These pan-seared pork chops are juicy, tender, and super easy to make! With a nice golden crust on the outside, they pack a lot of flavor in every bite.
Honestly, I love how quick they cook in just a few minutes. Serve them with some veggies or mashed potatoes, and you’ve got a delicious meal that feels fancy! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for this recipe as they tend to be juicier. If you prefer, you can use boneless chops; just watch the cooking time as they’ll cook quicker.
Salt & Pepper: Seasoning is key! If you’re watching your sodium, try using a salt substitute or herb blend for flavor without the salt. Freshly ground pepper gives a nice bite, but pre-ground works too!
Oil: Olive oil is my go-to for its health benefits and flavor, but vegetable oil or canola oil works just fine. If you like a little extra flavor, use a flavored oil, like avocado oil.
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control salt levels better. You can also use ghee or dairy-free butter for a lactose-free option.
Herbs: Fresh thyme adds a lovely aroma; however, rosemary or even dried herbs can substitute. Use what you have on hand!
How Do I Achieve a Perfect Crust?
Getting that beautiful sear on pork chops can be a game changer! Here are the steps to follow for a perfect crust:
- Start by ensuring your skillet is hot enough before adding the oil. A hot pan helps create the sear.
- Dry the chops with paper towels – moisture hinders browning.
- Don’t crowd the pan. If your skillet is too full, you’ll steam instead of sear.
- Let them sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes on one side. Flip only when a nice crust forms!
- Basting with butter and herbs adds flavor and keeps them juicy. Tilt the pan slightly to scoop and drizzle the buttery goodness over the chops.
Follow these tips, and you’ll be enjoying wonderfully seared pork chops that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside!
Pan-Seared Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3-4 sprigs fresh thyme (or rosemary, optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
- Flaky sea salt, for finishing (optional)
- Fresh chopped parsley or thyme, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need about 25 minutes from start to finish, plus a 5-minute resting time. Perfect for a quick and delightful dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
First, pat the pork chops dry using paper towels. This is important because it helps create a delicious, crispy crust when you sear them. Don’t skip this step!
2. Season Generously:
Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides of the pork chops. Don’t be shy with the seasoning—it brings out all the natural flavors of the meat!
3. Heat the Skillet:
Grab a large cast-iron or heavy-bottomed skillet and set it over medium-high heat. Pour in the olive oil and let it heat until it’s shimmering but not smoking. You want it hot enough to get that nice sear.
4. Sear the Pork Chops:
Carefully place the pork chops in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes. This helps develop a beautiful golden crust on one side.
5. Flip and Add Flavor:
Now it’s time to flip the pork chops! After they’re golden brown, turn them over. Add the butter, thyme sprigs, and smashed garlic to the pan. The butter will melt and mix with the herbs, creating a lovely aroma!
6. Baste for Juiciness:
To keep the chops juicy and flavorful, tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the pork chops with the melted butter and herbs. Let them cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and place them on a plate. Tent them loosely with foil and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute!
8. Add Finishing Touches:
If desired, sprinkle a little flaky sea salt on top for a burst of flavor. You can also garnish with fresh chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of color.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your beautifully cooked pork chops warm with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes, sautéed greens, or a crisp salad. Enjoy your meal!
These pan-seared pork chops are sure to be a hit at the dinner table—enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless pork chops! Just remember that they will cook faster, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for the best results.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftover pork chops, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to preserve their juiciness.
What Can I Use Instead of Fresh Herbs?
No fresh herbs? No problem! You can use dried herbs instead; just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about a third of the amount you would use for fresh herbs. For example, use about 1-2 teaspoons of dried thyme or rosemary.
Can I Marinade the Pork Chops?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops can enhance their flavor even more. A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and some lemon juice or vinegar for 30 minutes to a few hours can make a delicious difference!
