One of my go-to weeknight dinners is a plate of perfectly seared, juicy Garlic Butter Pork Chops. This dish truly shines with its simple yet incredibly rich flavor profile, featuring tender pork bathed in a fragrant, buttery sauce. I adore how quickly it comes together, making it a lifesaver on busy evenings.
It’s the kind of meal that makes everyone at the table happy. Honestly, the aroma alone will have your family gathering in the kitchen. Plus, leftovers store wonderfully for lunch the next day. It’s a meal I can always count on.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe for Garlic Butter Pork Chops is a true gem. It’s incredibly easy to make. You can have a delicious meal on the table fast. That’s perfect for busy weeknights. The amazing flavor will impress your family. It’s so comforting and satisfying. It’s a versatile dish. You can serve it with so many sides. I just love how simple and delicious it is!
Garlic Butter Pork Chops Ingredients
The magic behind these Garlic Butter Pork Chops lies in its simplicity. High-quality ingredients come together to create something truly special. We are building a fantastic flavor base here.
Here are the stars of the show:
- Pork Chops: The foundation of our meal! Bone-in or boneless, about 1-inch thick, they provide tender, satisfying protein.
- Olive Oil: A touch to start the searing process. It helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust on the pork.
- Unsalted Butter: This is key for our luscious sauce. It adds richness and helps carry all those wonderful flavors.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential! It infuses the butter with its pungent, aromatic goodness.
- Italian Seasoning: A convenient blend that adds savory herbal notes. Oregano, thyme, and basil work beautifully here.
- Salt and Pepper: Our essential flavor enhancers. They bring out the natural taste of the pork.
- Fresh Parsley (Optional): A sprinkle of this bright green herb adds a pop of color and freshness as a garnish.
Substitutions and Tips
Want to switch things up? Feel free to use boneless pork chops if that’s what you have. If you don’t have Italian seasoning, a mix of dried oregano and thyme is a great substitute. For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic. Remember, exact measurements are in the printable recipe card!
How to Make Garlic Butter Pork Chops
Let’s get cooking! Making these incredible Garlic Butter Pork Chops is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps for a diner-worthy meal. We’ll create a beautiful sear. Then, we’ll finish them in a luscious garlic butter sauce. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Step 1: Prep The Pork Chops
First, grab your pork chops. Pat them completely dry using paper towels. This is a vital step. It helps create a great crust. Now, season both sides generously. Use salt and fresh black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
Step 2: Sear The Pork Chops
Next, heat a large skillet. Cast iron works wonderfully here. Use medium-high heat. Add your olive oil. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers. Carefully add the seasoned pork chops to the hot pan. Sear them for about 3–4 minutes on each side. We want a lovely golden-brown color. A beautiful crust is forming.
Step 3: Add Aromatics and Butter
Reduce the skillet’s heat to medium. Now, add the unsalted butter. Toss in your minced garlic. Stir the garlic gently. Cook for just about one minute. You want it fragrant, not burnt. The aroma is heavenly!
Step 4: Baste With Garlic Butter
This is where the magic happens. Spoon the melted garlic butter mixture over the pork chops. Do this repeatedly. Continue basting for 2–3 minutes. Ensure the chops are fully coated. This infuses them with so much flavor.
Step 5: Finish Cooking and Rest
Keep cooking the pork chops. Flip them once or twice. Continue basting. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. You’re aiming for 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare. For medium, go for 160°F (71°C). This usually takes another 5–7 minutes. The time depends on their thickness. Once done, remove the chops from the skillet. Let them rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes. This resting period is crucial. It keeps your pork chops wonderfully juicy and tender.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, garnish your beautiful pork chops. Sprinkle on fresh chopped parsley, if you have it. This adds a lovely pop of color. Drizzle any extra pan sauce over the top. Serve your main course immediately. Enjoy every delicious bite of your easy Garlic Butter Pork Chops!
How to Store Garlic Butter Pork Chops
Leftover Garlic Butter Pork Chops store wonderfully. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for about 3–4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze cooled pork chops. Wrap them tightly first. They can stay frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
Tips for Success
- Always pat your pork chops dry. This is crucial for a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed.
- Use a meat thermometer. It ensures perfectly cooked, juicy pork.
- Let the chops rest. This is key for tender, moist results.
- Taste your sauce before basting. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large Skillet: A cast-iron skillet is perfect. A heavy-bottomed stainless steel skillet also works well.
- Tongs: Essential for flipping the pork chops safely.
- Meat Thermometer: Ensures your pork is cooked to the perfect temperature.
- Cutting Board: For resting and serving the pork chops.
- Paper Towels: For patting the pork dry.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these Garlic Butter Pork Chops with mashed potatoes. Roasted asparagus is also a great choice.
- Crisp green beans or a simple side salad complement the richness beautifully.
- A glass of crisp white wine pairs wonderfully. You could also opt for sparkling cider.
- Present them on a nice platter for a more formal feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the garlic butter sauce ahead of time?
You can mince your garlic and prepare the Italian seasoning blend beforehand. However, it’s best to make the garlic butter sauce right before basting. This ensures the freshest flavor and aroma from the melted butter and garlic. Making it fresh guarantees that delicious coating for your pork chops.
What if I only have boneless pork chops?
Boneless pork chops work great too! They might cook a little faster, so keep an eye on them. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach the correct internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The searing and basting steps remain the same for these tasty Garlic Butter Pork Chops.
How do I prevent my pork chops from drying out?
The key is not to overcook them! Using a meat thermometer is your best friend for getting perfectly cooked, juicy Garlic Butter Pork Chops. Also, letting the pork chops rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them wonderfully moist and tender.
Print
Garlic Butter Pork Chops
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Description
A simple and delicious recipe for Garlic Butter Pork Chops, featuring tender pork chops seared to perfection and basted in a fragrant garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/4 tsp dried thyme, 1/4 tsp dried basil)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet (cast iron works great) over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Carefully place pork chops in the hot skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and a crust has formed. Reduce heat to medium.
- Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook, stirring the garlic, for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Spoon the melted garlic butter over the pork chops repeatedly for 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are coated.
- Continue cooking, flipping once or twice and basting, until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, or 160°F (71°C) for medium. This usually takes an additional 5-7 minutes depending on thickness.
- Remove pork chops from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board or plate for 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep them juicy.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve with pan sauce.
Notes
- For best results, use bone-in pork chops as they tend to stay juicier.
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the pork chops to achieve a good sear.
- Don’t overcook the pork chops; use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach the desired internal temperature.
- The pan sauce created in the skillet can be served alongside the pork chops.
