why make this recipe
This recipe is quick. It gives juicy pork chops with a garlic butter flavor. It uses few ingredients and simple steps. If you enjoy pork chop ideas, try garlic parmesan pork chops with cheesy scalloped potatoes for another tasty option.
introduction
Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops are easy and fast. The pork chops get a brown crust and stay tender inside. Garlic and butter add a rich, familiar taste. You can make this for a weeknight dinner or a small gathering.
how to make Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops
Start by getting your ingredients ready. Season the pork chops well. Heat the pan and melt butter. Add garlic for a short time so it smells good but does not burn. Sear the pork chops until they are golden on each side and cooked through. Let them rest a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs.
Ingredients :
4 pork chops, 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, 4 cloves garlic, minced, Salt and pepper to taste, Fresh herbs (such as thyme or parsley) for garnish
Directions :
- Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Place the pork chops in the skillet and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from heat and let sit for a couple of minutes.
- Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
how to serve Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops
Serve the pork chops with a simple side. Good choices: steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a green salad. Spoon any melted garlic butter left in the pan over the chops. Serve warm.
how to store Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops
Cool leftovers to room temperature but no longer than two hours. Put in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat or in the oven to keep them tender.
tips to make Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops
- Pat the pork chops dry before seasoning. This helps a good sear.
- Use medium-high heat to brown the outside without overcooking inside.
- Do not burn the garlic; add it just before the pork and watch closely.
- Let the chops rest a few minutes after cooking to keep juices inside.
variation (if any)
- Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
- Use rosemary instead of thyme for a different herb note.
- For cream sauce, add a splash of cream to the pan juices and simmer for a minute.
FAQs
Q: How thick should the pork chops be?
A: About 1 inch thick works best. Thinner chops cook too fast and may dry out.
Q: How do I know the pork is cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer. Pork is safe at 145°F (63°C). Or cut to check that juices run clear.
Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
A: Yes. If you use salted butter, reduce added salt when seasoning the chops.
Q: Can I cook this in the oven instead of stovetop?
A: You can sear first on the stove and finish in a 400°F oven for a few minutes if the chops are thick.
Q: Can I freeze the cooked pork chops?
A: Yes. Cool, wrap well, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Description
Quick and easy garlic butter pan-seared pork chops that are juicy and flavorful.
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme or parsley) for garnish
Instructions
- Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Place the pork chops in the skillet and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from heat and let sit for a couple of minutes.
- Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Notes
Pat the pork chops dry before seasoning for a better sear. Use medium-high heat to avoid overcooking the inside. Let the chops rest after cooking to keep juices inside.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pork chop
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg