Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, quick to cook, and irresistibly juicy, you’re going to love this Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops recipe. These tender pork chops are cooked to perfection in a savory garlic butter sauce that adds richness and depth without overpowering the natural meatiness. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends over the weekend, these Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops deliver a restaurant-quality meal right on your stovetop with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you want delicious without the wait.
• Rich Garlic Butter Flavor: The buttery garlic sauce enhances the pork chops with deep, savory notes that melt in your mouth.
• Juicy and Tender: Pan searing locks in the pork’s natural juices to keep every bite moist and satisfying.
• Versatile Meal: Works well on its own or paired with a variety of sides to suit any taste or occasion.
• Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely already have, keeping it both budget-friendly and fuss-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, essential ingredients is key to making these Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops come alive. Each element plays a specific role, from infusing deep garlic flavor to achieving the perfect sear and creamy sauce texture.

• Pork chops: Choose bone-in or boneless, about 1-inch thick for the best texture and juiciness.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic adds sharpness and aroma that elevates the dish.
• Butter: Provides richness and a golden sauce that coats the pork perfectly.
• Olive oil: Prevents sticking and helps beautifully brown the pork chops.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance natural flavors.
• Fresh herbs: Thyme or parsley adds a fresh finish and subtle complexity.
• Lemon juice (optional): Adds brightness and balances the richness.

Variations for Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, letting you tweak ingredients to match your dietary preferences, available pantry items, or flavor cravings. Feel free to get creative and make it your own.

• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the butter sauce for heat.
• Herb swap: Use rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a different herbal profile.
• Mustard glaze: Mix a spoonful of Dijon mustard into the butter for tanginess.
• Dairy-free option: Use vegan butter or a high-quality olive oil instead of butter.
• Mushroom sauce: Add sautéed mushrooms to the pan for an earthy, umami-rich twist.

How to Make Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to ensure a beautiful sear, then season generously on both sides with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning creates a base for all other flavors to shine.

Step 2: Heat the Pan and Sear

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the pork chops and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, without moving them, to form a golden crust that locks in juices.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Butter

Reduce heat to medium and add the butter along with the minced garlic to the pan. Spoon the melting butter over the chops continuously for 2-3 minutes as the garlic infuses the sauce with its bold flavor.

Step 4: Finish with Fresh Herbs and Lemon

Add fresh thyme or parsley to the pan, continuing to baste the pork chops with the infused butter. If using, squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the chops for a fresh contrast that brightens the rich sauce.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Transfer the pork chops to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, resulting in an even juicier bite. Serve drizzled with the garlic butter sauce from the pan.

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops

• Dry your chops first: Helps ensure a delicious, crispy sear without steaming.
• Use room temperature meat: Allows even cooking and prevents toughness.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if needed to maintain heat and proper browning.
• Baste liberally: Spoon garlic butter over chops to build flavor and moisture.
• Let it rest: Crucial for juicy pork chops—skip this and you’ll lose precious juices.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the pork chops just before serving for a pop of color and freshness. A few lemon wedges on the side invite guests to add a zesty finish.

Side Dishes

These pork chops pair beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a crisp garden salad. The savory garlic butter sauce acts as a flavorful drizzle for your sides too.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, serve the chops on a wooden platter topped with extra garlic butter sauce and roasted garlic cloves. Add grilled lemon halves for plating flair and a subtle charred citrus aroma.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled pork chops in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Make sure to save any leftover garlic butter sauce separately to reheat alongside the chops.

Freezing

Wrap each pork chop tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve juiciness, adding a bit of reserved garlic butter to refresh the flavor. Avoid microwaving as it can dry out the pork.

FAQs

Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?

Absolutely! Boneless pork chops work well and cook slightly faster, just keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid overcooking.

How do I know when the pork chops are fully cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) followed by a 3-minute rest.

Can I prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time?

You can make the garlic butter sauce ahead and refrigerate it, then warm it up when cooking the chops for an easier dinner prep.

What if I don’t have fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but in a pinch, you can use garlic powder — about 1/4 teaspoon per clove as a substitute.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes! The pork chops reheat well and pair nicely with make-ahead sides, making them a convenient option for prepared meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Once you try these Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops, this recipe will become your go-to for an impressive, flavorful, and quick dinner that everyone loves. It’s an easy way to treat yourself and your family to tender pork chops glazed in a heavenly garlic butter sauce with minimal effort. Go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get cooking — your next favorite meal is waiting!

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