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Garlic Butter Pork Chops

Garlic Butter Pork Chops

Garlic Butter Pork Chops offer a perfect blend of juicy, tender pork infused with rich garlic and creamy butter flavors. This quick and easy recipe transforms basic pork chops into a gourmet, golden-crisp meal that’s flavorful, moist, and perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 bone-in or boneless pork chops, about 1 inch thick
  • 4 garlic cloves, fresh minced
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (or your choice of fresh herbs)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Season the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove any moisture, which helps in achieving a golden crust. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper, making sure the seasoning penetrates the meat for maximum flavor.
  2. Sear the Pork Chops: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the pork chops and sear each side for 3-4 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms. Avoid overcrowding the pan to allow even cooking. Remove the chops and set aside once seared.
  3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Let it melt, then add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute while stirring constantly to prevent burning. Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, stirring to infuse the butter with their flavor.
  4. Finish Cooking the Pork Chops in Butter: Return the pork chops to the skillet. Spoon the garlic butter sauce over each piece and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes depending on thickness, basting regularly to keep them moist and flavorful. If desired, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps juices redistribute, ensuring maximum juiciness. Drizzle any leftover garlic butter sauce over the chops and serve.

Notes

  • Use room temperature meat by letting pork chops sit out for 20 minutes before cooking for even cooking.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure proper searing instead of steaming.
  • Use medium-high heat to seal in the meat’s juices without burning the garlic butter sauce.
  • Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary significantly enhance aroma and flavor.
  • Rest the meat after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Optional: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne for a spicy kick.
  • Optional: Swap herbs such as sage, oregano, or basil for flavor variation.
  • Optional: Top with Parmesan or mozzarella cheese near the end for a cheesy twist.
  • This recipe is naturally gluten-free; just ensure seasoning blends contain no gluten.
  • Optional: Add lemon zest alongside juice for intensified citrus flavor.

Nutrition

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