These garlic butter pork chops are juicy and full of flavor, thanks to the rich butter and garlic. They cook up quickly, making them perfect for busy weeknights!
Seriously, who can resist that buttery, garlicky goodness? I like to serve them with some veggies on the side for a complete meal. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for maximum flavor and juiciness. If you prefer boneless, those work as well but watch the cooking time as they may cook faster.
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fat and flavor. You can use grapeseed oil or canola oil if you need a higher smoke point or simply don’t have olive oil on hand.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best, as it lets you control the saltiness. If you want to make this dairy-free, try using a plant-based butter spread.
Garlic: Fresh garlic really elevates the flavor. If you’re out of fresh, garlic powder can substitute in a pinch—just use 1/8 teaspoon per clove.
Thyme: Fresh thyme is perfect for its aroma, but dried thyme can work in a smaller quantity. I often use other herbs like rosemary for a different twist!
How Do I Get My Pork Chops Perfectly Searing?
Searing your pork chops is crucial for getting that nice golden-brown crust. Here’s what to do:
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the oil; this helps prevent sticking.
- Don’t crowd the pan; if needed, cook in batches to maintain heat.
- Pat the chops dry before seasoning to get a better sear.
- Let the chops sear undisturbed for a few minutes to develop that crust.
Another tip: use a meat thermometer! It ensures perfectly cooked meat without guesswork. Happy cooking!
Garlic Butter Pork Chops
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 fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dinner takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and around 15 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick option—just 25 minutes total from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry using paper towels. This helps them get that nice sear! Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Make sure to coat them well—seasoning brings out the flavor!
2. Sear the Chops:
In a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Carefully add the pork chops to the pan. Let them sear without moving them for about 4-5 minutes, or until they are nicely browned and caramelized. Then, flip them over and sear the other side. Once done, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter:
Lower the heat to medium. Add the butter to the same skillet. Let it melt and bubble. Then, add the minced garlic and thyme into the melted butter, stirring constantly for about 1 minute. You want the garlic to be fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can taste bitter!
4. Finish Cooking the Chops:
Return the seared pork chops back to the skillet and spoon that delicious garlic butter over the top. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, turning once and basting frequently. Keep cooking until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches about 145°F (63°C) for perfect juiciness.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, take the skillet off the heat. Sprinkle the pork chops with the freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and flavor. Let the chops rest in the pan for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, which keeps them juicy. Serve them warm, snuggling those garlic butter drizzles over the top!
This recipe creates juicy, flavorful pork chops smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce. Enjoy your meal! 😊
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine, but they may cook faster, so keep an eye on the temperature and reduce cooking time by a couple of minutes if needed.
What Can I Substitute for Thyme?
If you don’t have thyme, feel free to substitute with rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile! If using dried herbs, remember to use about one-third of the amount.
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 a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Simply swap the butter for a plant-based butter alternative or use olive oil instead. This will still give you a tasty result without the dairy!
