Pan Seared Garlic Herb Pork Chops

Introduction

Pan Seared Garlic Herb Pork Chops is a simple yet flavorful dish that turns everyday pork into a restaurant-worthy meal. The pork chops are seared in a hot skillet to achieve a golden-brown crust, then basted with butter, garlic, and fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. This method locks in the juices, giving you pork chops that are tender inside and bursting with savory, herby flavors outside. It’s rustic, elegant, and incredibly satisfying.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it shows how minimal ingredients can create maximum flavor. The garlic herb butter makes the pork chops rich and aromatic, while searing in a cast-iron skillet gives them that irresistible caramelized crust. It’s fast enough for weeknights but feels fancy enough to serve to guests. Plus, it’s versatile—you can pair these chops with potatoes, rice, or fresh vegetables for a complete meal.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because:

• It’s quick and easy, ready in under 30 minutes.
• The garlic herb butter adds restaurant-quality flavor.
• It’s healthy and satisfying with simple, fresh ingredients.
• It’s versatile—serve it with many different sides.

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: ~360 kcal per serving (approx., varies by pork chop size and butter used)
• Cuisine: American / European-inspired
• Course: Main Course

Ingredients

• 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1-inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, smashed
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or thyme)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley or lemon wedges

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
2. Sear pork chops in hot oil until golden brown.
3. Add butter, garlic, and herbs, then baste chops while cooking.
4. Cook until pork reaches 145°F (63°C), then rest before serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

• Pat pork chops dry with paper towels.
• Season generously with salt and black pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet (cast-iron preferred) over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering.

Step 3: Sear the Pork Chops

• Place pork chops in the skillet and sear 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
• Reduce heat slightly to medium.

Step 4: Add Garlic Herb Butter

• Add butter, smashed garlic cloves, and rosemary sprigs to the skillet.
• Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the pork chops with the melted butter and herbs.
• Continue cooking 2–3 minutes, until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Step 5: Rest and Serve

• Transfer pork chops to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

How to Serve

• Serve with mashed potatoes, garlic butter rice, or roasted vegetables.
• Pair with a crisp green salad for a lighter meal.
• For extra indulgence, drizzle leftover garlic herb butter from the skillet over the pork.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet—work in batches if needed.
• Let pork come to room temperature before cooking for even searing.
• Always let meat rest after cooking to keep it juicy.
• Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the pan for extra flavor.

Variations

• Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops: Add grated Parmesan to the butter for a nutty twist.
• Spicy Garlic Herb Pork Chops: Add chili flakes or cayenne to the butter.
• Citrus Herb Pork Chops: Add lemon or orange zest for a fresh, zesty flavor.
• Thyme & Sage Pork Chops: Swap rosemary with thyme and sage for a more earthy flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked pork chops (wrapped tightly) for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or butter to keep them moist.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet (cast-iron recommended)
• Tongs
• Meat thermometer (optional, but ensures perfect doneness)
• Basting spoon

FAQ

Q1: Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, boneless work fine but may cook faster. Adjust time accordingly.

Q2: Do I have to use fresh herbs?
Fresh herbs give the best flavor, but dried herbs can be used in a pinch.

Q3: Can I make this in the oven?
Yes—sear pork chops first, then finish in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8–10 minutes.

Q4: How do I know when pork is done?
Use a meat thermometer—145°F (63°C) with a slight blush of pink inside is perfect.

Q5: Can I add vegetables to the skillet?
Yes, green beans, mushrooms, or asparagus can cook in the butter alongside the pork.

Conclusion

Pan Seared Garlic Herb Pork Chops is a recipe that proves simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. With golden seared pork, rich garlic herb butter, and aromatic rosemary, every bite is savory and satisfying. Quick to prepare yet elegant enough for special occasions, this dish is a must-have in your recipe collection. It’s the perfect way to bring restaurant-quality pork chops to your dinner table.