Pan Roasted Pork Chops are juicy and flavorful, making them a perfect dinner option. A quick sear gives them a beautiful golden crust, while the inside stays tender.
Cooking these is a breeze! I love serving them with some veggies on the side for a colorful plate. Trust me, everyone will be coming back for seconds! 🥦🍴
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are ideal for moisture and flavor. If you can’t find them, boneless cuts work too, but keep an eye on cooking time as they may cook faster.
Fresh Herbs: Thyme and sage are classic choices for this dish, adding wonderful aroma. Don’t worry if you don’t have them; you can use dried herbs (1/3 the amount) or even Italian seasoning for a different twist.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you full control over the saltiness. If you prefer a dairy-free option, go for vegetable oil or coconut oil instead. They can withstand high heat well.
Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances flavor, but if you’re out, garlic powder can substitute. Use about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove.
How Do I Get the Perfect Sear on My Pork Chops?
Getting a great sear starts with your skillet and heating just right. Preheat it well so the pork chops sizzle when they hit the pan. Here’s how:
- Use medium-high heat and let the skillet heat for a few minutes.
- Make sure your pork chops are patted dry; moisture can prevent a good sear.
- Lay the chops in without overcrowding; this helps them brown effectively.
- Leave them alone for about 3-4 minutes; don’t move them around! This allows a nice crust to form.
Resting is just as important. It lets the juices redistribute, keeping your chops tender and juicy after cooking!
Pan Roasted Pork Chops Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 bone-in pork chops, about 1 to 1½ inches thick
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2-3 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2-3 fresh thyme sprigs
- 2-3 fresh sage leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook. Including time for the pork chops to rest, you’re looking at about 30-35 minutes total. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Pork Chops:
Start by taking your pork chops out of the refrigerator. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to come to room temperature. This helps them cook evenly. Use paper towels to pat them dry; moisture can prevent a good sear!
2. Season the Chops:
Generously sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides of the pork chops. Seasoning is key to enhancing the flavor
3. Preheat the Oven:
While the chops are resting, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is essential for finishing the cooking process after searing.
4. Sear the Chops:
Heat a heavy oven-safe skillet (like cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and wait until it shimmers. Carefully lay the pork chops in the hot skillet without crowding them. Let them sear for about 3-4 minutes. This creates that beautiful brown crust!
5. Add Flavor:
Flip the pork chops over and add the butter, smashed garlic cloves, thyme, and sage to the pan. Spoon the melted butter and herbs over the chops for about 1-2 minutes to infuse those wonderful flavors.
6. Roast in the Oven:
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the pork chops for about 5-8 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check; you’re looking for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Rest and Serve:
Once they’re done, carefully take the skillet out of the oven. Place the pork chops onto a plate and cover them loosely with foil. Let them rest for about 5 minutes. This step is important as it allows the juices to redistribute within the meat.
8. Final Touches:
Serve your beautiful pork chops garnished with the garlic and herbs from the pan. Don’t forget to drizzle any delicious pan juices over the top!
Enjoy your perfectly seared, juicy, and flavorful pan roasted pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just be mindful that they may cook faster than bone-in chops, so start checking for doneness a couple of minutes earlier.
What Should I Do if My Pork Chops Don’t Have a Good Sear?
If your pork chops aren’t searing properly, make sure your pan is hot enough before adding the meat. Also, ensure they are patted dry and avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the temperature and prevent a good crust from forming.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
While it’s best to enjoy them fresh, you can marinate the pork chops in your seasonings and herbs a few hours ahead or even overnight for extra flavor. Just cook them on the day you plan to serve them!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist.