Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops: Juicy, Golden, and Packed with Flavor

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If you’re searching for a dinner recipe that feels restaurant-worthy but comes together in under 30 minutes, Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops are exactly what you need. This timeless stovetop recipe delivers perfectly seared pork chops with a golden crust, tender interior, and a rich garlic butter sauce that coats every bite.

Pan-searing is one of the best ways to cook pork chops because it locks in moisture while creating deep flavor through caramelization. When combined with butter, garlic, and fresh herbs, the result is a dish that’s simple yet luxurious—perfect for weeknights, date nights, or whenever you want a satisfying homemade meal without the fuss.

Unlike baked pork chops that can sometimes turn dry, pan-seared pork chops allow you to control the heat and texture every step of the way. With just a few techniques, you’ll have juicy, flavorful chops every single time.

Why You’ll Love These Garlic Butter Pork Chops

This recipe earns a permanent place in your dinner rotation for good reason:

  • Ready in under 30 minutes
  • One skillet, minimal cleanup
  • Rich garlic butter flavor
  • Perfectly juicy pork chops
  • Simple pantry ingredients

It’s proof that you don’t need complicated steps or fancy ingredients to make an impressive meal.

Choosing the Best Pork Chops

For pan-searing, thickness matters. Look for pork chops that are at least 1 inch thick. Thin pork chops cook too quickly and tend to dry out before a good crust forms.

Bone-in pork chops are ideal because the bone helps retain moisture and adds flavor. Boneless pork chops also work, but require careful timing.

Good options include:

  • Rib chops
  • Center-cut chops
  • Loin chops

Avoid chops labeled “thin-cut” for this recipe.

The Secret to Perfect Pan-Seared Pork Chops

The magic comes down to three things:

  1. High heat at the start for a deep golden crust
  2. Butter added at the end so it doesn’t burn
  3. Resting the meat so juices redistribute

Garlic is added after searing to prevent bitterness, while fresh herbs infuse the butter with aroma and depth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • Thick-cut pork chops
  • Olive oil
  • Unsalted butter
  • Garlic cloves
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Paprika

Each ingredient plays a role, creating layers of flavor without overpowering the pork.

Instructions

  1. Bring pork chops to room temperature
    Remove pork chops from the refrigerator 20 minutes before cooking.
  2. Season generously
    Pat pork chops dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  3. Heat the skillet
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  4. Sear pork chops
    Add pork chops and sear 3–4 minutes per side until deeply golden.
  5. Lower heat and add butter
    Reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter, garlic, and herbs to the skillet.
  6. Baste
    Spoon melted garlic butter over the pork chops continuously for 2–3 minutes.
  7. Check doneness
    Pork is done at 145°F (63°C).
  8. Rest and serve
    Transfer pork chops to a plate and rest 5 minutes before serving.

Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops

Juicy thick-cut pork chops pan-seared until golden and basted with rich garlic butter and fresh herbs.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 chops
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 390

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pork chops 1-inch thick, bone-in preferred
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic smashed
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp paprika
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Tongs
  • Spoon
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Bring pork chops to room temperature and pat dry.
  2. Season pork chops with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Sear pork chops 3–4 minutes per side until golden.
  5. Lower heat and add butter, garlic, and herbs.
  6. Baste pork chops with garlic butter for 2–3 minutes.
  7. Remove pork chops and rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use a thermometer and remove pork at 145°F for juicy results.

Tips for Juicy Pork Chops Every Time

  • Dry the pork thoroughly before seasoning
  • Don’t move the chops while searing
  • Use a thermometer for perfect doneness
  • Let them rest before slicing

These small steps make a huge difference in texture and flavor.

Easy Variations

  • Creamy Garlic Pork Chops: Add a splash of cream to the pan sauce
  • Lemon Garlic Pork Chops: Finish with fresh lemon juice
  • Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or cayenne
  • Herb Butter Upgrade: Mix butter with parsley and chives

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Pork Chops

These pork chops pair beautifully with:

  • Mashed potatoes
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Steamed green beans
  • Rice or risotto
  • Simple side salad

The garlic butter sauce ties everything together.

Storage & Reheating

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
  • Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat
  • Add a splash of broth or butter to refresh the sauce

Why This Recipe Works

Pan-searing delivers flavor through caramelization, while butter and garlic add richness without heaviness. The result is a balanced, satisfying dish that feels indulgent but approachable.

Once you master this technique, you’ll never fear dry pork chops again.

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