These garlic butter pan-seared pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! The buttery garlic sauce makes them irresistible. Plus, they’re quick to cook—perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Who can resist the aroma of garlic and butter? I love serving these pork chops with some mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. It’s such a simple treat that impresses everyone!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are ideal for this recipe as they stay juicier during cooking. If you prefer boneless, you can use those too! Just adjust the cooking time slightly.
Olive Oil: This oil gives a nice flavor. For a different taste, you can use avocado oil or even butter as your primary fat, although it may not reach the same sear.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best so you can control the salt level. If you’re looking to lower calories, use less butter or a plant-based alternative.
Garlic: Fresh garlic makes a big difference in flavor. If you’re out of fresh garlic, you can substitute with garlic powder, just use about 1/8 teaspoon per garlic clove.
Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary add a lovely fragrance. If you don’t have these, Italian seasoning can be a quick substitute. It works great, too!
How Do I Get a Perfect Sear on My Pork Chops?
Getting that perfect golden crust is essential, and it’s all about the technique! Here are some tips to help you achieve it:
- Make sure to pat the pork chops dry using paper towels. Moisture keeps them from browning well.
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot before adding oil. The shimmer indicates it’s ready!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed. Spacing allows each chop to get that lovely sear.
- Flip the chops only once. Letting them be helps develop that nice crust.
These simple tips will lead to juicy and beautifully seared pork chops every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For The Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Time Needed to Cook:
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook, for a total of about 25 minutes. It’s a quick and delightful meal that’s packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear! Next, season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. This adds great flavor to the meat.
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. You want the skillet hot to get that beautiful, golden crust on the pork chops.
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
Add the pork chops to the skillet. Let them sear without moving them for about 4-5 minutes, until they develop a golden brown crust. This step is important for flavor!
4. Flip and Add Flavor:
Carefully flip the pork chops over using tongs. Reduce the heat to medium. Now it’s time to add the butter, minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary to the skillet. This will create a delicious garlic butter sauce!
5. Baste for Extra Flavor:
As the butter melts, continuously spoon the garlic butter over the pork chops for about 3-4 minutes. Cook until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C) for juicy and safe-to-eat chops.
6. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, carefully remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the pork tender.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish the pork chops with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired. Squeeze some lemon over the chops for a bright finish!
Enjoy your flavorful garlic butter pan-seared pork chops! They’re sure to become a new favorite!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind that they may cook a bit faster, so be sure to check their internal temperature earlier to avoid drying them out.
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
No worries! If you don’t have fresh thyme or rosemary, you can substitute with 1/2 teaspoon of dried herbs for each teaspoon of fresh herbs called for in the recipe. Italian seasoning can also work well!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Recipe with Chicken or Beef Instead?
Absolutely! You can use the same method for chicken breasts or thighs. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type and thickness of the meat. For beef, consider using steaks and adjust the cooking to your desired doneness.
