Garlic Butter Pork Chops With Potatoes
Highlighted under: Homestyle Happiness
I love making Garlic Butter Pork Chops with Potatoes because it's a real comfort dish that brings together juicy pork and flavorful spuds in one easy meal. Whenever I prepare this recipe, the rich aroma fills my kitchen, drawing everyone in. The combination of garlic and butter enhances the meat, making each bite irresistible. Plus, the potatoes soak up all that delicious flavor, creating a hearty side that never disappoints. Trust me, this meal will quickly become a family favorite!
When I first tried making Garlic Butter Pork Chops with Potatoes, I was amazed by the simplicity and the depth of flavor that emerged from the garlic and butter combination. Cooking the chops in the same pan as the potatoes not only saves time but allows the potatoes to absorb all the delicious juices. I remember using fresh herbs from my garden, which elevated the dish even further.
One key tip I discovered is to let the pork chops rest after cooking; this helps them stay juicy and tender. Just a few minutes of patience can turn a decent meal into something truly special. Trust me, once you try this, it will become a regular on your dinner table!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Juicy pork chops infused with garlic and butter flavors.
- Perfectly roasted potatoes that soak up all the goodness.
- A comforting, hearty meal that's easy to prepare.
The Perfect Pairing of Garlic and Pork
Garlic plays a crucial role in elevating the flavor of the pork chops. When sautéed in butter, it releases aromatic compounds that infuse the meat with a savory essence. Searing the pork chops first creates a beautiful crust, sealing in juices and flavor. I recommend using fresh garlic for the best results; pre-minced garlic doesn't deliver the same punch and can affect the sautéing process.
Fatty cuts of pork, like the thick-cut chops used here, benefit immensely from the richness of butter. This not only adds moisture but also gives a luxurious mouthfeel. Make sure your butter is unsalted, as it allows you to control the seasoning effectively. If you’re looking for a twist, you could substitute the butter with ghee for a nutty flavor and higher smoke point.
Mastering the Potato Roast
The key to perfectly roasted potatoes is starting them in the skillet. By briefly cooking them on the stove, you get a head start on that desirable golden-brown exterior. Aim for a medium heat to achieve this; if the heat is too high, the outsides may brown too quickly while the insides remain undercooked. Look for a soft interior and a crispy surface as indicators of doneness.
For a variety in flavor, feel free to swap out the potatoes. Sweet potatoes, for example, add a natural sweetness that complements the savory elements of the dish. Just remember to adjust their cooking time slightly, as they may need an extra 5-10 minutes in the oven.
Ingredients
For the Pork Chops and Potatoes
- 4 thick-cut pork chops
- 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Additional Notes:
You may replace rosemary with thyme for a different flavor profile.
Instructions
Prep the Ingredients
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cook the Potatoes
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the potato wedges and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
Sear the Pork Chops
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Place the pork chops in the skillet and sear for about 5 minutes on each side until browned.
Combine and Roast
Return the potatoes to the skillet, add the remaining butter, and sprinkle the rosemary on top. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for another 15 minutes until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Serve
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes. Serve hot with the roasted potatoes, drizzled with any pan juices.
Enjoy Your Meal!
Pro Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the pork chops in garlic and herbs for a few hours before cooking. This recipe can also be adapted for a grill during the warmer months.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This Garlic Butter Pork Chops with Potatoes dish is ideal for meal prep. You can season the pork chops a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the taste. However, I recommend cooking the potatoes fresh on the day you plan to serve for the best texture.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid to prevent drying out. Adding a splash of broth or water can help revive the juiciness of the pork.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate this meal, consider serving it with a light side salad. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pork and potatoes. I also like adding a touch of lemon to cut through the buttery flavor and provide a refreshing contrast.
For a touch of brightness, sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives over the finished dish before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a fresh herbaceous note that complements the garlic beautifully.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, boneless pork chops work well too, but be cautious of the cooking time as they might cook faster.
→ What if I don't have fresh herbs?
Dried herbs can be used, but remember to reduce the amount since they are more concentrated in flavor.
→ Can I prepare the potatoes in advance?
Yes, you can cut and pre-cook the potatoes ahead of time. Just store them in cold water until you are ready to cook.
→ Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! The steps are straightforward, making it a great choice for novice cooks.
Garlic Butter Pork Chops With Potatoes
I love making Garlic Butter Pork Chops with Potatoes because it's a real comfort dish that brings together juicy pork and flavorful spuds in one easy meal. Whenever I prepare this recipe, the rich aroma fills my kitchen, drawing everyone in. The combination of garlic and butter enhances the meat, making each bite irresistible. Plus, the potatoes soak up all that delicious flavor, creating a hearty side that never disappoints. Trust me, this meal will quickly become a family favorite!
Created by: Felicity Grant
Recipe Type: Homestyle Happiness
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pork Chops and Potatoes
- 4 thick-cut pork chops
- 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
How-To Steps
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the potato wedges and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Place the pork chops in the skillet and sear for about 5 minutes on each side until browned.
Return the potatoes to the skillet, add the remaining butter, and sprinkle the rosemary on top. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for another 15 minutes until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes. Serve hot with the roasted potatoes, drizzled with any pan juices.
Extra Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the pork chops in garlic and herbs for a few hours before cooking. This recipe can also be adapted for a grill during the warmer months.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 28g