If you’re looking for a quick, juicy, and flavor-packed main dish, Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops are your new go-to. In under 30 minutes, you can serve a restaurant-worthy meal with rich garlic butter, golden seared crust, and tender, succulent meat. Perfect for weeknights or special dinners!
Whether you’re an experienced cook or a kitchen beginner, this recipe is both foolproof and fabulous.
Ingredients
To achieve perfectly seared pork chops drenched in garlic butter, you’ll need the following:
the pork chops:
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4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
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1 ½ teaspoons salt
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1 teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for searing)
the garlic butter sauce:
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3 tablespoons unsalted butter
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh thyme or rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried)
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Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)
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Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
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Cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed frying pan
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Tongs or spatula
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Meat thermometer (recommended for accuracy)
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Small saucepan (optional for pre-melting the garlic butter)
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
1: Prepare the Pork Chops
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Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel to remove moisture — this helps achieve a golden sear.
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Season both sides of the chops generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
2: Sear the Pork Chops
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Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
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Once the butter is melted and the pan is hot, add the pork chops.
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Sear undisturbed for 4–5 minutes on the first side until a deep golden crust forms.
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Flip the chops and reduce heat slightly. Cook the second side for 4–6 minutes, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
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Remove pork chops and let them rest on a plate tented with foil.
3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
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In the same pan, reduce heat to medium-low.
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Add 3 tablespoons of butter and let it melt.
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Stir in the minced garlic and herbs. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but not browned.
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Add lemon juice if using, and stir to combine.
4: Combine and Serve
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Return the rested pork chops to the pan and spoon garlic butter sauce over them.
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Let them warm through for 1–2 minutes while basting with the sauce.
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Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Pan Seared Pork Chops
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Choose the right cut: Bone-in pork chops are juicier and more flavorful, but boneless chops work great too — just be sure to adjust the cooking time.
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Avoid overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to prevent dry pork. Aim for 145°F (63°C) and let them rest to retain juices.
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Let them rest: Resting helps redistribute the juices throughout the meat, keeping the pork chops tender.
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Deglaze for extra flavor: Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the garlic butter for a richer sauce.
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Pairings: Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad to round out your main dish.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
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Calories: 380
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Protein: 32g
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Fat: 26g
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Carbohydrates: 2g
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Sugar: 0g
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Fiber: 0g
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Sodium: 600mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the cut of pork and exact ingredient measurements.
Why You’ll Love This Main Dish
Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops are everything you want in a main dish — bold flavor, juicy texture, and a buttery, aromatic finish. With simple ingredients and just one skillet, it’s an easy way to elevate your dinner game without extra fuss.
Whether you’re meal prepping or hosting dinner guests, this dish is sure to impress.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something satisfying and packed with flavor, give this Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops recipe a try. It’s a delicious main dish that brings comfort and elegance to your table in under 30 minutes.
Ready to sizzle your skillet and win dinner tonight? Bookmark this recipe and share it with friends who love bold, easy meals. Happy cooking!