Garlic Pork Bites are cubed, seasoned pork chops that are pan-seared to perfection and smothered in a rich, creamy garlic sauce. This hearty dish is great as a main course and pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Pork:
- 4 boneless pork chops (approximately 2 pounds), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
For the Sauce:
- ¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Season the pork evenly with onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the pork and sear for 3-5 minutes on each side until fully cooked (about 13-15 minutes total). The internal temperature should reach 145°F.
- Remove the pork from the skillet and set it on a plate. Tent with aluminum foil to keep warm.
- Prepare the sauce in the same skillet by melting butter. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute.
- Whisk in flour and cook until slightly thickened.
- Add the remaining ingredients: chicken broth, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5-8 minutes until thickened.
- Return the pork to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
- Serve immediately, ideally with mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables.
Nutrients (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 364
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 520mg
Enjoy your delicious Garlic Pork Bites! 🍽️
The Appeal of Garlic Pork Bites
One of the reasons Garlic Pork Bites have become so popular is their versatility. The dish features bite-sized pieces of pork that are seasoned and seared to golden perfection before being coated in a creamy, garlicky sauce. The combination of tender meat and a luscious sauce makes it an irresistible meal that pairs well with various side dishes, including mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.
Another advantage of this dish is its simplicity. It requires only a handful of ingredients, many of which are pantry staples, and can be prepared in under 30 minutes. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen.
Why This Recipe Works
Garlic Pork Bites work so well because of the perfect balance between the meat, seasonings, and sauce. Here are a few key factors that contribute to the dish’s success:
- Perfectly Cooked Pork – The cubed pork is seared in a hot skillet to lock in juices, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.
- Rich and Creamy Sauce – The combination of butter, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese results in a velvety sauce that complements the pork beautifully.
- Balanced Flavors – The slight tanginess from lemon juice enhances the savory depth of the dish, while the garlic provides a warm and aromatic note.
- Easy Customization – You can adjust the seasonings, add vegetables, or even tweak the sauce to suit your personal preferences.
Best Side Dishes to Serve With Garlic Pork Bites
Garlic Pork Bites are incredibly versatile when it comes to pairing with side dishes. Here are some great options to enhance your meal:
- Mashed Potatoes – The creamy, garlicky sauce pairs beautifully with smooth, buttery mashed potatoes.
- Steamed Rice – A bowl of fluffy rice soaks up the flavorful sauce, making each bite even more delightful.
- Roasted Vegetables – A mix of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus adds color and a healthy balance to your plate.
- Pasta – Serve Garlic Pork Bites over fettuccine or penne for a satisfying, creamy pasta dish.
- Crusty Bread – A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of the delicious sauce.
Tips for Cooking the Perfect Garlic Pork Bites
To ensure that your Garlic Pork Bites turn out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:
- Use High-Quality Pork – Choose fresh, boneless pork chops or pork tenderloin for the best results.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cooking the pork in batches helps achieve a golden-brown sear rather than steaming the meat.
- Let the Pork Rest – After searing, allow the pork to rest for a few minutes before adding it back to the sauce. This helps retain its juices.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency – If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to reach the desired consistency.
- Season to Taste – Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed for a well-balanced flavor.
Variations and Customization Ideas
Garlic Pork Bites can be easily customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Spicy Version – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish a bit of heat.
- Herb-Infused – Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil for added depth of flavor.
- Mushroom Addition – Sauté mushrooms before adding the garlic for an earthy twist.
- Dairy-Free Option – Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free alternative.
- Low-Carb Version – Serve with cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles instead of traditional carb-heavy sides.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
If you have leftovers, Garlic Pork Bites store well and can be enjoyed later. Follow these tips for storing and reheating:
- Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing – While you can freeze Garlic Pork Bites, the sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. To freeze, place cooled portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Reheating – Warm the dish in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.
Conclusion
Garlic Pork Bites are a delicious, easy-to-make dish that combines tender pork with a rich, garlicky cream sauce. Its quick preparation time and versatility make it an excellent choice for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Whether served with mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Try making Garlic Pork Bites today, and enjoy a meal packed with flavor and comfort!