Ingredients
Scale
Pork Chops
- 4 pork chops, bone-in or boneless, about 1-inch thick
Butter Garlic Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, whole or smashed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to ensure a perfect sear. Generously season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat the Pan: Place a heavy skillet, preferably cast iron, over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Sear the Pork Chops: Carefully place the pork chops in the hot pan without overcrowding. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms. Avoid moving them to develop a perfect crust.
- Add Butter and Garlic: Reduce heat to medium and add butter along with whole or smashed garlic cloves to the pan. Tilt the pan slightly and continuously spoon the melted butter over the pork chops to infuse flavor and keep them moist.
- Finish Cooking and Rest: Continue basting for another 2-3 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Remove the pork chops from the pan and let rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices.
Notes
- Dry pork chops thoroughly before cooking for a better sear and crust.
- Do not overcrowd the pan to prevent steaming; cook in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork.
- Constantly spoon melted butter over pork chops while cooking to keep them juicy and flavorful.
- Allow pork chops to rest after cooking so juices redistribute and the meat stays tender.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan Seared
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pork chop
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
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