Pan Roasted Pork Chops are juicy and full of flavor! Cooking them in a pan gives a lovely brown crust while keeping the inside tender. It’s a tasty dinner option!
These chops are super easy to make, and you won’t need any fancy tools. Just season, sear, and pop them in the oven. You’ll impress your family for sure! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are ideal for moisture and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless pork chops work but can become dry if overcooked. For vegetarian options, consider using portobello mushrooms for a similar texture.
Olive Oil: While I love using olive oil for its taste and health benefits, vegetable oil is a great substitute. It has a high smoke point and won’t interfere with the flavors. If you’re aiming for a buttery flavor, try using ghee.
Butter: Unsalted butter is perfect for controlling the saltiness. If dairy-free, switch to vegan butter or a high-quality olive oil spread. The richness from butter does enhance the dish, so keep that in mind.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings the best flavor here, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Just remember, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder equals about 2-3 cloves of fresh garlic.
Fresh Thyme: If fresh thyme isn’t available, dried thyme can work, but use about 1/3 of the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated. Rosemary is also a fantastic substitute with a powerful aroma!
How Do You Get a Perfect Sear on Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops correctly is key to achieving a flavorful crust. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by letting the pork chops come to room temperature—about 20-30 minutes out of the fridge helps them cook evenly.
- Pat the chops dry with paper towels; moisture can prevent that beautiful crust from forming.
- Heat your skillet until it’s very hot before adding the oil. A drop of water should sizzle immediately!
- Once you place the chops in the pan, don’t move them around. Let them sear for about 3-4 minutes. This undisturbed time allows for the crust to form.
- Flip the chops and add butter, garlic, and herbs to infuse more flavor while basting for another 3-4 minutes.
Remember, patience is your best friend here! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Pan Roasted Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 2 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3-4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 3-4 sprigs fresh thyme (or rosemary if preferred)
Time Estimate:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, making the total time approximately 25 minutes. Allowing the pork chops to rest for 5 minutes after cooking helps keep them juicy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by taking the pork chops out of the refrigerator about 20-30 minutes before you want to cook. This helps them come to room temperature, which is crucial for even cooking. Once they’re out, pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
2. Season the Chops:
Generously season both sides of each pork chop with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This will enhance the flavor while cooking.
3. Heat Up the Pan:
In a cast-iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan, heat over medium-high heat until it’s very hot. Once heated, add the olive oil (or vegetable oil) and let it warm up for a few seconds.
4. Sear the Pork Chops:
Carefully place the pork chops in the hot pan. Don’t move them; let them sear for about 3-4 minutes on one side. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown crust to form.
5. Add Flavor:
Flip the pork chops over and add the unsalted butter, smashed garlic cloves, and fresh thyme to the pan. This will infuse the chops with amazing flavor.
6. Baste the Chops:
Now, tilt the pan slightly, and with a spoon, continuously baste the pork chops with the melted butter and pan juices for another 3-4 minutes. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked chops.
7. Let Them Rest:
Remove the pork chops from the pan and place them on a plate, loosely covered with foil. Let them rest for 5 minutes. This step helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the pork chops hot, garnished with the fresh thyme and roasted garlic you cooked them with. They will be juicy, flavorful, and simply delicious!
Enjoy your fantastic pan roasted pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used, but be cautious as they may cook faster and can dry out more easily. Adjust the cooking time to about 2-3 minutes per side, checking for doneness.
What Should I Do if My Pork Chops Are Overcooked?
If your pork chops are overcooked, they can be dry and tough. To salvage them, try slicing the chops thinly and serving them with a sauce or broth to add moisture back into the meat.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and herbs overnight can enhance their flavor and tenderness. Just pat them dry before searing for the best crust.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet with a little olive oil or in the microwave, ensuring they don’t dry out.
