Here’s a flavorful recipe for Herb-Crusted Pork Chops with Garlic Butter Sauce—a perfect combination of savory, juicy pork chops with a fragrant herb crust, complemented by a rich and aromatic garlic butter sauce!
Herb-Crusted Pork Chops with Garlic Butter Sauce
Ingredients:
For the Herb-Crusted Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Herb Crust:
- In a small bowl, combine the rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the pork chops with olive oil, then coat both sides of each chop with the herb mixture. Press the herbs into the meat to ensure they stick. Let the pork chops rest at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook the Pork Chops:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of olive oil to the pan and allow it to get hot.
- Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and is golden brown on the outside.
- Once cooked, transfer the pork chops to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon (this adds flavor to the sauce).
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not burnt.
- Stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice (if using). Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve:
- Drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the herb-crusted pork chops and serve immediately.
- Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired, and serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Tips:
- For Extra Juiciness: Consider brining the pork chops for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure they remain juicy.
- Cook to the Right Temp: Make sure to cook pork chops to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for optimal flavor and safety. Let them rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Customize the Herb Blend: Feel free to use other herbs like sage, oregano, or basil depending on your preferences.
These Herb-Crusted Pork Chops with Garlic Butter Sauce are rich in flavor, perfectly seasoned, and elevated by the delicious garlic butter sauce. It’s a simple yet impressive dish for any occasion! Enjoy!
