These garlic butter pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! Pan-seared to a lovely golden brown, they’re quick to make and oh-so-tasty. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home!
Honestly, the smell of garlic and butter sizzling is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. I like to serve them with some veggies for a touch of color—dinner made easy and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops offer great flavor and juiciness. If you prefer, you can use boneless chops, just reduce the cooking time slightly since they’re thinner—about 3-4 minutes per side should do it.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred here to control the salt level. If you need a dairy-free option, consider using olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative, which will still give a nice flavor to the dish.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for this recipe, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder—about ½ teaspoon should suffice, and add it to the pan alongside the butter.
Herbs: Fresh thyme adds a lovely aroma, but you could substitute with dried thyme or even Italian seasoning. Rosemary is optional but gives a nice depth; you can skip it if you prefer a simpler taste.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Pan-Seared Pork Chops?
The secret to beautifully seared pork chops lies in the cooking technique. First, make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the meat. Here’s how to get that perfect sear:
- Pat the pork chops very dry with paper towels. Moisture can prevent browning.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; give each chop ample space.
- Cook without turning for 4-5 minutes; this helps form a nice crust.
- Flip and immediately add the butter and garlic mixture—basting will enhance flavor and keep them juicy.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure they hit 145°F (63°C) for safe cooking.
Let them rest for a few minutes after cooking to ensure the juices are well-distributed. Trust me, this small step makes a big difference in flavor!
Garlic Butter Pork Chops Pan Seared to Perfection
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and approximately 10-15 minutes to cook, plus a 5-minute resting period. In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, gourmet meal ready to share!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better. Now, sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper generously on both sides. Don’t be shy—seasoning is key for flavor!
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil is shimmering but not smoking. This is the magic moment to add your pork chops for that perfect sear!
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
Carefully place the seasoned pork chops into the hot skillet. Let them cook without moving for about 4-5 minutes to achieve a lovely golden brown crust. Once the bottom side is perfectly seared, it’s time to flip!
4. Add Flavor with Butter and Garlic:
After flipping the pork chops, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter, minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary (if using) to the skillet. As the butter melts, spoon it over the pork chops. This basting step adds amazing flavor and keeps them juicy!
5. Finish Cooking:
Continue cooking the pork chops for another 4-5 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). You want them cooked through but don’t let them overcook, or they’ll dry out.
6. Let Them Rest:
Remove the pork chops from the skillet and place them on a plate. Let them rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. This step is crucial for juicy, tender pork chops!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish your beautifully seared pork chops with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color. Serve with lemon wedges on the side if you like a little zest. Enjoy your perfectly pan-seared garlic butter pork chops!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Garlic Butter Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can! Boneless pork chops will cook faster, so adjust the cooking time to about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on their thickness. Always check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safety.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Garlic?
If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder instead—about ½ teaspoon will do. Just add it to the skillet with the butter rather than minced with the other ingredients to prevent burning.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, zap them in the microwave on low power or warm them up in a skillet with a little butter to keep them juicy.
Can I Freeze Cooked Pork Chops?
Absolutely! Allow the pork chops to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results!
