Cast Iron Skillet Pork Chops
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!
Equipment
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
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.