These garlic butter pan-seared pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they are super easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Honestly, the garlic and buttery goodness makes every bite a little slice of heaven. Pair them with your favorite veggies, and you’ve got a winning meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops offer great flavor and moisture. If you’re in a pinch, boneless chops work as well, but reduce cooking time slightly to avoid dryness.
Olive Oil: This is perfect for sautéing due to its higher smoke point. If you’re looking for alternatives, avocado oil is also a great option, or you could use vegetable oil if that’s what you have on hand.
Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted allows you to control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, try using a plant-based butter or olive oil for a lighter flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for this recipe. If you’re out, you can use garlic powder in a pinch, but start with less, as it’s more concentrated.
Herbs: Thyme and rosemary add fantastic flavor. If fresh herbs are unavailable, you can use dried, just half the amount as dried herbs are stronger.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Juicy Pork Chops?
Getting juicy pork chops comes down to a few key techniques. First, make sure to pat them dry. This helps achieve that nice golden crust. Next, sear them without moving for even cooking.
- Use medium-high heat and let them brown for 4-5 minutes on each side.
- When you flip, reduce the heat to medium and add your butter and garlic mix. Basting helps keep them moist and infuses flavor.
- Remember to check the internal temperature! Aim for 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked chops.
- Lastly, let them rest! This is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your pork chops juicy and tender.
Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops
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 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and around 15 minutes for cooking. In total, you can have these delicious pork chops on the table in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps to get a nice, golden crust when cooking. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper for that added flavor.
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking. This is the perfect temperature for a good sear.
3. Sear the Chops:
Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet and let them sear without moving them around. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the first side is golden brown.
4. Flip and Add Flavor:
Turn the pork chops over and reduce the heat to medium. Then, add the unsalted butter, minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary to the skillet. As the butter melts, use a spoon to baste the melted garlic butter over the pork chops. This adds extra flavor and keeps the chops moist.
5. Check for Doneness:
Continue cooking for about 4-5 minutes or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C). This ensures your chops are juicy and safe to eat!
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat even more tender. Finally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy your delicious garlic butter pan-seared pork chops!
FAQ for Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-in?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used, but you’ll want to reduce the cooking time slightly since they may cook faster. Start checking for doneness around 3-4 minutes on each side to avoid drying them out.
What Should I Serve with Pork Chops?
These flavorful chops pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Creamy polenta or rice also makes a lovely base to soak up the garlic butter sauce!
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist.
Can I Make the Chops Spicier?
Yes! If you’d like to add some heat, consider sprinkling some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper along with your seasonings. Start with a pinch and adjust to your spice preference!
