When it comes to quick and delicious weeknight dinners, it’s hard to beat the simplicity and flavor of Garlic Butter Pork Chops. This recipe elevates a humble pork chop into a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to become a new family favorite. The combination of tender pork, savory garlic butter, and a fresh parsley garnish creates a dish that’s both comforting and restaurant-worthy.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Pork Chops
To make this Garlic Butter Pork Chops recipe, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- Pork Chops: Opt for 1-inch thick boneless or bone-in pork chops for the best texture and flavor.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is the base for the garlic butter sauce.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a fragrant, savory punch to the dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Classic seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the pork.
- Olive Oil: A small amount of olive oil is used to sear the pork chops.
- Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley provides a bright, herbal garnish.
Preparation Steps for Garlic Butter Pork Chops
Seasoning the Pork Chops
Start by seasoning the pork chops generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This simple step ensures the pork has a flavorful crust and juicy interior when cooked.
Searing the Pork Chops
Heat a skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add a touch of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned pork chops and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until they develop a golden-brown crust. This quick sear locks in the juices and adds depth of flavor.
Making the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant and starts to turn golden. The warm, buttery garlic sauce will infuse the pork chops with irresistible flavor.
Finishing Cooking the Pork Chops
Return the seared pork chops to the skillet and spoon the garlic butter sauce over the top. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Pork Chops
These Garlic Butter Pork Chops pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish. The garlic butter sauce is also delicious when drizzled over rice or pasta. Don’t forget to sprinkle the chops with the fresh chopped parsley for a vibrant finish.
Nutritional Information
One serving of Garlic Butter Pork Chops contains approximately 350 calories, 22 grams of fat, 35 grams of protein, and 1 gram of carbohydrates. This recipe is a great option for a low-carb, high-protein meal that’s sure to satisfy.
Variations and Tips
Flavor Variations
While the classic garlic butter is hard to beat, you can easily customize the flavors of this dish. Try adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the butter. You can also experiment with spices like paprika, cumin, or chili powder for a bit of heat.
Cooking Methods
In addition to pan-searing the pork chops, you can also bake or grill them for a different texture. Bake the pork chops at 400°F (200°C) for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway, until they reach the desired doneness. For grilled Garlic Butter Pork Chops, cook them over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do you make garlic butter for pork chops?
To make garlic butter for pork chops, melt unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. You can also add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor. Once the garlic is golden, remove the skillet from heat and drizzle the garlic butter over the cooked pork chops before serving.
How long should I cook pork chops on each side?
Cooking times for pork chops can vary based on thickness. Generally, for 1-inch thick pork chops, cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side over medium-high heat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
What can I serve with garlic butter pork chops?
Garlic butter pork chops pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, sautéed greens, or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, you might also include rice or pasta tossed in olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
Can I use frozen pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops, but it’s best to thaw them beforehand for even cooking. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Once thawed, you can proceed with the recipe as normal. Cooking from frozen may require additional cooking time.
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Conclusion
Elevate your weeknight dinners with the irresistible flavor of Garlic Butter Pork Chops. This simple recipe transforms basic pork chops into a restaurant-quality meal that the whole family will love. With its quick cooking time and easy-to-find ingredients, you can have this delicious dish on the table in no time. Give it a try and experience the joy of a perfectly cooked pork chop smothered in garlic butter goodness.
Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.
Print
Garlic Butter Pork Chops 4 Servings Ultimate Delicious
- Total Time: 20
- Yield: 4
Description
When it comes to quick and delicious weeknight dinners, it’s hard to beat the simplicity and flavor of Garlic Butter Pork Chops. This recipe elevates a humble pork chop into a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to become a new family favorite. The combination of tender pork, savory garlic butter, and a fresh parsley garnish creates a dish that’s both comforting and restaurant-worthy.
Ingredients
- Pork Chops: Opt for 1-inch thick boneless or bone-in pork chops for the best texture and flavor.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is the base for the garlic butter sauce.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a fragrant, savory punch to the dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Classic seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the pork.
- Olive Oil: A small amount of olive oil is used to sear the pork chops.
- Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley provides a bright, herbal garnish.
Instructions
1. Start by seasoning the pork chops generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This simple step ensures the pork has a flavorful crust and juicy interior when cooked.
2. Heat a skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add a touch of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned pork chops and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until they develop a golden-brown crust. This quick sear locks in the juices and adds depth of flavor.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant and starts to turn golden. The warm, buttery garlic sauce will infuse the pork chops with irresistible flavor.
4. Return the seared pork chops to the skillet and spoon the garlic butter sauce over the top. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Notes
These Garlic Butter Pork Chops pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish. The garlic butter sauce is also delicious when drizzled over rice or pasta. Don’t forget to sprinkle the chops with the fresh chopped parsley for a vibrant finish.
Flavor Variations: While the classic garlic butter is hard to beat, you can easily customize the flavors of this dish. Try adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the butter. You can also experiment with spices like paprika, cumin, or chili powder for a bit of heat.
Cooking Methods: In addition to pan-searing the pork chops, you can also bake or grill them for a different texture. Bake the pork chops at 400°F (200°C) for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway, until they reach the desired doneness. For grilled Garlic Butter Pork Chops, cook them over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 500
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Unsaturated Fat: 0
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0
- Fiber: 35
- Protein: 0
- Cholesterol: 1