Garlic Butter Pork Chops Recipe

Sizzling Garlic Butter Pork Chops Recipe for Juicy Dinner Magic

Juicy and succulent garlic butter pork chops promise a culinary adventure that’ll make your taste buds dance with excitement.

Aromatic herbs mingle with rich, melted butter to create a mouthwatering experience.

Crispy edges and tender meat guarantee a perfect dinner solution for busy nights.

Skilled home cooks can master this simple yet impressive dish in minutes.

Salt and pepper become magical ingredients that enhance the natural flavors of premium pork.

Each bite delivers a comforting warmth that feels like a delicious hug from your kitchen.

You’ll want to savor every single morsel of this irresistible meal.

Why Garlic Butter Pork Chops Always Hit The Spot

  • Master Flavor Fusion: Combine rich garlic butter with tender pork chops for an explosion of mouthwatering taste that transforms an ordinary meal into a restaurant-quality experience.
  • Quick Cooking Magic: Prepare this delectable dish in mere minutes with simple ingredients and minimal cooking skills, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or spontaneous cooking adventures.
  • Customize Your Comfort: Adjust spice levels with red pepper flakes, swap herbs, or modify seasoning to match personal preferences, creating a versatile recipe that adapts to individual tastes and dietary needs.
  • One-Pan Wonder: Minimize kitchen cleanup by using a single skillet for searing, creating a delicious sauce, and serving, which saves time and reduces dishwashing hassle.

What You’ll Need For Garlic Butter Pork Chops

Main Protein:
  • Pork Chops: Tender cuts of meat that serve as the primary protein for this flavorful dish.
Seasoning Blend:
  • Salt, Black Pepper, Paprika: Classic seasonings that enhance the natural flavor of the pork and create a delicious crust.
Cooking Fats and Aromatics:
  • Olive Oil: Helps create a perfect sear and prevents the pork chops from sticking to the pan.
  • Butter: Adds richness and creates a luxurious sauce with garlic and herbs.
  • Minced Garlic: Provides a bold, aromatic flavor that complements the pork.
Herb and Spice Blend:
  • Thyme, Rosemary: Fresh herbs that bring earthy and woodsy notes to the dish.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Optional ingredient that adds a subtle heat and depth of flavor.
Finishing Touches:
  • Lemon Juice: Brightens the dish with a fresh, tangy accent.
  • Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal note as a garnish.

How To Cook Garlic Butter Pork Chops Perfectly

Step 1: Prep the Pork Chops

Use paper towels to completely dry the pork chops. Generously season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika, creating a delicious flavor coating that will enhance the meat’s natural taste.

Step 2: Fire Up the Skillet

Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pour a splash of olive oil to create a perfect searing surface.

The pan should be hot enough to create a beautiful golden crust on the pork chops.

Step 3: Create a Golden Sear

Carefully place the seasoned pork chops into the hot skillet.

Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a rich, caramel-brown color. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F for perfectly cooked meat.

Step 4: Build the Flavor Base

Lower the heat to low and add butter to the pan. Watch as it melts and creates a luxurious sauce base.

Step 5: Infuse With Aromatic Herbs

Quickly add the following ingredients:
  • Minced garlic
  • Fresh thyme
  • Rosemary
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Stir these ingredients for about 30 seconds until the kitchen fills with an incredible fragrant aroma.

Step 6: Finish With Bright Citrus

Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the pork chops.

Spoon the rich, herby garlic butter sauce generously over the meat, ensuring every inch is coated with flavor.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Remove the skillet from heat.

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve the pork chops immediately while they’re piping hot and the sauce is still bubbling.

Tips To Nail Garlic Butter Pork Chops Every Time

  • Choose thick-cut pork chops for juicier results and better searing.
  • Pat meat completely dry before seasoning to achieve perfect golden-brown crust.
  • Let pork chops rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to lock in moisture and tenderness.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes based on spice preference, adding more or less as desired.
  • Use fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary for maximum flavor and aromatic profile.

Tasty Changes For Garlic Butter Pork Chops

  • Herb Crusted Pork Chops: Coat pork chops with a mixture of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and parsley before searing for an extra herbal flavor profile.
  • Mustard Glazed Version: Replace lemon juice with Dijon mustard and honey to create a tangy and sweet coating over the pork chops.
  • Spicy Cajun Style: Swap paprika with Cajun seasoning and add cayenne pepper for a bold, zesty southwestern kick to the recipe.
  • Mediterranean Inspired: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese and chopped kalamata olives into the garlic butter sauce for a Greek-inspired variation.

