These Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops are incredibly juicy, flavorful, and ready in just 15 minutes! Seared to golden perfection in a hot skillet, then basted with a rich garlic butter sauce, these pork chops are tender, juicy, and packed with savory goodness. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal, serve them with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete dish!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. Season the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Sear the Pork Chops: Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter, minced garlic, fresh thyme (if using), and red pepper flakes to the pan.
4. Baste the Chops: Tilt the skillet slightly and use a spoon to baste the pork chops with the melted garlic butter for 1-2 minutes.
5. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Remove the chops from the heat and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
6. Serve & Enjoy: Drizzle any remaining garlic butter over the pork chops and serve with your favorite sides!

Nutrients (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~350 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a meal that’s easy yet impressive, this is it. The process of pan-searing locks in the juices, creating tender, flavorful meat with a crisp, golden-brown crust. The addition of a garlicky butter sauce takes these pork chops to another level, infusing them with richness and depth.

Unlike oven-baked or slow-cooked pork chops, this method delivers results in just 15 minutes without sacrificing taste or texture. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe—serve it with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

The Secret to Perfect Pan-Seared Pork Chops

Achieving restaurant-quality pork chops at home is all about the technique. Here are a few key factors that make all the difference:

• The Right Cut: Whether you use bone-in or boneless pork chops, opt for ones that are at least 1 inch thick. This helps retain moisture and prevents them from overcooking.
• Proper Seasoning: A blend of salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder enhances the natural flavors of the pork.
• High Heat Searing: Using a cast-iron skillet allows the pork chops to develop a gorgeous crust while locking in juices.
• Garlic Butter Basting: The addition of garlic butter ensures every bite is juicy and packed with bold, buttery goodness.
• Resting Time: Allowing the pork chops to rest after cooking helps redistribute the juices, making them even more tender.

Understanding the Cooking Process

This recipe follows a simple yet effective technique to ensure the best results:

1. Seasoning the Pork Chops: Drying the pork chops with paper towels helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes even browning.
2. Searing for a Golden Crust: Using high heat ensures the outside caramelizes quickly, creating a deliciously crispy exterior.
3. Adding Garlic Butter: Once the pork chops are nearly done, the addition of butter, garlic, and herbs elevates the flavor profile.
4. Basting for Extra Juiciness: Continuously spooning the melted butter over the pork chops infuses them with moisture and richness.
5. Checking for Doneness: Using a meat thermometer ensures the pork reaches the perfect internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), keeping it juicy and safe to eat.
6. Resting Before Serving: A brief resting period allows the meat fibers to relax, preventing juices from escaping when cut.

The Magic of Garlic Butter Sauce

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the garlic butter sauce. Made with unsalted butter, minced garlic, and optional fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, this sauce enhances the natural umami of the pork. The butter adds a luxurious texture, while the garlic provides a fragrant depth of flavor. If you enjoy a bit of spice, red pepper flakes can be added for a subtle kick.

Pairing Suggestions

To make this meal complete, consider serving these pork chops with complementary sides. Here are some fantastic options:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes balance the savory, garlicky flavors of the pork.
• Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts provide a fresh contrast to the rich meat.
• Crispy Roasted Potatoes: A great alternative to mashed potatoes, these add a crispy texture to the meal.
• Garden Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a vinaigrette dressing offsets the richness of the dish.
• Steamed Rice: Simple yet satisfying, rice soaks up the flavorful garlic butter sauce beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While this recipe is simple, there are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Drying Step: Moisture on the pork chops can prevent proper browning.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too many pork chops at once lowers the pan’s temperature, leading to steaming instead of searing.
• Not Using a Thermometer: Guessing doneness can lead to either undercooked or dry, overcooked pork chops.
• Forgetting to Rest the Meat: Cutting into pork chops immediately after cooking causes the juices to run out, leading to dryness.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have leftovers, don’t worry! These pork chops store well and reheat beautifully.

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Place in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm them gently in a skillet over low heat with a small amount of butter or olive oil. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the meat.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops are a must-try for anyone who loves quick, delicious meals packed with flavor. The combination of a golden-brown sear, juicy interior, and rich, garlicky butter sauce makes this dish truly irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, these pork chops are sure to impress. With the right techniques, simple ingredients, and a little bit of love, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in just 15 minutes. Give this recipe a try, and it might just become your new go-to for pork chops!