These garlic butter pan-seared pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! With just a few simple ingredients like garlic, butter, and herbs, they come together in no time.
I love how crispy they get on the outside while staying tender inside. Pair them with veggies or potatoes, and you’ve got an easy dinner that feels fancy! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend bone-in pork chops for the best flavor and juiciness. Boneless chops work too, just keep an eye on cooking time as they may cook faster.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil gives a nice flavor, but you can substitute with vegetable oil or another cooking oil if that’s what you have.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferable to control the salt level. If you’re dairy-free, consider using vegan butter or a bit more olive oil.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is the way to go for maximum flavor, but if you only have garlic powder, you can use about 1 teaspoon instead.
Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary add wonderful flavor, but you can use dried herbs as an alternative. Just use half the amount, as dried herbs are more potent.
How Do I Get the Perfect Sear on My Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops until they’re golden brown is essential for adding flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot. Test by drizzling in oil; it should shimmer.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Leave the chops alone! Avoid flipping them too soon—let them sear for 4-5 minutes.
- Check the temperature! Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 145°F (63°C) for safe eating.
Following these tips will help you achieve that crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy! Enjoy cooking! 😊
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 recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and approximately 15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at about 25 minutes to enjoy a delicious meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil is shimmering—it means it’s hot enough for the pork chops!
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
Add the pork chops to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Sear without moving them for about 4-5 minutes, until they are beautifully golden brown on one side.
4. Flip and Sear Again:
Carefully flip the pork chops and sear the other side for another 4 minutes. This gives both sides that delicious crispy finish.
5. Add Flavors:
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Now, add the butter, minced garlic, thyme, and optionally the rosemary to the pan. This is where the magic happens!
6. Baste the Chops:
Using a spoon, tilt the pan slightly and continuously spoon the melted garlic butter over the pork chops. Do this for about 2-3 minutes. This helps infuse them with flavor and ensures they are fully cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for 5 minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute, making them extra juicy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish the pork chops with fresh parsley. Serve them with lemon wedges on the side for an added zesty kick if you’d like. Enjoy your perfectly cooked garlic butter pan-seared pork chops!
Happy cooking! 😊
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just keep an eye on the cooking time as they will typically cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
No worries! If you don’t have fresh thyme or rosemary, you can substitute with dried herbs. Use about half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. For thyme, use ½ teaspoon; for rosemary, about ½ teaspoon as well.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, making sure to avoid overcooking.
Can I Prepare These Pork Chops Ahead of Time?
While it’s best to enjoy them fresh for optimal flavor and texture, you can sear the pork chops and prepare the garlic butter sauce a few hours in advance. Just store them separately and combine them right before serving.
