These garlic butter pork chops are juicy, easy to make, and packed with flavor! Sizzling in a buttery garlic sauce, they make dinner feel special without the fuss.
I love how quickly they cook up—perfect for busy nights! Just sear, baste, and enjoy! Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds or maybe even thirds. 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and juiciness. If you can’t find them, boneless chops work too, though they may cook faster, so watch the time!
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to for controlling salt levels. If you’re dairy-free, use a plant-based butter or olive oil instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder works, but use less—start with 1/4 teaspoon as it’s much stronger.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary add a lovely aroma. Dried herbs are fine too; just use about 1/3 of the amount since dried is more concentrated. I love adding a touch of crushed red pepper for heat sometimes!
How Do You Sear Pork Chops Perfectly?
Searing gives your pork chops a delicious crust that locks in moisture. To do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the oil. You want it shimmering but not smoking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed to achieve even browning.
- Leave the chops alone for the initial cooking time. This helps form that crust; flipping too soon can cause the meat to stick!
By taking these steps, you’ll achieve mouth-watering, juicy pork chops every time! Enjoy your cooking experience!
Garlic Butter Pork Chops – Juicy & Easy
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
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook, plus an additional 5 minutes to rest. So, you’ll have a tasty dinner on the table in around 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting your pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for getting that perfect sear! Season both sides of each chop generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re opting for that smoky flavor.
2. Sear the Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering but not smoking. Add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet without moving them around. Let them sear for about 4-5 minutes until they develop a delicious golden-brown crust.
3. Add Buttery Garlic Goodness:
Carefully flip the chops over, then reduce the heat to medium. Now, add the unsalted butter, minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary to the skillet. As the butter melts, gently tilt the pan and spoon the garlic butter sauce over the pork chops repeatedly for around 4-5 minutes. Cook until the chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
4. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat and let the pork chops rest in the pan for about 3-5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Finally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges if you’d like a zesty touch!
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful garlic butter pork chops, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner!
FAQ for Garlic Butter Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine, but make sure to adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster, typically in about 3-4 minutes per side.
What Can I Substitute for Butter?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use a plant-based butter or olive oil instead. Keep in mind that using olive oil will alter the flavor slightly but will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
For the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to cook these chops fresh. However, you can prep by seasoning the pork chops and making the garlic butter ahead of time, just store them separately in the fridge and combine when ready to cook!
