These garlic butter pan-seared pork chops are simple to make and bursting with flavor! Just cook them in a hot pan with butter and garlic for a delicious, golden-crisp outside.
Honestly, who can resist that buttery garlic aroma filling the kitchen? I always end up sneaking a taste right off the pan. It’s just too good! 😋
I love how quickly this dish comes together. Just sear the chops for about 4 minutes on each side and dinner is ready! Perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are my favorite because they’re juicy and flavorful. If you can only find boneless, that works too! Just watch the cooking time as they may cook a little faster.
Olive Oil: This is great for searing, but you could substitute with vegetable oil or canola oil. Just avoid oils that have strong flavors, as they might overpower the dish.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you more control over salt levels. You could switch to ghee or a dairy-free butter if you want a healthier or dairy-free option!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best for that bold flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can stand in. Just use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove.
Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary add delicious flavor. If you don’t have fresh, dried herbs work but use less—about 1/3 of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do You Get a Perfect Sear on Pork Chops?
Getting that golden-brown crust is key to making these pork chops delicious! Here’s how to do it:
- Start with dry pork chops. Pat them with paper towels to remove moisture—this helps achieve that lovely sear.
- Use a hot skillet! Heat your oil until it shimmers before adding the chops; this is essential for good browning.
- Don’t move them! Once they’re in the pan, let them sit for about 4 minutes. This allows the crust to form without steaming the meat.
- Keep the heat steady. If the pan is too hot, the outside may burn before the inside cooks through. Medium-high is usually perfect.
With these tips, you should achieve perfectly seared and juicy pork chops every time!
Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons 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)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 15 minutes to cook. So, you’ll need approximately 25 minutes in total. It’s a quick and easy dish for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
First, take your pork chops out of the fridge about 20 minutes before cooking. This helps them reach room temperature and cook more evenly! Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any moisture—this is super important for creating that tasty sear. Once dry, season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot and shimmering. Carefully lay the pork chops in the skillet without overcrowding them. Let them sear without moving them for about 4 minutes until they’re beautifully golden brown. This step is key for that delicious crust!
3. Add Garlic and Herbs:
Now it’s time to flip the pork chops! Turn them over gently and add the butter, minced garlic, thyme, and optional rosemary to the pan. As the butter melts, tilt the pan slightly, and use a spoon to baste the pork chops with the buttery garlic mixture. Continue cooking for another 3 to 4 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
4. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the pan and place them on a plate. Cover them loosely with foil and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy! When you’re ready to serve, sprinkle fresh parsley on top and add some lemon wedges for a bright flavor boost if you like!
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful garlic butter pan-seared pork chops!
FAQ for Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed pork chops for even cooking. If you must use frozen, make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method: seal them in a plastic bag and submerge in cold water for a few hours before cooking.
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
No worries! You can definitely use dried herbs instead. Just remember to use less—about 1/3 of the amount required for fresh, since dried herbs are more potent. For this recipe, use approximately 1/3 teaspoon each of dried thyme and rosemary.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Leftover pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat with a little splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like asparagus or spinach while the pork chops are cooking. Just toss them in the pan after flipping the chops for a delicious one-pan meal!
