These garlic butter pork chops are juicy and packed with flavor! Cooking them in a skillet gives them a nice, golden finish that is hard to resist.
I love how the rich garlic butter sauce makes every bite heavenly. Pair them with mashed potatoes, and you have a comforting meal that warms the heart! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless are easier to cook, but bone-in chops tend to be more flavorful and juicy. I recommend going with whichever is available for you. If you want a leaner option, you can use turkey cutlets!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor but pre-minced garlic or garlic powder can work in a pinch. If you love garlic, don’t hesitate to add more cloves for extra punch!
Thyme: Fresh thyme is delightful, but dried thyme is a great substitute. You could also try rosemary or oregano if you’re out of thyme. These herbs add a nice aromatic flavor!
Smoked Paprika: This is optional but adds a lovely subtle smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or cayenne (for heat!) can be used instead. Just adjust the amount to your taste!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Seared Pork Chops?
Searing your pork chops is key to locking in flavor and moisture. Here are the steps to get that perfect crust:
- Always start with dry chops; pat them well with paper towels. This helps them brown beautifully.
- Heat your oil until it’s hot but not smoking before adding the chops. If oil splatters, it’s too hot.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; if necessary, cook in batches. This ensures proper searing and browning.
- Don’t move your chops around while they’re cooking. Let them sit for a few minutes to form a crust.
Following these tips will help you get juicy, perfectly cooked pork chops every time!
Garlic Butter Pork Chops in a Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation and 15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you can have a delicious meal ready in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice, brown crust. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and if you like, a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra flavor.
2. Searing the Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot and shimmering (but not smoking), carefully add the pork chops. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they’re beautifully golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 145°F/63°C). When done, transfer the chops to a plate and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium in the same skillet. Add the butter and let it melt. Once it’s melted and bubbling, stir in the minced garlic and thyme leaves. Cook this for about 1-2 minutes, stirring often, until the garlic is fragrant and slightly golden—not too brown, though, or it may become bitter!
4. Combine and Flavor:
Now, return the pork chops to the skillet. Spoon the garlic butter sauce generously over the chops, and let them cook together for another minute to absorb all those delicious flavors.
5. Finish and Serve:
Once everything is warm and well-coated, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your pork chops with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve them hot and drizzle any remaining garlic butter sauce over the top. They’re perfect alongside mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables!
Enjoy your meal! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat?
Absolutely! While pork chops are recommended, you can also use pork loin or tenderloin. Just adjust the cooking time as these cuts may vary in thickness.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Juicy?
Prevent overcooking by using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F/63°C. Additionally, allowing the chops to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps retain their juices!
Can I Make This Recipe Without Garlic?
While garlic adds fantastic flavor, you can omit it if needed. You might want to substitute with shallots, or simply use herbs like rosemary or basil to enhance the dish further!
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of broth for moisture if necessary.
