These Cast Iron Skillet Pork Chops make an easy dinner recipe that’s ready in minutes. Pork chops are seasoned and then pan-seared in a cast iron skillet with fresh herbs and buttery garlic. It’s a simple dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights!

You should also try this Creamy Pork Tenderloin, Air Fryer Boneless Pork Chops, and Sheet Pan Pork Chops!

pork chops in a black cast iron skillet

If you’ve never tried cooking pork chops in a cast iron skillet, you’re in for a real treat, friends.

This might just be my new favorite method to cook pork chops. It’s fast, easy, and requires just a handful of ingredients to make flavorful pork chops.

These bone-in pork chops are seasoned with fresh herbs and then cooked in a mixture of garlic and butter. By flipping the pork chops every few minutes, they cook evenly and quickly. The result is a juicy, flavorful chop…no dry pork chops over here!

Serve them alongside creamy mashed potatoes or veggies for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.

pork chops on a white plate with mashed potatoes and green beans

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Simple ingredients: just six ingredients (plus salt and pepper) are all you need for these cast iron pork chops.
  • Easy: With minimal prepping and cook time, you can have this easy dinner idea ready to be devoured in just 25 minutes. 
  • One-pan wonder: Using a cast-iron pan means easy clean-up. You can sear and finish cooking the juicy pork chops all in one pan.
  • Flavorful: If you’re looking for a great flavor, this recipe hits the spot with fresh thyme, fresh rosemary, minced garlic, and butter.
  • Versatile: You can switch up the fresh herbs or cut of pork to suit your needs. 
uncooked pork chops on a white plate and rest of ingredients in small bowls

Ingredients Needed:

  • Pork chops: I prefer to use bone-in, center cut pork chops for the best flavor.
  • Salt and black pepper: For seasoning.
  • Seasonings: Fresh thyme and rosemary to elevate the flavor.
  • Olive oil: I like to sear the pork chops in olive oil, as this can withstand high heat.
  • Unsalted butter: I always use unsalted in all of my recipes so that I can control the amount of salt in each one.
  • Minced garlic: For that garlicky touch.
uncooked pork chops seasoned on a white plate
pork chops cooking in a black cast iron skillet with melted butter
pork chops in black cast iron skillet with herbs and rosemary on top of pork

How to Make:

  • Rest: If you have the time, let the pork chops sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes before cooking. This will help ensure an even cooking time and a better flavor.
  • Season: Pat each chop dry and then season on both sides with salt, pepper, and chopped thyme.
  • Heat your skillet: Heat the cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add olive oil and pork chops. Sear for 2-3 minutes, then flip and sear on the other side for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown.
  • Add the butter and garlic: Place the butter and garlic into the skillet and let the butter melt. Tip the skillet to one side to let the butter pool and then spoon the butter and garlic mixture over each pork chop. Add a sprig of rosemary on top of each chop.
  • Continue to flip and cook: cook pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, flipping occasionally until cooked through. Each time you flip the chops, spoon some of the butter mixture over each one.

How to Chose the Perfect Pork Chop:

I personally prefer to use a bone-in, center cut chop, as this will lend the most flavor and help prevent the chops from drying out when cooking. Look for one that is about 1-1 ½ inches thick.

If you prefer boneless chops, that works well in this recipe. However, you will need to adjust the cooking time, depending on the size and thickness of the chops.

pork chops in a black cast iron skillet with rosemary and herbs

How to Store:

Leftover pork chops will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

  • To freeze: place in a freezer-safe container or bag in the freezer for up to two months. When ready to serve, let thaw completely in the refrigerator.

Recipe Variations:

  • Honey Mustard Glaze: Mix equal parts honey and Dijon mustard, then brush it on the chops during the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet and tangy finish.
  • Apple Cider Reduction: After searing the chops, deglaze the skillet with apple cider. Let it reduce into a syrupy sauce to drizzle over the pork for a touch of sweetness.
  • Spicy Cajun: Rub the chops with a blend of Cajun spices for a zesty kick. 
  • Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic vinegar in the skillet after cooking and then add a touch of honey for sweetness.

Tips for Making the Best Cast Iron Skillet Pork Chop Recipe:

  • Choose the Right Cut: Thich bone-in pork chops are ideal for more flavor and moisture, but boneless chops can work well too. Look for chops that are at least 1-1 1/2 inches thick for the best results.
  • Bring to Room Temperature: Let the pork chops sit at room temperature for at least 15-30 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook more evenly.
  • Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Salt, pepper, and thyme makes these pork chops extra flavorful.
  • Preheat Your Skillet: Make sure your cast iron skillet is hot before the olive oil and pork. A properly heated skillet will create a golden sear and prevent the meat from sticking.
  • Use High Smoke Point Oil: Opt for oils like avocado, canola, or grapeseed oil that can withstand high heat.
  • Sear and Flip: Sear the chops undisturbed for a few minutes to develop a nice crust, then flip them using tongs.
  • Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F for perfectly cooked pork. 
  • Let the Pork Rest: Once the pork chops are done cooking, let them rest on a plate or cutting board for at least 5 minutes so they retain their juices.
pork chops on a white plate with mashed potatoes and green beans with a bite of pork shown on a fork

Looking for More Simple Dinner Ideas? I’ve Got You Covered!

pork chops in a black cast iron skillet

Cast Iron Skillet Pork Chops

Yield: 2
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
These Cast Iron Skillet Pork Chops make an easy dinner recipe that's ready in minutes. Pork chops are seasoned and then pan-seared in a cast iron skillet with fresh herbs and buttery garlic. It's a simple dish that's perfect for busy weeknights!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe Leave a Review

Ingredients
 

  • 2 bone-in, center cut pork chops, (about 1-1½ inches thick)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme, (plus more for garnish, if desired)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary

Equipment

Instructions
 

  • If possible, let pork chops sit at room temperature for at least 15-30 minutes before cooking. If there is a thick fat cap on the sides of pork chops, make several slits through them, as this will help the meat not curl when cooking. Pat pork chops dry and season on both sides with salt, pepper, and chopped thyme.
  • Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium heat and once hot, add olive oil. Then, add pork chops and sear for about 2-3 minutes, then flip and sear the other side for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown.
  • Add butter and minced garlic to skillet and let butter melt. Tip pan to pool the butter to one side of the skillet and spoon butter and garlic mixture over each pork chop. Flip each pork chop, spoon more butter over each one and top with a sprig of rosemary (see note below).
  • Continue cooking pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through and the temperature reaches 145℉. Each time you flip the pork chop, spoon the butter mixture over each one. Once the pork chops are done cooking, let rest for 5 minutes on a cutting board or separate plate so that they retain its juices and then serve immediately.

Notes

  • I chose not to chop the fresh rosemary, but if you prefer, you can chop about 2 tablespoons and sprinkle over pork chops before cooking in step #1.
  • Leftover pork chops will last in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
  • See my tips and tricks for making these Cast Iron Skillet Pork Chops above the recipe box.
Cuisine: American
Course: Main Course
Author: Gayle
Did you make this recipe?Let me know! Mention @pumpkin_n_spice on Instagram or tag #pumpkin_n_spice.