These juicy pork chops are cooked to perfection in garlic butter. They’re super flavorful and have that nice golden crisp everyone loves!
Cooking them is a breeze! Just season, sear, and slather with buttery garlic goodness. I always make extra for sandwiches the next day—so tasty! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are best for flavor and tenderness. If you can’t find them, boneless chops or even pork loin steaks work well. Just adjust cooking time accordingly!
Butter: Unsalted butter is my favorite since it allows you to control the salt level in the dish. If you’re dairy-free, try using olive oil or vegan butter as a substitute.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re out, garlic powder can work in a pinch. Use about 1/8 teaspoon for every clove, but remember—it’s not quite the same!
Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary add great depth to the dish. If you don’t have them, Italian seasoning is a suitable all-purpose substitute. You can also simply skip them if you like a simpler taste.
How Do I Get My Pork Chops Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pork chops just right can be tricky, but here’s how to nail it!
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the pork. This creates a nice sear, locking in juices.
- Don’t rush the flipping! Let them cook undisturbed for a full 4 minutes to achieve a golden crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. 145°F is your target. This avoids dry, overcooked pork.
- Let the pork rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain the juices for a moist and flavorful bite.
These simple steps will help you serve pork chops that are both juicy and full of flavor!
Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, bringing the total to about 25 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps create a nice sear! Next, generously season both sides with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. You want the pan hot so the chops sear properly.
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
Carefully add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet. Let them sear without moving them for about 4 minutes. This will get that beautiful golden crust! Flip the chops and sear the other side for another 4 minutes. If your chops are thicker or thinner, adjust the cooking time as needed.
4. Add Garlic Butter:
Once both sides are nicely browned, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter, minced garlic, and thyme (and rosemary if using) to the skillet. Let it melt, infusing the flavors into the pork.
5. Baste the Chops:
Now, tilt the pan slightly so the butter pools on one side. Use a spoon to continuously scoop the melted garlic butter over the pork chops for 2-3 minutes. This adds incredible flavor!
6. Check for Doneness:
It’s time to check if the pork is cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature is 145°F (63°C). Alternatively, you can cut a small slit to check that it’s juicy and no longer pink inside.
7. Rest the Chops:
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, keeping them moist and flavorful.
8. Garnish and Serve:
To finish, sprinkle chopped parsley over the pork chops and drizzle some of the garlic butter sauce from the skillet on top. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can! Boneless pork chops will cook faster, so reduce the searing time by about 1-2 minutes per side. Just be sure to check for doneness!
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
You can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or even avocado oil. Just look for oils with a high smoke point, as they work best for searing.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave to avoid drying them out.
What Should I Serve with Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops?
This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with rice or pasta to soak up that delicious garlic butter sauce!
