GARLIC BUTTER PAN SEARED PORK CHOPS AMAZING

Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly cooked pork chop, its surface kissed with a golden-brown sear, each bite releasing a symphony of garlic and buttery goodness. This recipe for Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops delivers exactly that – a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. Get ready to create pork chops so delicious, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making them this way all along!

The Star Ingredients

What You’ll Need for the Perfect Pork Chops:

• Pork Chops: 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
• Butter: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• Garlic: 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
• Fresh Herbs: 2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary (optional, but highly recommended!)
• Salt and Pepper: To taste
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon (optional, for color and a hint of smokiness)
• Chicken Broth (or White Wine): 1/4 cup (for deglazing the pan, adds depth of flavor)
• Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (optional, for brightness)

Prepping for Pork Perfection

Choosing Your Pork Chops:

Let’s talk pork chops. Bone-in chops tend to be a bit more flavorful, as the bone adds richness during cooking. Boneless chops, on the other hand, cook a little faster and are easier to carve. Either works great for this recipe, so choose your favorite! Aim for chops that are about 1-inch thick for even cooking.

Bring Them to Room Temperature:

This is a crucial step! Take your pork chops out of the refrigerator about 20-30 minutes before cooking. Bringing them closer to room temperature helps them cook more evenly and prevents them from seizing up when they hit the hot pan. I know, it’s hard to wait, but trust me, it’s worth it!

Seasoning Like a Pro:

Don’t skimp on the seasoning! Generously season both sides of your pork chops with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Don’t be afraid to be liberal – this is what gives your chops that amazing flavor crust. Pat the seasoning into the meat to help it adhere.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s Get Cooking!

1. Heat the Pan: Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron is ideal!) over medium-high heat. You want the pan to be nice and hot before adding the pork chops. The butter should be melted and shimmering, but not smoking.
2. Sear the Pork Chops: Carefully place the pork chops in the hot pan, making sure not to overcrowd it. If necessary, cook the chops in batches. Sear them for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. This searing process is key to locking in the juices and creating that delicious flavor.
3. Add the Garlic and Herbs: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, minced garlic, and fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (if using) to the pan. Let the garlic cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Baste with Garlic Butter: Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to continuously baste the pork chops with the melted garlic butter. This infuses them with flavor and helps them cook evenly. Continue basting for another 2-3 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chop to ensure accuracy.
5. Deglaze the Pan (Optional, but Recommended!): Once the pork chops are cooked through, remove them from the pan and set them aside to rest on a plate, tented with foil. Add the chicken broth (or white wine) to the hot pan and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. This is where all the flavor is! Let the sauce simmer for a minute or two, until slightly reduced.
6. Finish the Sauce: Stir in the lemon juice (if using) into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Pour the garlic butter sauce over the pork chops and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.

Tips and Tricks for Pork Chop Perfection

Don’t Overcook!

The biggest mistake people make with pork chops is overcooking them! Pork is safe to eat at 145°F (63°C), so don’t be afraid to leave them slightly pink in the center. They’ll continue to cook slightly as they rest.

Resting is Essential:

Letting the pork chops rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking is crucial. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop. Tent them loosely with foil to keep them warm.

The Right Pan Matters:

A heavy-bottomed skillet, especially cast iron, is ideal for searing pork chops. It distributes heat evenly and retains heat well, which helps create that perfect crust. If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, any heavy-bottomed skillet will work.

Troubleshooting: Tough Pork Chops

If your pork chops are coming out tough, chances are they’re being overcooked. Investing in a meat thermometer is the best way to avoid this. Also, make sure you’re not using too high of heat, as this can cause the outside to burn before the inside is cooked through. Brining your pork chops for 30 minutes before cooking can also help tenderize them.

Serving Suggestions: Complete the Meal!

What to Serve with Your Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops:

These pork chops are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts are a healthy and delicious option.
• Rice Pilaf: A simple rice pilaf is a great way to soak up all that delicious garlic butter sauce.
• Salad: A fresh green salad provides a nice contrast to the richness of the pork chops.

Looking for other flavorful meal ideas? You might enjoy Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef, Garlic Parmesan Potato Chicken or maybe even some Ranch Garlic Chicken Skewers.

For pasta lovers, consider Garlic Parmesan Pasta Yeem or Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. If you are a big fan of sausages, check out Honey Garlic Sausage Perfection.

Variations and Adaptations

Spice It Up:

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a little kick.

Add Some Sweetness:

Stir a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup into the sauce for a touch of sweetness.

Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce:

Stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream into the sauce for an even richer and creamier sauce.

Storing and Reheating

Storing Leftovers:

Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating:

Reheat the pork chops in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they may become a bit dry. Avoid overheating to prevent them from becoming tough.

Final Thoughts

These Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops are truly a winner. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own signature version. Get ready to enjoy perfectly cooked, juicy, and flavorful pork chops every time!