DINNER

Amazing Garlic Butter Pork Chops in 30 Minutes

by basmer

25 de October de 2025

Facebook

Jump to Recipe

Garlic butter pork chops have become my absolute go-to for a weeknight meal that feels incredibly special. I still remember the first time I made them; the aroma of sizzling garlic and butter filled my kitchen, promising something delicious. My family was practically at the table before I even finished cooking! This easy garlic butter pork chops recipe delivers unbelievably tender, juicy pork chops bathed in a rich, savory sauce that will have you licking your plate. Ready to create some magic in your own kitchen? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Pork Chops

This recipe is a true winner for so many reasons. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that still feels like a special occasion. Get ready to fall in love:

Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of garlic and butter creates a rich, savory sauce that’s simply irresistible.
Quick to Make: You can have this amazing dinner on the table in under an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Effortlessly Elegant: These easy garlic butter pork chops look and taste gourmet, but require minimal effort.
Perfectly Tender: My method ensures juicy garlic butter pork chops every single time, no dry meat here!
Versatile: Pairs beautifully with almost any side dish, from a crisp salad to roasted vegetables.
Family Favorite: Even picky eaters rave about these delicious chops.
Minimal Cleanup: Mostly cooked in one skillet, so you spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Pork Chops

Here’s what you’ll need to create these incredible garlic butter pork chops. I love having all my ingredients prepped before I start cooking, it makes the process so much smoother!

4 (6-ounce) boneless pork chops – about 1 inch thick, for perfect searing
4 tablespoons garlic butter – use good quality, or make your own with plenty of fresh garlic!
1 teaspoon salt – to enhance all the flavors
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground is best
4 large potatoes – Russets or Yukon Golds work wonderfully for the bake
1 cup shredded cheese – a sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack melts beautifully
1/2 cup milk – whole milk adds richness to the potato bake
1/2 cup sour cream – for that creamy tang
1/4 cup chopped chives – for a pop of fresh flavor and color, a lovely addition to these garlic butter pork chops with herbs

How to Make Garlic Butter Pork Chops

Follow these simple steps to create a truly memorable meal. The combination of perfectly cooked pork chops and a creamy, cheesy potato bake is pure comfort food. These garlic butter pork chops cooking instructions will guide you to deliciousness every time.

Pan-Searing the Pork Chops

Step 1: First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial for getting the potato bake just right while we focus on the chops.
Step 2: While the oven heats, pat your pork chops completely dry with paper towels. This is a secret weapon for achieving a beautiful, golden-brown crust. Season them generously on both sides with salt and black pepper.
Step 3: Now, let’s get that skillet screaming hot over medium-high heat. Add the 4 tablespoons of garlic butter. Let it melt and sizzle; you’ll smell that wonderful garlic aroma instantly!
Step 4: Carefully place the seasoned pork chops into the hot skillet. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Sear for about 5-7 minutes per side. You’re looking for a gorgeous, deep golden-brown crust. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked, juicy garlic butter pork chops.
Step 5: Once seared, remove the pork chops from the skillet and transfer them to a plate. Tent them loosely with foil to let them rest. This resting period is key to keeping them tender and moist.

Preparing the Cheesy Potato Bake

Step 6: While the pork chops are resting, prepare your potato bake. Wash and thinly slice the 4 large potatoes. Aim for consistent thickness so they cook evenly.
Step 7: Layer the sliced potatoes into a baking dish. You can overlap them slightly.
Step 8: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1 cup shredded cheese, 1/2 cup milk, and 1/2 cup sour cream. This creamy mixture is what makes the potato bake so decadent.
Step 9: Pour this glorious cheese mixture evenly over the layered potatoes. Sprinkle the 1/4 cup chopped chives over the top for a burst of freshness.
Step 10: Carefully place the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the top is bubbly and beautifully golden brown. The aroma will be incredible!
Step 11: Once the potato bake is ready, it’s time to serve. Place a rested pork chop alongside a generous portion of the cheesy potato bake. These pan-seared garlic butter pork chops are truly the star of the show!

Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Pork Chops

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that elevate these chops from good to absolutely spectacular. Follow these tips for the most delicious results!

Always pat your pork chops completely dry before seasoning. This is key for a beautiful sear.
Don’t skip the resting period after cooking! It allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender, flavorful bites.
Use fresh garlic whenever possible; it makes a world of difference in the depth of flavor.
Consider adding a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the pan after searing the chops to deglaze and create an even richer sauce.

What’s the secret to perfect juicy garlic butter pork chops?

The absolute secret to perfectly juicy garlic butter pork chops is not overcooking them and letting them rest. Searing them at a medium-high heat for a few minutes per side, then letting them rest under foil for at least 5 minutes, locks in all those delicious juices.

