Garlic Butter Pork Chops: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Dinner

Garlic Butter Pork Chops are a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of garlic and the savory goodness of perfectly cooked pork. As I prepare this recipe, I can’t help but think about how this dish has become a staple in many households, celebrated for its simplicity and mouthwatering taste. The combination of tender pork chops seared to perfection and bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce creates a symphony of flavors that is hard to resist.

Historically, pork has been a beloved protein in various cultures, often associated with hearty meals and family gatherings. The addition of garlic and butter elevates this dish, making it not just a meal, but an experience that brings people together. What I love most about Garlic Butter Pork Chops is their versatility; they can be served with a side of vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh salad, making them perfect for any occasion. The juicy texture of the pork, combined with the aromatic garlic and rich butter, creates a dish that is both comforting and indulgent. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried rosemary)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Juice of 1 lemon

Preparing the Pork Chops

1. **Choose the Right Pork Chops**: I like to use bone-in pork chops for this recipe because they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. If you prefer boneless, that works too, but adjust the cooking time slightly as they may cook faster. 2. **Season the Chops**: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps to get a nice sear. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper. I usually go for about 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of pepper per chop, but feel free to adjust based on your taste. 3. **Let Them Rest**: After seasoning, let the pork chops sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This helps them cook more evenly.

Preparing the Garlic Butter

4. **Melt the Butter**: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Be careful not to let it brown; we want it just melted. 5. **Add Garlic and Herbs**: Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Stir to combine and let it cook for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat and set aside.

Cooking the Pork Chops

6. **Heat the Pan**: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to shimmer but not smoke. 7. **Sear the Pork Chops**: Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook in batches. Sear the chops for about 4-5 minutes on one side without moving them. This will create a beautiful golden crust. 8. **Flip and Cook**: After 4-5 minutes, flip the pork chops over. Reduce the heat to medium and pour the garlic butter mixture over the chops. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, basting the chops with the butter using a spoon. This adds flavor and keeps them moist. 9. **Check for Doneness**: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork chops. They should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. If they need more time, continue cooking, checking every minute or so. 10. **Add Lemon Juice**: Once the pork chops are cooked through, squeeze the juice of one lemon over them. This brightens the flavors and adds a nice zing.

Resting and Serving

11. **Let Them Rest**: Remove the pork chops from the skillet and place them on a plate. Cover loosely with aluminum foil and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chops more tender. 12. **Garnish and Serve**: After resting, sprinkle the chopped parsley over the pork chops for a fresh touch. Serve them with your favorite sides—mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad work wonderfully.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Pork Chops

– **Choosing the Right Cut**: If you can, opt for pork chops that have a bit of marbling. This fat will render during cooking, keeping the meat juicy. – **Don’t Skip the Resting**: Resting the meat is crucial. It may be tempting to dig in right away, but letting it rest will make a noticeable difference in texture. – **Experiment with Flavors**: Feel free to add other herbs or spices to the garlic butter. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick, or you can swap out the herbs for your favorites.

Serving Suggestions

– **Sides**: I love serving these garlic butter pork chops with creamy mashed potatoes and sautéed green beans. The richness of the butter complements the sides perfectly. – **Wine Pairing**: A nice white wine, like a Chardonnay or a light red, such as Pinot Noir, pairs

Conclusion:

In summary, these Garlic Butter Pork Chops are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game. The combination of juicy, tender pork chops infused with rich garlic butter creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. For serving suggestions, I love pairing these pork chops with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the dish. You can also experiment with variations by adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra layer of flavor, or even tossing in some sautéed vegetables for a complete meal. I encourage you to give this Garlic Butter Pork Chops recipe a try and share your experience! I would love to hear how it turns out for you, any tweaks you made, or your favorite sides to serve alongside. Cooking is all about creativity and sharing, so don’t hesitate to spread the word and let others in on this delicious dish. Happy cooking! Print