These Garlic Butter Pork Chops are juicy, flavorful, and super easy to make. With a yummy garlic butter sauce, they are sure to brighten up any dinner!
You can’t go wrong with these chops. My secret? I always save some garlic butter to drizzle on top before serving; it takes them to another level. Yum! 😋
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 be careful not to overcook them, as they dry out faster.
Olive Oil: This adds a nice flavor and helps to sear the meat. You could use vegetable oil or canola oil if preferred or if that’s what you have on hand.
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to for better control over salt levels. If you’re watching your saturated fat intake, you can use plant-based butter or a light oil for sautéing instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor here. If you have garlic powder, you can use that but only about 1 teaspoon, as it’s quite potent!
Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme add a great aroma. In a pinch, dried versions can substitute, but use less (about 1/3 of the amount), as they’re more concentrated.
How Do I Get the Perfect Sear on My Pork Chops?
Getting a good sear is all about the heat! Start with a hot skillet — this creates that beautiful golden crust. Here’s how:
- Make sure your pork chops are at room temperature for even cooking.
- Heat the oil until it’s shimmering but not smoking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give them space to cook evenly. If you’re making more, do it in batches.
- Only flip once to maintain that crust — it takes about 3-4 minutes per side on medium-high heat.
By following these tips, your pork chops will come out beautifully browned and delicious every time!
Garlic Butter Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Optional garnish: fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook. You’ll have delicious pork chops ready to enjoy in just under 30 minutes, plus a few minutes for resting. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops generously on both sides with salt and black pepper. This will enhance their flavor and make them taste amazing!
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking. You want it to be hot enough to get a nice sear on the chops.
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
Add the pork chops to the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown crust, and the chops should release easily from the pan when they’re ready to flip.
4. Add the Flavor:
Once both sides are seared, lower the heat to medium. Add the butter, smashed garlic cloves, chopped rosemary, and thyme to the pan. This will create a rich, fragrant sauce.
5. Baste the Chops:
Carefully tilt the pan slightly so that the melted butter collects on one side. Use a spoon to baste the pork chops with the buttery garlic and herb mixture continuously for about 2-3 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chops reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and place them on a plate. Cover them loosely with foil and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute, making them super tender!
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, garnish with fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve the pork chops drizzled with the garlic herb butter from the pan. Enjoy your meal!
With these simple steps, you’ll have delicious, juicy garlic butter pork chops that are sure to impress!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just be aware that they may cook faster, so check for doneness a minute or two earlier than the recipe suggests to avoid drying them out.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave with a splash of broth to keep them moist.
What Can I Serve with Garlic Butter Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair beautifully with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Additionally, they go great with rice or pasta to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While the pork chops are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge, then reheat it before serving. However, I recommend cooking the chops just before serving for maximum juiciness!