Garlic Butter Pork Chops

Introduction

Garlic Butter Pork Chops are the ultimate combination of juicy, tender pork and rich, savory flavors. Pan-seared to golden perfection, these chops are then coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce that enhances their natural flavor. The garlic infuses the butter with an irresistible aroma, creating a dish that feels gourmet while still being quick and easy to prepare.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet elegant without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also versatile—you can serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or even fresh greens.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. The searing creates a beautiful golden crust while locking in the juices, and the garlic butter sauce is rich, comforting, and flavorful. What makes it even better is how quickly it comes together—you can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Quick and easy – Ready in 20–25 minutes.
• Rich flavor – Garlic and butter elevate the pork chops beautifully.
• Family favorite – Pairs with almost any side.
• Versatile – Works with bone-in or boneless chops.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings & Nutrition

• Servings: 4 pork chops
• Calories: ~380 calories per serving (varies depending on chop thickness and butter used)

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: American / Western
• Course: Main Course (Dinner / Lunch)

Ingredients

• 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1-inch thick)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, thyme, or rosemary)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• ½ cup chicken broth or white wine (optional, for extra sauce)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Season pork chops with salt, pepper, paprika, and herbs.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear pork chops 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. Add butter and garlic to the pan; spoon melted butter over chops.
5. Optional: deglaze with chicken broth or wine for a richer sauce.
6. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prep the pork chops – Pat them dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and herbs.
2. Heat skillet – Place a large skillet (cast-iron works best) over medium-high heat, add olive oil.
3. Sear chops – Once hot, add pork chops and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
4. Add garlic butter – Reduce heat slightly, add butter and minced garlic. As the butter melts, spoon it over the chops repeatedly for extra flavor.
5. Optional sauce – Add chicken broth or wine to deglaze the pan, stirring to scrape up flavorful bits. Let simmer 2–3 minutes.
6. Rest & serve – Remove from heat, let chops rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with parsley before serving.

How to Serve

• Serve with mashed potatoes, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
• Pair with a crisp side salad or buttered rice.
• Leftovers are delicious in sandwiches or sliced over pasta.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use bone-in pork chops for juicier results.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet—cook in batches if needed.
• A cast-iron skillet gives the best sear.
• Always rest the pork chops before serving to lock in juices.

Variations

• Creamy Garlic Butter Pork Chops – Add ½ cup heavy cream to the sauce.
• Spicy Garlic Butter Pork Chops – Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
• Herb Garlic Pork Chops – Use fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs in the butter.
• Honey Garlic Butter Pork Chops – Add 1 tbsp honey for a sweet-savory glaze.

Freezing & Storage

• Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked pork chops in airtight bags up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep chops moist.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet (preferably cast-iron)
• Tongs for flipping
• Meat thermometer (to check doneness)
• Small whisk (if making pan sauce)

FAQ

Q1: Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, but reduce cooking time slightly as they cook faster.

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

Q3: Can I bake instead of pan-searing?
Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, then finish with garlic butter sauce.

Q4: What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
Dried parsley or fresh chives also work as garnish.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Pork Chops are an easy, flavorful, and satisfying dish that you can make in less than 30 minutes. With their juicy sear, rich garlic butter sauce, and versatile serving options, they’re the perfect recipe to elevate a simple dinner into something truly memorable. This is a must-try dish for pork lovers and anyone craving comfort food with a gourmet twist.