Pan-Seared Pork Chops are a date-night classic. The lean meat is made rich with a sauce of butter, garlic, and thyme. The basting technique used is a staple at high-end restaurants, so you can bring that professional taste home for your special someone. Pair Pan-Seared Pork Chops with sauteed spinach and mashed potatoes for a truly beautiful candlelit dinner. Let your evening sparkle with joy!
Ingredients
- 1 (2-inch-thick) pork chop, bone-in and double-cut
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons grapeseed oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, gently crushed and peeled
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
Directions
Step 1 –Take the pork chops out of the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes prior to cooking to allow them to reach room temperature.
Step 2 –Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Step 3 –Season the pork chops with the salt and the pepper on all sides.
Step 4 –Heat an oven-safe cast-iron skillet over high heat.
Step 5 –Drizzle the skillet with the grapeseed oil.
Step 6 –Once the skillet is heated, sear the pork chops on both sides. Allow it to cook on each side until a nice char forms, for about 2 minutes per side.
Step 7 –Place the oven-safe skillet in the oven to further cook for 6-8 minutes, depending on your preferred level of doneness. The recommended internal temperature for pork is 145 degrees F.
Step 8 –Remove the skillet from the oven and place it back on the stovetop.
Step 9 –Add the butter, the garlic, and the thyme.
Step 10 –Once the butter has melted, shift the pan back and forth with one hand, while basting the pork with the other for 1-2 minutes, being careful that the butter does not burn.
Step 11 –Allow the pork to rest for up to 10 minutes.
Step 12 –Serve.
