🥩 Pan-Seared Pork Chops – Juicy and Flavorful
Pan-searing pork chops is a quick way to get a golden, crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Perfect for weeknight dinners!
🧾 Ingredients
- 2–4 pork chops (1–1.5 inches thick, bone-in or boneless)
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt & pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tsp paprika or smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Prep the pork chops
- Pat dry with paper towels
- Rub with salt, pepper, and any optional spices
2. Heat the pan
- Use a heavy skillet (cast iron is ideal)
- Heat oil over medium-high heat until shimmering
3. Sear the chops
- Add pork chops to the pan
- Sear 3–5 min per side until golden brown
- Optional: add butter and herbs, spoon over chops for extra flavor
4. Check doneness
- Internal temperature: 63°C (145°F) for juicy, slightly pink center
- Rest 3–5 min before serving
🔥 Tips
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed
- Let meat rest after cooking to keep juices inside
- Use thicker chops for a juicier result
🍽️ Serve With
- Mashed or roasted potatoes
- Sautéed green beans or broccoli
- Apple sauce or pan sauce made from drippings
If you want, I can give you a creamy pan-seared pork chops recipe with mushroom sauce or a quick honey-garlic glaze version 🍯🍄
