These garlic butter pan-seared pork chops are juicy and packed with flavor! The buttery garlic sauce makes every bite delightful.
Honestly, what’s better than delicious pork chops sizzling in a pan? I love serving them with mashed potatoes or a light salad for a simple meal everyone enjoys!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are best for flavor and juiciness. If you can’t find them, boneless chops work too but may cook faster. Just keep an eye on the cooking time!
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over the salt. If you want a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or vegan butter instead. It still works great!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute. Use about 1/8 teaspoon for each clove of fresh garlic.
Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary bring lots of flavors! If they’re not available, Italian seasoning is a good alternative. I personally love using dried herbs because they’re always on hand!
How Do I Get the Perfect Sear on My Pork Chops?
Getting that perfect golden-brown crust is all about the cooking technique. Here’s how you can nail it:
- Start with room temperature chops; this helps them cook evenly.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the oil. A shimmering surface indicates it’s ready.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; if needed, cook in batches. Crowding lowers the heat and keeps you from getting a nice sear!
- Let them sear without moving them for 4-5 minutes. Patience is key—resist the urge to flip too soon!
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness (145°F is perfect). This ensures juicy results!
With a little practice in the pan-searing technique, you’ll have beautifully cooked pork chops every time!
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 (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 30 minutes. You’ll need around 15-20 minutes for prep and cooking, plus 5 minutes for the pork chops to rest before serving. It’s a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get the Chops Ready:
Start by removing the pork chops from the refrigerator. Let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This helps them cook evenly. While you’re waiting, you can gather and measure your ingredients.
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to help them sear better. Then, sprinkle both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This adds great flavor!
3. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. This means it’s hot enough for cooking!
4. Sear the Pork Chops:
Add the pork chops to the skillet in a single layer. Let them sear without moving them for about 4-5 minutes until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms. Patience is key here!
5. Flip and Cook Through:
Carefully flip the pork chops and cook on the other side for an additional 4-5 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached at least 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness.
6. Add the Flavors:
Reduce the heat to medium-low, then add the butter, minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary (if you’re using it) to the pan. The garlic and herbs will infuse the dish with flavor.
7. Baste the Chops:
Gently tilt the pan and spoon the melted garlic butter over the pork chops for about 1-2 minutes. This keeps the meat moist and makes every bite delicious!
8. Let Them Rest:
Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute and keeps your pork chops juicy.
9. Serve with a Garnish:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for some color and flavor. If you like, serve the pork chops with lemon wedges for an extra zesty touch!
Enjoy your flavorful garlic butter pan-seared pork chops!
FAQ About Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook faster than bone-in chops—usually around 3-4 minutes per side should be enough.
How Do I Know When the Pork Chops Are Done?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). This ensures they’re safe to eat and juicy!
Can I Make This Recipe Without Butter?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free alternative. While the flavor will change a bit, it will still create a delicious dish!
What Should I Serve with Pork Chops?
Pork chops pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light salad. You can also serve them with your favorite grain, like quinoa or rice, to soak up the garlic butter sauce!
