Garlic Pork Chops

Imagine crafting a dish that combines the rich, savory essence of bone-in pork chops with the boldness of garlic and aromatic herbs.

By marinating the chops in a precise blend of olive oil, minced garlic, and fresh thyme, you’re ensuring flavor penetration that transforms the meat into a tender masterpiece.

As the sizzle fills the kitchen, you’re only steps away from perfecting a culinary delight.

But what’s the secret to achieving that impeccable finish?

Kitchen Tools Required

• 1 skillet
• 1 meat thermometer
• 1 spatula
• 1 small bowl

Ingredients

• 4 pieces pork chops, bone-in
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Cook & Prep Time

To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking Garlic Pork Chops, you can follow this timeline, including prep time, cook time, resting time, and some additional time for reading and understanding the recipe:

1. Reading and Understanding the Recipe (5 minutes):
   • Begin by reading through the entire recipe to familiarize yourself with the steps and ingredients.
2. Preparation (10 minutes):
   • 0:00 – 2:00 minutes: Gather all the ingredients and equipment.
   • 2:00 – 5:00 minutes: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels.
   • 5:00 – 8:00 minutes: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, salt, black pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
   • 8:00 – 10:00 minutes: Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops.
3. Cooking (15 minutes):
   • 10:00 – 11:00 minutes: Preheat the skillet over medium-high heat and add butter.
   • 11:00 – 18:00 minutes: Place the pork chops in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on the first side.
   • 18:00 – 25:00 minutes: Flip the pork chops and cook for another 5-7 minutes on the second side, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
4. Resting (5 minutes):
   • 25:00 – 30:00 minutes: Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest.
5. Final Touch (1 minute):
   • 30:00 – 31:00 minutes: Drizzle lemon juice over the pork chops before serving.

Recipe Instructions

Pat pork chops dry with paper towels.

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, salt, black pepper, thyme, and rosemary.

Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops.

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add butter.

Once the butter is melted, place the pork chops in the skillet.

Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes.

Drizzle lemon juice over the pork chops before serving.

Serving Tips

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the savory flavors of the garlic pork chops perfectly.
• Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed broccoli or green beans adds vitality and a vibrant touch to the meal.
• Rice Pilaf: The aromatic flavors of rice pilaf enhance the garlic and herb profile of the pork chops.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a rejuvenating contrast to the rich, garlicky pork chops.
• Crusty Bread: A slice of warm crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover juices on the plate.

Storage

Store leftover garlic pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months, ensuring they’re well-wrapped.

Freezing

To freeze garlic pork chops, allow them to cool completely.

Then wrap each chop individually in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

Store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months.

Reheating

To reheat garlic pork chops, use an oven set at 300°F.

Cover them with foil to retain moisture.

Heat until warmed through.

Avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Pork Chops is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cook time of 15 minutes, you can have a flavorful meal ready in no time.

This American cuisine recipe serves four and requires minimal equipment, making it a convenient choice for a quick dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Substitute Bone-In Pork Chops With Boneless Ones?

You can substitute boneless pork chops for bone-in ones. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as boneless cooks faster. Make certain an internal temperature of 145°F. Boneless may lack the depth of flavor, so consider enhancing seasoning.

What Side Dishes Pair Well With Garlic Pork Chops?

You should consider pairing them with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted asparagus. They complement the rich flavors beautifully. A fresh arugula salad with a light vinaigrette adds a revitalizing contrast, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Is There a Vegetarian Alternative to This Recipe?

You can substitute the pork chops with thick-cut cauliflower steaks. Season them with the same spices and olive oil, then sear in a hot skillet for 5 minutes per side. Finish with lemon juice for brightness.

How Can I Enhance the Garlic Flavor More?

Increase garlic flavor by doubling minced garlic and adding roasted garlic cloves. Infuse 2 tablespoons of olive oil with crushed garlic over low heat. Baste meat with this oil while cooking, ensuring a rich, aromatic finish.

Are There Any Wine Pairings Recommended With This Dish?

For a sophisticated pairing, serve a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay. These wines enhance the dish’s flavors without overpowering them. Their acidity complements the richness, creating a balanced and delicious dining experience. Enjoy!

Garlic Pork Chops

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Resting Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Equipment

• 1 Skillet
• 1 Meat thermometer
• 1 Spatula
• 1 Small bowl

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 4 pieces pork chops bone-in
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

 

• Pat pork chops dry with paper towels.
• In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, salt, black pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
• Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops.
• Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add butter.
• Once the butter is melted, place the pork chops in the skillet.
• Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
• Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes.
• Drizzle lemon juice over the pork chops before serving.

Notes

Ensure the skillet is preheated before adding the pork chops; this helps to sear the meat and lock in the juices. Using a meat thermometer is crucial to avoid overcooking; pork is best when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Letting the pork chops rest ensures that the juices redistribute, making the meat more tender and flavorful.

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Cynthia Weatherford

Cynthia Weatherford is a seasoned chef and culinary enthusiast who serves as the Recipe creator of Somonday. With decades of experience in the kitchen and a passion for exploring diverse cuisines, Cynthia brings a blend of creativity and technique to every dish. Known for transforming simple ingredients into show-stopping meals, Cynthia believes that cooking is an art form anyone can master. Dedicated to inspiring home cooks, Cynthia shares approachable recipes, pro tips, and culinary wisdom to make every meal memorable.