These garlic butter pork chops are a tasty treat! Juicy meat is cooked to perfection, then smothered in a rich, buttery garlic sauce that makes every bite delicious.
I love how easy these are to make—just season, sear, and sauce! Serve them with some veggies, and you’ve got a meal that feels fancy but is super simple. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add flavor and moisture as they cook. If you can’t find them, boneless chops work too, but watch the cooking time as they cook faster.
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness. If you need dairy-free options, use coconut oil or vegan butter, which will still give a nice richness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is ideal for this recipe. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder, but start with less as it’s more potent. I love using roasted garlic for an even sweeter flavor!
Herbs: Fresh parsley and thyme add brightness. Dried herbs can substitute, using about 1/3 of the amount since they’re more concentrated. Italian seasoning is another good swap!
What’s the Best Way to Sear Pork Chops for Maximum Flavor?
Searing your pork chops is key for a tasty crust! Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your pork chops are dry, as moisture can prevent browning.
- Heat the oil until it’s really hot, then add the chops without crowding the pan.
- Don’t move them for the first 4-5 minutes. This creates a beautiful crust!
- Flip and add butter, garlic, and herbs to the pan. Baste the chops with the melting butter for extra flavor and moisture.
It’s all about that perfect sear! Happy cooking!
Garlic Butter Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, peeled and lightly crushed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time. You’ll have a delicious dinner ready in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them to brown nicely. Next, season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it adds flavor!
2. Heat Your Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. You want it to be hot enough to sear the meat but not so hot that it smokes.
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
Carefully place the pork chops into the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Let them sear without moving them for about 4-5 minutes. This will help create a beautiful golden-brown crust.
4. Add Butter and Garlic:
Once the chops are nicely browned, flip them over. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet along with the crushed garlic cloves and thyme. The garlic will start to infuse the butter with flavor!
5. Baste for Extra Flavor:
As the butter melts, tilt the skillet slightly and use a spoon to continually baste the pork chops in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through (aim for an internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
6. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and place them on a plate. Let them rest for a few minutes; this keeps them juicy!
7. Make the Garlic Herb Butter Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan. Once melted, stir in the chopped parsley and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat). Make sure to coat the garlic pieces in the sauce!
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Spoon the delicious garlic herb butter sauce generously over the rested pork chops before serving. Enjoy your flavorful and juicy Garlic Butter Pork Chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! Just keep in mind that they will cook faster, so check for doneness around the 3-4 minute mark per side.
How Can I Make This Recipe Less Salty?
To reduce the saltiness, use unsalted butter and adjust the amount of salt you add to the pork chops. You can also replace some salt with herbs and spices for flavor without the sodium.
Can I Store Leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to help retain moisture.
What Can I Serve with Garlic Butter Pork Chops?
These chops pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a light salad. You can also serve them over rice or pasta to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce!
