Easy Rosemary Garlic Butter Pork Chops

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Pinterest
• X

There’s something magical about the aroma of fresh rosemary and garlic sizzling in butter that transforms an ordinary weeknight dinner into a restaurant-worthy experience. These Rosemary Garlic Butter Pork Chops have become my go-to solution for those evenings when I crave something impressive but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

The combination of aromatic herbs, savory garlic, and rich butter creates a flavor profile that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of pork. The best part? These delicious Rosemary Garlic Butter Pork Chops come together in just 30 minutes, making them ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner gatherings when you want to impress without the stress.

Ingredients List

For these mouthwatering Rosemary Garlic Butter Pork Chops, you’ll need:

• 4 bone-in pork chops (1-inch thick, about 8 oz each)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
• 3 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added color and flavor)
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges for serving

Substitution Options:

• No fresh rosemary? Use 1 tablespoon dried rosemary instead, but add it earlier in the cooking process to release its flavors.
• Garlic cloves can be replaced with 1 teaspoon garlic powder in a pinch.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil or clarified butter (ghee).
• Boneless pork chops work too, but reduce cooking time by 2-3 minutes per side.

Timing

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

This recipe takes 40% less time than traditional pork chop recipes that require marinating or slow cooking, making it perfect for weeknight meals when time is precious but you don’t want to compromise on flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

Remove your pork chops from the refrigerator 15-20 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature. This ensures even cooking and juicier results. Pat them completely dry with paper towels – this is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown sear that locks in juices and flavor.

Step 2: Season the Meat

Mix the salt, pepper, and paprika (if using) in a small bowl. Season both sides of each pork chop generously with this mixture, pressing the seasonings into the meat with your fingers. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – proper seasoning is what elevates home cooking to restaurant quality!

Step 3: Heat the Pan

Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to get hot but not smoking. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers slightly – too hot and your garlic will burn, not hot enough and you won’t get that perfect sear.

Step 4: Sear the Pork Chops

Place the seasoned pork chops in the hot pan, being careful not to overcrowd (cook in batches if necessary). Sear for 4-5 minutes on the first side without moving them – patience is key for developing that golden crust! Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the second side, or until an instant-read thermometer registers 135°F for medium doneness.

Step 5: Make the Rosemary Garlic Butter

Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the butter to the pan and allow it to melt. Once melted, add the minced garlic and chopped rosemary. Swirl the pan gently to combine the ingredients as the butter begins to foam slightly and the aromatics release their fragrance – this should take about 1 minute.

Step 6: Baste and Finish

Using a spoon, continuously baste the pork chops with the rosemary garlic butter for 1-2 minutes. Tilt the pan slightly toward you to pool the butter, making it easier to scoop and drizzle over the meat. This technique, called arroser in French cooking, infuses the pork with incredible flavor while keeping it moist.

Step 7: Rest the Meat

Transfer the pork chops to a cutting board or plate and pour any remaining pan sauce over them. Tent loosely with foil and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is succulent and flavorful.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Rosemary Garlic Butter Pork Chops contains:

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 35g
• Total Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugars: 0g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Potassium: 570mg
• Iron: 10% DV
• Vitamin B12: 25% DV

These values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Healthier Alternatives for Rosemary Garlic Butter Pork Chops

Love this recipe, but looking for a lighter version? Try these healthier modifications:

• Use boneless pork loin chops instead of bone-in for less fat content while maintaining tenderness.
• Replace half or all of the butter with olive oil or avocado oil to reduce saturated fat.
• For a lower-sodium version, use a salt-free herb blend and reduce added salt by half.
• Add additional herbs like thyme or sage to boost flavor without adding calories.
• Include lemon zest in your seasoning mix for brightness that reduces the need for salt.
• For a complete low-carb meal, serve with roasted cauliflower instead of traditional starchy sides.

