These pan roasted pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! They’re cooked to perfection with a nice sear on the outside and tenderness inside.
Cooking them is easy—just season, sear, and finish in the oven! I love serving them with mashed potatoes. It’s a cozy meal that feels special! 🥔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are ideal for this recipe as they stay juicy during cooking. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops work too, but reduce cooking time to avoid drying out.
Olive Oil: It’s great for searing, but you can substitute with vegetable or canola oil if that’s what you have. Just ensure it’s a high smoke point oil for best results.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds wonderful flavor. If fresh is not available, garlic powder can work, but use less—about 1/4 teaspoon. You won’t get the same depth, but it’s a quick fix!
Herbs: Fresh thyme is my favorite for this dish. If you don’t have it, feel free to use rosemary or even dried herbs. Just remember, dried herbs are more potent, so use a little less.
Butter: Unsalted butter is used for better control of saltiness. You can replace it with ghee or olive oil for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Get a Perfect Sear on My Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops is key to a delicious crust. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with dry pork chops. Pat them with paper towels to remove moisture. This helps achieve that nice golden color.
- Use a hot skillet. Heat the olive oil just until shimmering before adding the pork chops.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Sear in batches if cooking multiple chops to ensure good contact with the pan.
- Let them sit! Once in the skillet, don’t move them around. Let them sear for 3-4 minutes until browned before flipping.
This method guarantees you a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender!
Pan Roasted Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3-4 garlic cloves (smashed)
- 3-4 sprigs fresh thyme (or rosemary)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, plus an additional 5 minutes for resting. In total, you can have delicious pan roasted pork chops ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to roast the pork chops perfectly.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Use paper towels to pat the pork chops dry. This helps create a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper for great flavor!
3. Sear the Chops:
In an oven-safe skillet, like cast iron, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Place the pork chops in the skillet without moving them. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes until they form a deep golden crust.
4. Add Flavors:
Carefully flip the pork chops over. Now, add the smashed garlic cloves and fresh thyme sprigs around the chops in the pan. This will give your dish a beautiful aroma and flavor.
5. Baste with Butter:
Drop the butter into the skillet and let it melt. Use a spoon to baste the melted butter over the pork chops, adding richness and more flavor.
6. Roast in the Oven:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Roast the pork chops for about 6-8 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for perfect juiciness.
7. Rest and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the oven. Tent the pork chops loosely with foil and let them rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making them even more tender.
8. Plate and Enjoy:
Serve the pork chops with the pan juices, garlic, and thyme on top for extra flavor. Enjoy your juicy, flavorful pan roasted pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind that they’ll cook faster, so reduce the oven roasting time to about 4-6 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or even melted coconut oil. Just make sure to choose a neutral oil for the best flavor.
How Do I Know When the Pork Chops Are Done?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures they’re juicy and safe to eat!
What Should I Serve with Pork Chops?
Pork chops pair wonderfully with side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with a simple apple sauce or a fruit chutney for a delightful contrast!