These pan-seared pork chops are juicy and full of flavor. With a crispy outside and tender inside, they make for a perfect quick dinner any night!
Trust me, the smell alone will make your mouth water! I love serving them with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a yummy meal that feels fancy but is super easy to prepare.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for this recipe as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. If you only have boneless chops, they’ll still work but be mindful of reducing cooking time for tenderness.
Oil: I suggest olive oil for its flavor, but vegetable oil can be used. If you want a butter flavor without burning, you can combine both, using a little oil to raise the smoke point.
Herbs: Fresh thyme gives a lovely flavor, but if you can’t find it, rosemary or even dried herbs work well. About 1 teaspoon of dried thyme can replace fresh if needed.
Garlic: Smashed garlic adds a buttery, rich taste. If you’re not a garlic fan, you can skip this or add garlic powder for a milder flavor.
How Do I Achieve a Perfectly Crispy Crust?
Getting that golden-brown crust is crucial for delicious pork chops. Here are some tips:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the pork chops. This helps sear the meat instead of steaming it.
- Don’t flip the pork chops too soon! Let them cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes to develop that nice crust.
- Use a cast iron skillet if you can. It retains heat well and gives those chops a great sear.
- Basting with the melted butter and herbs enhances flavor and keeps the meat juicy. Just tilt the pan and spoon those delicious juices over!
Pan-Seared Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3-4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 3-4 sprigs fresh thyme (or rosemary)
- Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and 15-20 minutes cooking. It’s a quick and delicious way to enjoy a home-cooked meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops out of the fridge 20-30 minutes before you plan to cook them. This helps them cook evenly. Pat them dry with paper towels to get the best sear.
2. Season the Chops:
Generously sprinkle salt and black pepper on both sides of the pork chops. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it enhances the flavor!
3. Heat the Skillet:
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. A cast iron skillet works best for this! Let it heat up until it’s nice and hot, then add the oil and let it shimmer.
4. Sear the Chops:
Carefully place the pork chops into the hot skillet without crowding the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms. Avoid flipping them too soon!
5. Add Flavor:
Once the chops are seared, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter, smashed garlic cloves, and thyme sprigs into the pan. This will infuse flavor into the pork chops.
6. Baste for Moisture:
As the butter melts, tilt the pan slightly. Use a spoon to repeatedly scoop the melted butter and garlic over the pork chops for about 2-3 minutes. This keeps the meat juicy and adds flavor.
7. Check for Doneness:
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature of the thickest part of the pork chop. It should read 145°F (63°C). If it’s not there yet, continue cooking for another 1-3 minutes, flipping once.
8. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and transfer them to a cutting board. Cover them loosely with foil and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This will help keep them tender and juicy!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, you can sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a touch of color. Serve these beautiful pork chops with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a light salad. Enjoy every bite!
Happy cooking!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just be mindful that they will cook faster, so reduce the cooking time by a couple of minutes. Always check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safety.
What Should I Do if My Pork Chops Are Still Raw Inside?
No worries! If your pork chops are not fully cooked after the initial time, simply reduce the heat and continue cooking for an additional 1-3 minutes, flipping once during this time. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness.
Can I Make This Recipe without Garlic?
Absolutely! If garlic isn’t your thing, you can skip it entirely or substitute it with a pinch of garlic powder for a milder flavor. The chops will still be delicious with just the herbs and seasoning.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to avoid drying them out.
