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Garlic Butter Pork Chops Recipe Easy Juicy Pan-Seared Perfection

garlic butter pork chops - featured image

This garlic butter pork chops recipe delivers juicy, tender pork chops with a crispy, buttery garlic crust. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 45 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 23 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. (5 minutes)
  2. In a small bowl, combine softened unsalted butter with the minced garlic. Set aside to meld flavors. (5 minutes)
  3. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil and heat until shimmering but not smoking. (3 minutes)
  4. Carefully place pork chops in the hot skillet without overcrowding. Sear for 4-5 minutes without moving to form a deep golden-brown crust. Flip and sear the other side for 4 minutes. (8-10 minutes)
  5. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic butter mixture and fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs to the pan. Continuously baste pork chops with melted butter for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature; aim for 145°F (63°C). If not reached, lower heat and cook another 1-2 minutes, basting continuously. (2-3 minutes)
  7. Remove pork chops and set aside to rest. Deglaze skillet with chicken broth or white wine, scraping browned bits. Simmer and reduce for about 2 minutes. Add lemon juice. (5 minutes)
  8. Serve pork chops with garlic butter pan sauce spooned over and garnish with fresh herb sprig. Let chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat pork chops dry before seasoning to ensure a good crust. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. Use a mix of olive oil and butter to prevent burning. Continuously baste with garlic butter for moist, flavorful chops. Rest meat for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Nutrition

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