Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops
These Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops feature a golden, caramelized crust with a juicy, tender center, finished in a rich garlic butter sauce infused with fresh herbs. Ready in just 20 minutes, this skillet recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.
Equipment
- large skillet
- tongs
- meat thermometer
Ingredients
- 4 thick-cut pork chops (boneless or bone-in)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary
Instructions
- Pat pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add pork chops and sear undisturbed for 4–5 minutes until a golden crust forms.
- Flip pork chops and cook another 4–5 minutes until cooked through.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add butter, garlic, and herbs to the skillet.
- Spoon melted garlic butter over the pork chops for 1–2 minutes, basting continuously.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 3 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use thick-cut pork chops for best results. Let the meat rest after cooking to retain juices. Adjust heat carefully once butter is added to prevent burning.