Serving Suggestions

Transform your Rosemary Garlic Butter Pork Chops into a complete meal with these complementary side dishes:

• Creamy garlic mashed potatoes to soak up that delicious butter sauce
• Roasted root vegetables with a touch of balsamic glaze
• Fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for a peppery contrast
• Steamed green beans tossed with slivered almonds
• Crusty artisan bread to mop up every last drop of the rosemary garlic butter
• Wild rice pilaf with dried cranberries for a nutty, sweet balance

For an elegant presentation, place the pork chop on a warmed plate, drizzle with pan sauce, and garnish with an additional sprig of fresh rosemary and a lemon wedge on the side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced home cooks can fall prey to these common pitfalls when preparing pork chops:

1. Overcooking the meat: According to USDA guidelines, pork is safe to eat at 145°F internal temperature. Cooking beyond this point leads to dry, tough results. Invest in a good meat thermometer for perfectly cooked pork every time.
2. Not allowing enough searing time: Patience is crucial! Moving the chops too soon prevents proper browning and flavor development. Wait until they release naturally from the pan.
3. Skipping the resting period: Cutting into pork chops immediately after cooking causes all those flavorful juices to spill out, resulting in drier meat.
4. Using cold pork chops straight from the refrigerator: This leads to uneven cooking with overdone exteriors and underdone centers.
5. Overcrowding the pan: This creates steam instead of sear, preventing proper browning and flavor development.

Storing Tips for Rosemary Garlic Butter Pork Chops

Make the most of your Rosemary Garlic Butter Pork Chops with these storage recommendations:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors actually intensify overnight, making day-two pork chops equally delicious!
• Freezing: While possible, freezing cooked pork chops may affect their texture. If freezing, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and store in freezer bags for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat with a tablespoon of water to create steam, preserving moisture. Alternatively, reheat in a 300°F oven in a covered dish until just warmed through.
• Prep-ahead option: Mix your dry seasonings and chop herbs up to 2 days in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.

Craving more? Check out these delicious ideas:

• Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
• Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs

Conclusion

These Easy Rosemary Garlic Butter Pork Chops bring restaurant-quality flavor to your table in just 30 minutes. The aromatic combination of rosemary and garlic infused in rich butter creates a dish that’s both impressively flavorful and remarkably simple. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, these juicy pork chops are guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Have you tried this recipe? We’d love to hear your feedback in the comment section below! Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more quick and delicious recipes delivered straight to your inbox.

FAQs Rosemary Garlic Butter Pork Chops

Is rosemary a good seasoning for pork?

Yes, rosemary is an excellent seasoning for pork. The herb’s piney, woody flavor profile complements pork’s natural sweetness. Rosemary contains aromatic oils that penetrate the meat during cooking, enhancing its flavor. The robust nature of rosemary stands up well to pork’s hearty texture, whether you’re cooking chops, tenderloin, or roasts.

What makes pork chops tender?

Several factors contribute to tender pork chops:

• Proper cooking temperature (145°F internal temperature with 3-5 minute rest)
• Not overcooking (which dries out the meat)
• Brining or marinating before cooking
• Choosing cuts with some fat marbling
• Allowing meat to rest after cooking to redistribute juices
• Using the reverse sear method (low temperature cooking followed by a quick high-heat finish)
• Selecting thicker cuts (at least 1-inch thick) which are less prone to overcooking

How do you cook pork steaks in butter?

To cook pork steaks in butter:

1. Season pork steaks with salt and pepper
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat
3. Add 2-3 tablespoons of butter to the pan
4. Once butter is melted and bubbling, add the pork steaks
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side for 1/2-inch thick steaks (adjust time for thickness)
6. Baste the steaks with the butter during cooking
7. Cook until internal temperature reaches 145°F
8. Remove from heat and rest for 3-5 minutes before serving

What is the best cooking method for pork chops?

The best cooking method for pork chops depends on the cut, but pan-searing followed by finishing in the oven (for thicker cuts) generally produces excellent results:

1. Pan-searing creates a flavorful crust while sealing in juices
2. For thin chops (under 1-inch): Quick pan-fry over medium-high heat
3. For thick chops (over 1-inch): Sear on stovetop then finish in 375°F oven
4. Sous vide followed by a quick sear offers exceptional tenderness with precise doneness
5. Grilling works well for marinated chops, adding smoky flavor
6. Regardless of method, using a meat thermometer to reach 145°F internal temperature is crucial to prevent overcooking