Side Picks For Garlic Butter Pork Chops

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio perfectly complement the garlic butter's rich flavors, cutting through the pork's richness with their bright, acidic notes.
  • Match with Roasted Vegetables: Herbed roasted asparagus or garlic-infused Brussels sprouts echo the dish's herbaceous undertones and provide a balanced, nutritious side dish.
  • Create Rustic Bread Accompaniment: Crusty sourdough or focaccia becomes an ideal partner for soaking up the delectable garlic butter sauce, enhancing the overall dining experience.
  • Select Zesty Salad Pairing: Light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds fresh, peppery contrast to the savory pork chops, balancing the meal's flavor profile.

Store Garlic Butter Pork Chops Without Hassle

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, ensuring they're completely cooled before sealing.
  • Microwave Reheating: Place pork chops on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature and moisture to avoid overcooking.
  • Oven Reheating: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place pork chops in a baking dish, add a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture. Cover with foil and warm for 10-15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
  • Freezer Storage: Wrap individual pork chops tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.

FAQs On Garlic Butter Pork Chops

  • How do I know when my pork chops are perfectly cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 145°F. The meat should be golden brown on the outside and slightly pink in the center for juicy, tender results.

  • Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?

Yes, you can substitute dried herbs. Use about one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh. For example, if the recipe calls for 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, use 1 teaspoon dried thyme.

  • What type of pan works best for searing pork chops?

A heavy-bottomed skillet like cast iron or stainless steel works best. These pans distribute heat evenly and help create a perfect golden-brown crust on the pork chops.

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Garlic Butter Pork Chops Recipe

Garlic Butter Pork Chops Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 29 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 2 1x

Description

Succulent garlic butter pork chops deliver rich Mediterranean flavors that dance across dinner plates with irresistible charm. Hearty proteins kissed by golden butter and aromatic garlic promise a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Meat:

  • 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1-inch thick)

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Herbs and Aromatics:

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

Cooking Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Thoroughly dry pork chops using paper towels, ensuring surfaces are completely moisture-free.
  2. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and paprika, creating an even coating.
  3. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat, adding olive oil to create a hot cooking surface.
  4. Carefully place seasoned pork chops into the skillet, allowing them to sear for 3-4 minutes until achieving a rich golden-brown crust.
  5. Flip chops and continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes, monitoring internal temperature to reach 145°F for perfect doneness.
  6. Reduce heat to low and introduce butter, allowing it to melt smoothly in the pan.
  7. Quickly incorporate minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes, stirring rapidly to prevent burning and release aromatic flavors.
  8. Splash lemon juice across the pork chops, creating a bright, tangy undertone.
  9. Generously spoon the infused garlic butter sauce over the meat, ensuring complete coverage.
  10. Remove skillet from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finishing touch.
  11. Serve immediately while the pork chops remain warm and the sauce is at its most flavorful.

Notes

  • Ensure pork chops are completely dry before seasoning to achieve a perfect golden-brown crust and prevent steaming instead of searing.
  • Select bone-in pork chops for extra flavor and juiciness, which help retain moisture during cooking.
  • Use a meat thermometer to accurately check doneness and prevent overcooking, keeping the meat tender and succulent.
  • Adapt the recipe for low-carb or keto diets by using grass-fed butter and skipping any additional sugary ingredients.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 425
  • Sugar: 0.5 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 1 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 105 mg
Mia Thompson

Mia Thompson

Pastry Chef & Content Creator

Expertise

  • Creating wholesome, seasonal desserts with a focus on nutrition.
  • Developing recipes on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Experimenting with plant-based and gluten-free recipes.​

Education

Portland Community College – Baking and Pastry Arts Program
Specialized in artisanal bread, seasonal desserts, and sustainable baking methods.

National University of Natural Medicine – Bachelor of Science in Nutrition (BScN)
Focused on “Food as Medicine” philosophy, with core threads in nutrition.


Mia’s love affair with baking began in her grandmother’s kitchen, where sneaking spoonfuls of batter first sparked her curiosity. She refined her skills through Portland Community College’s Baking and Pastry Arts Program and her expertise at the National University of Natural Medicine, earning a B.Sc. in Nutrition.
At The Scrumptious Pumpkin, Mia reimagines classics with effortless seasonal treats, healthier twists on old favorites, and playful confections that feel like pure joy. Beyond the oven, she nurtures her urban garden, forages local ingredients around Portland, and leads hands‑on nutrition workshops for her community.

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