Preheat your pan or grill to medium-high. Sear the pork on each side for about 3-4 minutes, then let it coast to temp. Don’t walk away—check it with your trusty thermometer after 5 more minutes.
If you’re roasting a whole tenderloin, cook it at 425°F for about 15-20 minutes, then rest. For chops, ½ inch thickness needs about 8-10 minutes total. Thicker cuts take longer, but you get the idea.
The Chill Takeaway
Pork is not a science experiment—it’s dinner. 145°F is your new standard, and it’s safe, juicy, and delicious. Don’t let old myths ruin a perfectly good meal. So next time you fire up the stove, relax. Your pork is ready to party.
What’s the worst that could happen? You overcook it, and it’s still edible. But with a thermometer and a little curiosity, you’ll unlock a whole new world of flavor. Go ahead—you’ve got this.