Ingredients
Scale
- 4 pork chops 1½ inches thick, bone-in preferred
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar optional, for subtle caramelization
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4-6 cloves fresh garlic, smashed
- 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme, optional but highly recommended
Instructions
- Pat the pork chops completely dry with paper towels and season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and brown sugar if using. Let sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil, allowing it to become hot and shimmering.
- Place the pork chops in the skillet without moving them. Cook for 3–5 minutes until a deep golden crust forms.
- Flip the pork chops, reduce heat to medium, and add butter, smashed garlic, and thyme to the pan.
- Baste the pork chops with melted butter by tilting the pan and spooning the butter over them. Cook for another 3–6 minutes, checking for doneness.
- Remove the pork chops when the internal temperature reaches 140–145°F and let them rise in temperature while resting.
- Transfer to a plate and rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
For best results, ensure the pork chops are at room temperature before cooking.
Using bone-in chops enhances flavor and moisture.
Resting is crucial to keeping the pork juicy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pork chop
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Nutritional information is an estimate. The nutritional values for your final dish may vary based on measuring differences and products used.