Garlic Butter Smothered Pork Chops

Introduction

Garlic Butter Smothered Pork Chops are a decadent, comfort-food dish that transforms simple pork chops into a tender, flavorful meal. Pan-seared pork chops are smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce that’s savory, aromatic, and irresistibly creamy. I love this recipe because it delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort, and the garlic butter sauce perfectly complements the natural juiciness of the pork chops. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that will quickly become a family favorite.

Why I Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Flavorful: Garlic and butter create a luscious, aromatic sauce that elevates the pork chops.
2. Juicy Pork Chops: Proper searing locks in moisture, keeping each chop tender and flavorful.
3. Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for weeknight dinners.
4. Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy, buttery, and savory—perfect for pairing with mashed potatoes or rice.

Why You Must Try This Dish

This dish is a must-try because it transforms ordinary pork chops into a rich and satisfying meal. The garlic butter sauce adds a depth of flavor that is both comforting and indulgent, while the pan-seared pork chops remain tender and juicy. Perfect for family dinners, date nights, or any time you want a cozy, flavorful dish, these smothered pork chops are guaranteed to impress.

Preparation Time & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~420 kcal per serving

Cuisine and Course

• Cuisine: American / Comfort Food
• Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops

• 4 boneless pork chops (1-inch thick)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves)
• Optional: 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil and sear pork chops in a skillet until golden and cooked through; remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
4. Add chicken broth, cream, thyme, and optional Dijon mustard; simmer until slightly thickened.
5. Return pork chops to the skillet, spoon sauce over them, and cook for 2–3 minutes.
6. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

• Pat pork chops dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear Pork Chops

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Sear pork chops 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
• Remove chops from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make Garlic Butter Sauce

• In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
• Add minced garlic and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, and optional Dijon mustard.
• Simmer 3–4 minutes until sauce slightly thickens.

Step 4: Smother Pork Chops

• Return pork chops to the skillet.
• Spoon sauce over the pork chops, coating them generously.
• Simmer 2–3 minutes to let flavors meld.

Step 5: Serve

• Plate pork chops, drizzle with extra garlic butter sauce, and garnish with chopped parsley.
• Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.

How to Serve

• Serve hot as a main course with sides that soak up the garlic butter sauce.
• Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or crusty bread.
• Optional: serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for balance.

Additional Recipe Tips

1. Do Not Overcook Pork Chops: Cook until just done to avoid dryness.
2. Use Fresh Garlic: For the best flavor, use fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder.
3. Thicken Sauce: Simmer a little longer or add a teaspoon of cornstarch slurry if desired.
4. Rest Meat: Allow pork chops to rest 2–3 minutes before serving for juicier results.

Variations

• Mushroom Garlic Butter Pork Chops: Add sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy touch.
• Herb Variation: Substitute thyme with rosemary or oregano.
• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Lemon Butter Version: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a citrusy twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Cooked Pork Chops: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
• Sauce: Can be stored separately for up to 2 days in the fridge. Reheat and stir before serving.
• Freezing: Not recommended for the sauce, but cooked pork chops without sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Tongs or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

FAQ

Q1: Can I use bone-in pork chops?
A: Yes, but increase cooking time slightly and ensure internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, cook pork chops and prepare sauce separately. Reheat and combine before serving.

Q3: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
A: Yes, but the sauce will be slightly lighter and less creamy.

Q4: How do I prevent sauce from burning?
A: Cook over medium heat and stir frequently once cream is added.

Q5: Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
A: Fresh garlic is preferred, but 1 tsp garlic powder can be used in a pinch.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Smothered Pork Chops are a quick, indulgent, and flavorful meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions. Juicy pork chops bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce create a dish that’s comforting, satisfying, and irresistible. Easy to prepare, visually appealing, and packed with flavor, this recipe is a must-try for pork lovers seeking a simple yet luxurious dinner.