this dish combines hearty comfort with a restaurant-style presentation.

Pork chops have long been a dinnertime favorite across the globe. Known for their succulent texture and mild flavor, pork chops provide a blank canvas for culinary creativity. At TGI Friday’s, they’ve turned this staple into something exceptional with the pepper crust—a cracked blend of black, white, and pink peppercorns—that imparts an assertive but balanced heat and aroma.

This article will guide you through every element of recreating this delicious entrée, from selecting the right cut of pork to crafting the pepper crust and mastering a juicy pan-sear. We’ll also include tips on side dishes, sauces, and even reheating leftovers without sacrificing flavor.

Whether you’re hosting a weekend dinner party or preparing a special family meal, this TGI Friday’s-inspired Pepper Crusted Pork Chops recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the culinary journey of creating this savory dish in your own kitchen.

Pepper Crusted Pork Chops Recipe (Inspired by TGI Friday’s)

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops:

4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 to 1.25 inches thick)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Pepper Crust:

2 tablespoons coarsely ground black pepper
1 tablespoon pink peppercorns (optional, for floral notes)
1 tablespoon white pepper
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for added heat)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary

For the Pan Sauce (Optional but Recommended):

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1/4 cup heavy cream or sour cream
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment Needed

Cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan
Meat thermometer
Tongs
Small bowl for mixing spices
Aluminum foil (for resting the meat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Choose the Right Pork Chops

Opt for bone-in pork chops that are at least 1 inch thick. These are ideal for retaining moisture and flavor. Thin chops tend to overcook easily, whereas thick chops stay juicy and absorb spices better.

Step 2: Pat Dry and Season the Pork

Remove the pork chops from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 20 minutes. Pat them dry with paper towels—this helps the crust stick better and encourages a good sear.

Season both sides of each pork chop with kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. These base flavors will enhance the pepper crust.

Step 3: Make the Pepper Crust

In a small bowl, combine:

2 tablespoons coarsely ground black pepper
1 tablespoon white pepper
1 tablespoon pink peppercorns (if using)
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for spice)
1 teaspoon thyme
1/2 teaspoon rosemary

This mixture should be coarse—not finely ground—to create that signature textured crust. Press the pepper crust firmly onto both sides of each pork chop.

Step 4: Sear the Chops

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering but not smoking, add the pork chops. Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if necessary.

Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes, without moving the chops too much. This helps develop a deep golden-brown crust. Reduce heat to medium if needed to avoid burning the pepper coating.

Step 5: Finish in the Oven or Skillet

If using an oven-safe skillet, transfer the skillet to a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and roast for an additional 8–10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

If you’re finishing on the stovetop, cover the pan loosely and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for another 6–8 minutes, flipping once, until done.

Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking—pork should be juicy with a slight blush in the center.

Step 6: Make the Creamy Pan Sauce (Optional)

Remove the cooked pork chops and let them rest under foil for 5–10 minutes. Meanwhile, use the same skillet to create a luscious pan sauce:

Lower the heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan.
Sauté 2 cloves of garlic until fragrant.
Add 1/2 cup of chicken broth and scrape up browned bits (fond).
Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream (or sour cream), 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce.
Simmer until slightly thickened (about 3–5 minutes). Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Pour over pork chops before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your TGI Friday’s Pepper Crusted Pork Chops with:

Garlic mashed potatoes
Steamed asparagus or green beans
Roasted Brussels sprouts
Classic coleslaw
Macaroni and cheese
Balsamic-glazed carrots

Add a sprig of parsley or a few pink peppercorns for garnish and visual appeal.

Tips and Tricks

1. Choose Bone-In Over Boneless

Bone-in chops deliver better moisture and richer flavor. The bone helps insulate the meat during cooking, leading to a more even finish.

2. Don’t Skip the Resting

Allowing meat to rest post-cooking redistributes juices, ensuring a moist bite every time.

3. Control the Heat

Pepper can burn quickly. If your pan gets too hot, lower the heat and flip the chops gently to prevent burning the crust.

4. Grind Pepper Fresh

Use a mortar and pestle or a coarse setting on your pepper grinder. Fresh ground peppercorns offer a better aroma and flavor.

5. Try a Marinade (Optional)

You can marinate the pork chops in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and thyme for 1–2 hours before adding the pepper crust. This adds more depth to the flavor profile.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate leftover pork chops in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat and retain crispiness:

Preheat your oven or air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Place the chops on a baking tray with a splash of broth or cover with foil.
Heat for 8–10 minutes until warm throughout.

Avoid microwaving, as it tends to toughen pork.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

(Approximate values based on 4 servings)

Calories: 380
Protein: 35g
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 0.5g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 480mg

This dish is low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making it suitable for low-carb or keto-friendly diets when served without starchy sides.

Variations to Try

Crusted Pork Tenderloin: Use the same spice blend for a roasted tenderloin—slice and serve with the creamy pan sauce.
Pepper Crusted Chicken: Swap pork for thick chicken breasts or thighs and follow the same instructions.
Asian-Inspired: Add ground Szechuan peppercorns and a soy-ginger glaze instead of cream sauce.
Grilled Version: Grill the pepper crusted pork chops over charcoal or gas grill for added smokiness.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is successful because it:

Balances heat and aroma from three types of pepper.
Builds umami with the optional pan sauce.
Focuses on texture—a seared crust with a juicy center.
Delivers restaurant-style quality at home.
Offers flexibility for dietary preferences and cooking methods.

TGI Friday’s understands crowd-pleasing comfort food, and this pork chop dish reflects that signature vibe. It’s indulgent but not overwhelming, robust without being spicy, and simple yet elevated.

Conclusion

Recreating TGI Friday’s Pepper Crusted Pork Chops at home is easier than you might expect—and infinitely rewarding. The key lies in choosing the right cut of meat, embracing the bold flavor of freshly cracked peppercorns, and mastering the sear.

Whether you’re serving guests or enjoying a cozy meal with family, this dish adds a gourmet touch to the table without requiring chef-level expertise. Its versatility pairs well with classic sides or creative accompaniments, making it a staple-worthy addition to your home-cooked repertoire.

If you’re a fan of rich, savory flavors and restaurant-inspired meals, this recipe is sure to become one of your go-to favorites. With just a few ingredients and thoughtful technique, you’ll be savoring a five-star dinner—no reservations required.

TGI Fridays Pepper Crusted Pork Chops Recipe