Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops (20-Minutes)

When it comes to quick, flavor-packed dinners, nothing beats these Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops. Perfectly seasoned, golden-brown on the outside, juicy on the inside, and smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce — this 20-minute meal is comfort food done right.

This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining. Using simple pantry ingredients and one skillet, you can create restaurant-quality pork chops that pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, vegetables, or rice.

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Ingredients Overview: What You’ll Need

For the Pork Chops:

• Pork Chops – Boneless or bone-in, about 1 inch thick for best results. Bone-in chops stay juicy, while boneless cook a bit faster.

• Olive Oil or Avocado Oil – High smoke-point oil for perfect searing.

• Butter – Adds richness and helps form that golden crust.

• Garlic – Freshly minced or smashed cloves for an aromatic sauce.

• Fresh Herbs (Optional) – Thyme, rosemary, or parsley complement the buttery garlic flavor.

• Salt & Pepper – The foundation of a good sear.

• Paprika (Optional) – Adds color and subtle smokiness.

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Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

1. Pat pork chops dry with paper towels — this helps them sear beautifully.

2. Season generously on both sides with:

   • 1 teaspoon salt

   • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

   • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)

   • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for deeper flavor)

Let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cooking.

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Step 2: Heat the Skillet

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Once the butter starts foaming and the oil shimmers, add the pork chops.

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Step 3: Sear the Pork Chops

1. Place pork chops in the pan and don’t move them for 3–4 minutes — this builds that golden crust.

2. Flip and sear the other side for another 3–4 minutes.

3. For thicker cuts, reduce heat to medium and cook an additional 2–3 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Pro Tip: Use tongs to sear the edges for a minute if the chops are thick and have fat caps.

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Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add:

   • 2 tablespoons butter

   • 3–4 cloves garlic, minced or smashed

   • 2 sprigs of thyme or rosemary (optional)

2. Swirl the butter around as it melts, spooning it over the pork chops repeatedly for 1–2 minutes (“basting”).

3. The butter will foam slightly and the garlic will turn lightly golden — that’s when you know it’s perfect.

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Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This keeps the juices locked in.

2. Drizzle the pan’s garlic butter sauce over the top.

3. Garnish with chopped parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice (optional) for brightness.

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Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

Tips for Perfect Pan-Seared Pork Chops:

• Dry the Pork: Moisture prevents browning — always pat dry before searing.

• Use Cast Iron: For the best crust and even heat distribution.

• Don’t Overcook: Pork should be juicy with a slightly pink center. Remove from heat at 140°F and let rest to reach 145°F.

• Baste, Don’t Burn: Keep heat moderate when adding garlic and butter to avoid burning.

Variations:

• Honey Garlic Pork Chops: Add 1 tablespoon honey to the butter sauce for a sweet glaze.

• Creamy Garlic Sauce: After removing the pork, stir 1/4 cup heavy cream into the skillet sauce for a creamy finish.

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter.

• Herb Upgrade: Mix parsley, thyme, and sage for an aromatic compound butter twist.

Substitutions:

• No Butter? Use ghee or a blend of butter and olive oil.

• Garlic Powder Alternative: Substitute with shallots or onions if you prefer milder flavor.

• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter or olive oil for a lighter, dairy-free option.

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Serving Ideas & Best Occasions

When to Serve:

• Weeknight Dinner: Fast, filling, and ready in 20 minutes.

• Family Meals: A hit with both kids and adults.

• Dinner Parties: Elegant enough for guests but simple to make.

What to Serve With It:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Soak up every drop of buttery sauce.

• Roasted Vegetables – Carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts pair beautifully.

• Rice Pilaf or Couscous – A light grain base to balance the richness.

• Fresh Green Salad – To keep the meal balanced and fresh.

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Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: 370

• Fat: 25g

• Carbs: 2g

• Protein: 32g

• Fiber: 0g

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use bone-in pork chops?

Absolutely. Bone-in chops stay juicier and more flavorful but may need 1–2 extra minutes of cooking per side.

2. Can I make this recipe with thin pork chops?

Yes! For thin chops (½ inch thick), reduce cooking time to about 2 minutes per side to avoid overcooking.

3. Can I use this method for other meats?

Definitely — this garlic butter technique works wonders on chicken breasts, steak, or even salmon.

4. How do I know when my pork is done?

Use a meat thermometer. Pork is safe to eat at 145°F (63°C) and should rest for 5 minutes before serving.

5. What if my pork chops turned out dry?

They were likely overcooked. Next time, remove from heat at 140°F — the temperature will rise as it rests.

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