Irresistible Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops Recipe

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever tasted a dish that made you feel like you were wrapped in a warm blanket? Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops is that dish. Imagine the sizzling sound as the pork chops hit the hot skillet, releasing a mouthwatering aroma of garlic and butter that fills your kitchen. The golden-brown crust, perfectly seared, locks in all the juicy flavors making each bite an unforgettable experience.

This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family. I still remember the first time I tried these pork chops at a friend’s barbecue; it was love at first bite. The combination of rich garlic butter and tender meat creates an explosion of flavors on your palate. Get ready to elevate your culinary skills with this easy yet impressive dish that promises to delight everyone at your table.

Key Ingredients For Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pork Chops: Bone-in or boneless pork chops work well; choose thick cuts for juiciness.
• Fresh Garlic: Use whole cloves for maximum flavor; finely minced garlic releases even more aroma.
• Unsalted Butter: This adds richness; unsalted allows better control over overall seasoning.
• Olive Oil: A blend with butter helps achieve the ideal sear without burning.
• Fresh Herbs: Thyme or rosemary enhances flavor; use fresh for the best taste.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step : Preheat Your Skillet

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil until shimmering but not smoking.

Second Step : Season the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

Third Step : Sear the Pork Chops

Place the seasoned pork chops in the hot skillet. Sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.

Fourth Step : Add Garlic and Butter

Once seared, reduce heat to medium-low. Add minced garlic and butter to the pan, basting the pork chops with the melted mixture for an additional 2 minutes.

Fifth Step : Incorporate Fresh Herbs

Add fresh herbs into the pan during the last minute of cooking. This will infuse aromatic flavors into your pork chops.

Sixth Step : Check Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Remove from heat and let rest before serving.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Resting Time: Letting pork chops rest after cooking helps retain juices for maximum tenderness.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary; overcrowding lowers temperature and hinders browning.
• Pairing Suggestions: Serve with sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Instructions

To prepare Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops, follow these simple steps.

Begin by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This ensures a good sear. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Then, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes, until they develop a golden-brown crust.

Next, reduce the heat to medium and add butter, minced garlic, and fresh herbs, if desired. Spoon the melted garlic butter over the pork chops as they cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until their internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops are delicious on their own but can be enhanced with various side dishes. Consider pairing them with creamy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food experience. Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or asparagus, can add color and nutrition to your plate. A fresh garden salad also complements this dish beautifully while balancing its richness.

For an extra touch of flavor, drizzle some of the leftover garlic butter from the pan over your sides just before serving.

Storage Tips

To store leftover Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. These chops can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through or microwave them in short intervals.

If you wish to freeze your leftovers, wrap each chop tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Presentation Ideas

This Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The richness complements the savory flavors of the pork chops.
• Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Bright colors and textures enhance your plate visually and nutritionally.
• Garden Salad: A fresh salad adds crunch and balances out the dish’s richness.

FAQs

How do I know when my Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops are done?

To determine if your pork chops are perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check their internal temperature. The USDA recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chop without touching bone for an accurate reading. If you don’t have a thermometer handy, cut into a chop; it should be opaque with no pink juices running out.

Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?

Yes! Boneless pork chops work well for Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops. In fact, they often cook faster than bone-in varieties due to less mass. Just ensure you adjust cooking times accordingly; thinner cuts may require less time on each side. Regardless of which type you choose, follow proper seasoning and cooking techniques for best results.

What can I substitute for garlic in this recipe?

If you’re looking to make Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops without garlic due to dietary restrictions or personal preference, consider using shallots or leeks instead. These alternatives offer a milder onion flavor that still enhances your dish beautifully without overpowering it. You could also use garlic powder as an alternative; however, adjust quantities according to taste since it’s more concentrated than fresh garlic.

Can I marinate my pork chops before cooking?

Absolutely! Marinating your pork chops before preparing Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops can enhance their flavor and tenderness significantly. Use ingredients like soy sauce, herbs, citrus juice, or vinegar as part of your marinade mix. Allow them to marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour or even overnight for deeper flavor penetration. Just remember to pat them dry before searing!

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Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops

• Author: jenny
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops are a delightful dish that combines tender, juicy pork with rich, aromatic garlic butter. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch from the golden-brown crust and an explosion of flavor that makes this recipe perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. Quick and easy to prepare, these pork chops will impress your guests and elevate your culinary skills.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 bone-in pork chops (1-inch thick)
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil until shimmering.
2. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Sear the pork chops in the hot skillet for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low, add minced garlic and butter, basting the chops for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Add fresh herbs during the last minute of cooking for extra flavor.
6. Ensure internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) using a meat thermometer. Let rest before serving.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: For enhanced tenderness, let the pork chops rest after cooking. You can substitute boneless pork chops; adjust cooking time as needed. Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.