Can I make garlic butter pork chops ahead of time?

Yes, garlic butter pork chops meal prep is totally doable! You can season and even sear the pork chops up to a day in advance, then store them in the fridge. Reheat gently in a skillet with a bit more garlic butter before serving. The potato bake can also be assembled ahead and baked when ready.

How do I avoid common mistakes with garlic butter pork chops?

The most common mistake is overcooking, leading to dry meat. Ensure you use a meat thermometer to hit 145°F (63°C) and then let them rest. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan when searing; cook in batches if needed for that perfect golden crust, making for truly simple garlic butter pork chops.

Best Ways to Serve Garlic Butter Pork Chops

These flavorful garlic butter pork chops are so versatile, they can be the star of any meal! I love pairing them with the cheesy potato bake that’s part of this recipe, but they also shine with other delicious options. Here are a few ideas for fantastic garlic butter pork chops side dishes.

Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts roasted with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper complement the richness of the pork chops beautifully.
Simple Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes or Rice: If you’re not making the potato bake, creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice are perfect for soaking up that incredible garlic butter sauce.

Nutrition Facts for Garlic Butter Pork Chops

This recipe for garlic butter pork chops is a hearty and satisfying meal. One serving, consisting of one pork chop and a quarter of the cheesy potato bake, provides a good balance of nutrients. Remember that these are estimates and can vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes you use.

Calories: 600
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 40g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 800mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Garlic Butter Pork Chops

Properly storing and reheating your delicious garlic butter pork chops ensures they stay flavorful and tender. I always make a little extra just so I can enjoy leftovers the next day!

Cool Completely: Let the pork chops and potato bake cool down to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make food soggy.
Store in Airtight Containers: Place cooled pork chops and potato bake in separate airtight containers. This is essential for maintaining freshness and preventing freezer burn.
Refrigeration: Leftovers will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. This makes them perfect for quick lunches or planned garlic butter pork chops meal prep.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the components separately for up to 3 months. Wrap individual pork chops tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, before placing them in freezer bags. The potato bake can also be frozen in freezer-safe containers.
Reheating: To reheat pork chops, a gentle approach is best. You can warm them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water, or briefly in the microwave. For the potato bake, cover it with foil and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Pork Chops

What are garlic butter pork chops and why are they so popular?

Garlic butter pork chops are simply pork chops cooked with a rich sauce made from butter, garlic, and often herbs. They’re incredibly popular because they offer a fantastic balance of savory, comforting flavors that most people adore. The combination is inherently delicious, and this recipe makes them wonderfully tender and juicy, proving that simple ingredients can create something truly spectacular.

How do I make garlic butter pork chops that are truly juicy?

To ensure your garlic butter pork chops are perfectly juicy, the key is in the cooking method and resting time. Always start by searing the chops over medium-high heat to create a beautiful crust. Then, cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) – don’t overcook! Crucially, let the pork chops rest for at least 5-10 minutes after cooking before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, guaranteeing a moist bite every time.

Can I use different cuts of pork for this recipe?

While this recipe is optimized for boneless pork chops about an inch thick, you can adapt it. Thicker chops will require a longer cooking time, possibly finishing in the oven after an initial sear. Thinner chops cook much faster, so watch them closely to avoid overcooking. Bone-in chops will also work but may take a few minutes longer to cook through. The garlic butter sauce is forgiving and delicious with various cuts!

What are some common garlic butter pork chops side dishes?

The beauty of garlic butter pork chops is their versatility. Beyond the cheesy potato bake in this recipe, they pair wonderfully with many things. I often serve them with simple roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli, a fresh green salad, or even a side of rice or mashed potatoes to soak up that extra garlicky butter sauce. They are perfect for a complete meal.

Variations of Garlic Butter Pork Chops You Can Try

While this recipe is fantastic as is, I love experimenting with different flavor twists and cooking methods. These variations keep things exciting and allow you to tailor the dish to your preferences. Here are a few ideas I’ve tried and loved:

Oven-Baked Garlic Butter Pork Chops: For a hands-off approach, try garlic butter pork chops oven baked. Sear the chops briefly in a skillet, then transfer them to a baking dish with the garlic butter sauce and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through. This method is perfect for when you want to prep and forget.
Garlic Butter Pork Chops with Vegetables: Make it a complete meal in one pan! Add hearty vegetables like broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, or asparagus spears to the skillet during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking the pork chops. They’ll steam and roast in the delicious garlic butter sauce.
Spicy Garlic Butter Pork Chops: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter before searing the chops for a pleasant kick. You can also stir in a spoonful of your favorite hot sauce at the end.
Lemon-Garlic Butter Pork Chops: For a brighter flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pork chops just before serving. A little zest added to the sauce also works wonders!