Garlic Butter Skillet Pork Chops

Introduction

Garlic Butter Skillet Pork Chops are a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dinner that’s perfect for weeknights or a special meal. These pork chops are seared to golden perfection and then basted with a rich garlic butter sauce that infuses every bite with incredible flavor. The result is tender, juicy meat with a buttery, garlicky coating that’s irresistible. This recipe is simple but delivers restaurant-quality taste right from your own skillet, making it a staple for anyone who loves easy, flavorful comfort food.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick, simple, and packed with bold flavor. The garlic butter sauce adds a rich depth that makes even a simple pork chop taste gourmet. Seared perfectly in a skillet, the chops stay juicy and tender, and the aroma of butter and garlic filling the kitchen is unbeatable. It’s a recipe that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting, flavorful meal without a lot of fuss.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This Garlic Butter Skillet Pork Chops recipe is a must-try because it elevates a simple pork chop into a flavor-packed, restaurant-quality dish. The combination of seared meat and aromatic garlic butter sauce creates a perfect balance of savory richness and subtle sweetness. It’s versatile, quick to make, and pairs wonderfully with vegetables, potatoes, or rice. Anyone who enjoys rich, savory, and aromatic meals will fall in love with this dish.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
• Total Time: 25–30 minutes
• Servings: 2–4 servings (depending on chop size)
• Calories: Approximately 400 kcal per serving

Cuisine & Course

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

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops:

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp paprika (optional for color and flavor)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
• 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional for brightness)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Chopped parsley
• Lemon wedges

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Season pork chops with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear pork chops 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low, add butter, garlic, and herbs.
5. Baste pork chops with garlic butter for 2–3 minutes until fully cooked.
6. Remove from skillet, rest for 3–5 minutes, and serve garnished with parsley and lemon.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Season the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using).

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

Add olive oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow it to heat until shimmering.

Step 3: Sear the Pork Chops

Place pork chops in the skillet without overcrowding. Sear 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step 4: Add Garlic Butter and Herbs

Reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter, minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the pork chops with the melted garlic butter for 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

Check the internal temperature of pork chops with a meat thermometer; it should read 145°F (63°C).

Step 6: Rest the Meat

Remove chops from the skillet and let them rest for 3–5 minutes to retain juices.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Serve with your favorite sides.

How to Serve

• Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or garlic green beans.
• Pair with rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
• Drizzle extra garlic butter from the skillet over the chops for added richness.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Pat pork chops dry before cooking to achieve a perfect sear.
• Do not overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary.
• Use fresh herbs for the most aromatic flavor.
• Basting chops with butter ensures juiciness and adds richness.
• Let the meat rest to keep it tender and juicy.

Variations

1. Spicy Garlic Butter Pork Chops:
   Add crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce.
2. Creamy Garlic Pork Chops:
   Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream into the garlic butter for a creamy sauce.
3. Lemon Herb Pork Chops:
   Add more lemon juice and zest for a bright, fresh flavor.
4. Mushroom Garlic Butter Pork Chops:
   Sauté sliced mushrooms with garlic in the butter for an earthy twist.
5. Parmesan Garlic Pork Chops:
   Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over the pork chops before serving.

Freezing and Storage

• To Store: Refrigerate cooked pork chops in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• To Freeze: Freeze cooked pork chops for up to 2 months.
• To Reheat: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or frying pan (preferably cast iron)
• Tongs for flipping
• Meat thermometer (for perfect doneness)
• Spoon for basting

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, they cook slightly faster than bone-in chops. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

Q2: How do I know when pork chops are done?
Use a meat thermometer — the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Q3: Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but 1 tsp garlic powder can be used in a pinch.

Q4: Can this be made in advance?
Yes, pork chops can be seasoned and cooked ahead, then reheated gently.

Q5: How do I make the sauce thicker?
Remove the pork chops after cooking and simmer the butter and garlic for 1–2 minutes to slightly thicken before drizzling.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Skillet Pork Chops are a simple yet flavorful meal that brings a restaurant-quality experience to your home kitchen. Juicy, tender pork chops coated in rich garlic butter and herbs make every bite comforting and delicious. Quick to prepare and versatile, this dish is perfect for weeknights, special dinners, or anytime you crave a hearty, flavorful meal. Once you try it, these pork chops will quickly become a family favorite.