Description
Tender, juicy pork chops seared in a skillet and basted with a rich garlic butter sauce. This quick, weeknight-friendly meal is naturally gluten-free and packed with savory flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 bone-in, thick-cut pork chops (1 to 1.5 inches thick)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4–6 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Remove pork chops from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Pat them completely dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with sea salt and black pepper.
- Place a heavy-bottomed skillet (such as cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and heat until it shimmers.
- Carefully place the pork chops in the hot pan. Do not move them for 3-4 minutes to allow a golden-brown crust to form. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the second side. If chops are very thick, lower heat slightly to ensure the center cooks.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the butter to the pan. Once melted, add the minced garlic and dried thyme. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn the garlic. Add red pepper flakes if using.
- Tilt the pan to pool the butter on one side. Use a spoon to continuously baste the pork chops with the hot garlic butter for 1-2 minutes.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 145°F (63°C). Remove chops from the pan and place on a warm plate. Cover loosely with foil and let rest for at least 5 minutes before serving.
- Spoon any remaining garlic butter from the pan over the chops just before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure a proper sear. Listen for a loud sizzle to ensure the pan is hot enough. Garlic burns quickly, so keep a close eye on it. Pork is safe to eat at 145°F with a slight pink center. Avoid microwaving leftovers as it can make the meat tough; reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pork chop with gar
- Calories: 450
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 32
- Saturated Fat: 14
- Carbohydrates: 1
- Protein: 35
Keywords: pork chops, garlic butter, gluten-free, quick dinner, weeknight meal, juicy pork, cast iron skillet, easy recipe