If you're looking for a quick and mouthwatering dinner that will impress your family and friends, look no further than these Skillet Garlic Butter Pork Chops! In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a savory dish that features tender, juicy pork chops seared to perfection and bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this recipe is bound to become a weeknight favorite. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 pork chops, 4 tablespoons of butter, 4 cloves of garlic (minced), 1 teaspoon of thyme, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Take the pork chops out of the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This helps them cook more evenly.
- While the pork chops are resting, season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This enhances the flavor of the meat.
- In a large skillet, preferably cast iron, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat until melted and bubbling.
- Once the butter is hot, carefully place the seasoned pork chops in the skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook in batches.
- Sear the pork chops for about 3-4 minutes on one side without moving them, until they develop a nice golden-brown crust.
- Flip the pork chops and reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet along with the minced garlic and thyme.
- As the butter melts, use a spoon to baste the pork chops with the garlic butter mixture. Continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and transfer them to a plate. Cover loosely with foil to keep warm while you finish the sauce.
- In the same skillet, stir the garlic and herbs into the remaining butter for about a minute, allowing the flavors to meld. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour the garlic butter sauce over the pork chops on the plate.
- Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy chop.
- Serve the skillet garlic butter pork chops with your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables, and enjoy!
Tips
- Room Temperature Chops: Always let your pork chops sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper! Generously seasoning the pork chops enhances their natural flavor and results in a more delicious meal.
- Use a Cast Iron Skillet: For the best sear, opt for a cast iron skillet. It retains heat well and creates that perfect golden-brown crust on your pork chops.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re cooking more than four chops, do it in batches. Overcrowding can cause the temperature to drop, preventing a good sear.
- Baste for Flavor: While cooking, use a spoon to baste the pork chops with the garlic butter mixture. This infuses them with incredible flavor and keeps them moist.
- Check Internal Temperature: To ensure your pork chops are perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Let Them Rest: After cooking, allow the pork chops to rest for a few minutes. This step is crucial for juicy chops, as it lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
- Pair with Sides: These pork chops are versatile! Serve them with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 310kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 95mg
