Let’s Make Juicy Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops!
Hey there! If you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine, you’ve come to the right place. I’m excited to share this simple yet absolutely delicious recipe for garlic butter pan-seared pork chops. Trust me, these chops are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor that will make your taste buds dance!
Why These Pork Chops Are Amazing
Cooking pork chops can feel intimidating, but I promise they can be so easy and quick to make. One of the best parts about making them at home is knowing exactly what goes into your dish. These pork chops cook in a heavenly garlic butter sauce, making them not just tasty but also a little fancy! Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a friend gathering, or just to treat yourself, these chops will impress!
Nutritional Benefits
Pork chops are a fantastic source of protein, which is crucial for maintaining muscle mass and promoting satiety. Moreover, they provide important vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and zinc—nutrients that help support your immune system and energy levels. And with heart-healthy olive oil and nutrient-rich garlic in the mix, you’ll be nourishing your body while enjoying a scrumptious meal!
Adaptable Variations
- Herb Swaps: If thyme isn’t your favorite, feel free to swap it for rosemary or oregano for a fresh twist!
- Spice it Up: Add a bit more heat with a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Meat Alternatives: You can use chicken breasts or thighs if you’re not into pork. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
- Vegan Option: Try using chickpea patties or portobello mushrooms instead of pork, and substitute vegan butter to keep it plant-based.
Ingredients List
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for seasoning)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Serves 4 people
Standard portions → 4 servings
Slightly smaller portions → up to 5 servings
Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Pork Chops: Start by taking the pork chops out of the refrigerator and letting them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking.
- Season the Meat: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and optionally, paprika to enhance the flavor.
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet (preferably cast iron), heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sear the Chops: Add the pork chops to the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they develop a nice golden-brown crust.
- Add Garlic and Butter: Once the chops are browned, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter, minced garlic, fresh thyme, and half of the chopped parsley to the pan.
- Baste the Chops: As the butter melts, tilt the skillet slightly and use a spoon to baste the garlic butter over the pork chops repeatedly for about 1-2 minutes. This infuses them with flavor and keeps them moist!
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C). If needed, cook for an additional couple of minutes.
- Rest the Chops: Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for about 5 minutes. This helps lock in the juices.
- Finish the Sauce: If desired, add a splash of chicken broth or white wine to the remaining butter and garlic in the skillet, stirring to combine, then reduce slightly to create a simple sauce.
- Serve: Serve the pork chops drizzled with the garlic butter sauce and garnish with the remaining chopped parsley. Enjoy your juicy and flavorful garlic butter pan-seared pork chops!
Practical & Valuable Tips
- Make sure to let your pork chops rest before cooking to ensure a juicy interior.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- These pork chops pair well with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- A large skillet (cast iron works best for even cooking)
- A meat thermometer (to check doneness)
- A wooden spoon or spatula for basting
- A cutting board and knife for preparing ingredients
- Paper towels for drying the pork chops
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen pork chops? Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for best results.
- Can I add vegetables to the pan? Absolutely! Carrots or Brussels sprouts can be added to the pan during the last few minutes of cooking.
- How do I know when the pork chops are ready? A meat thermometer is your best friend! Aim for 145°F (63°C).
- What sides go well with these pork chops? They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad.
- Can I make these ahead of time? These pork chops are best fresh, but they can be reheated gently.
Get Cooking!
Now that you have this easy recipe, I can’t wait for you to try it out! If you make these garlic butter pan-seared pork chops, let me know how they turn out. Share your delicious results with me on Pinterest or in the comments below! Happy cooking!
