Garlic Butter Baked Pork Chops

Garlic Butter Baked Pork Chops are a simple yet flavorful dish that combines tender pork chops with a rich garlic butter sauce. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, providing a delightful combination of savory flavors that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 2 medium-sized pork chops (heritage breed)
• 2 tbsp grass-fed butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 sprigs of thyme
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 380°F (193°C).
2. Season Pork Chops: Sprinkle the pork chops generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Prepare Garlic Butter: Melt the butter in a microwave or on the stove. Stir in the minced garlic and thyme, then set aside.
4. Sear the Pork Chops: Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the pork chops and sear for about 4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
5. Bake: Pour the garlic butter mixture over the pork chops. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145-150°F (63-66°C).
6. Serve: Remove the pan from the oven and spoon the remaining garlic butter sauce over the pork chops. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 2

Variations

• Herb Infusion: Substitute thyme with rosemary or parsley for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy twist.
• Vegetable Side: Serve the pork chops with roasted vegetables or a side salad for a complete meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in pork chops?
   Yes, bone-in pork chops will work; just adjust cooking time as needed.
2. What if I don’t have thyme?
   You can use dried thyme or other herbs like oregano or basil.
3. Is it necessary to sear the pork chops?
   Searing adds flavor and a nice crust, but you can skip it if you’re short on time.
4. Can I use a different type of butter?
   Yes, any butter will work, but grass-fed butter offers a richer flavor.
5. What’s the best way to check doneness?
   Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Can I marinate the pork chops?
   Yes, marinating for a few hours can enhance the flavor.
7. How do I know when to take them out of the oven?
   Check the internal temperature; it should be 145°F (63°C) when done.
8. Can I cook this dish on the stovetop only?
   Yes, you can cook them entirely on the stovetop, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
9. What side dishes pair well with this?
   Mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad are great choices.
10. Can I make this recipe for more servings?
    Yes, just multiply the ingredients as needed, ensuring your skillet can accommodate all the chops.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Baked Pork Chops are a deliciously easy dish that delivers on flavor and satisfaction. With the perfect blend of garlic, herbs, and rich butter, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy your succulent pork chops with your choice of sides for a hearty and delightful meal!

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