👉Garlic ButterBaked PorkChops – Recipes on a Budget

Garlic Butter Baked Pork Chops: A Deliciously Simple Comfort Meal

Description:
These Garlic Butter Baked Pork Chops are an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Tender pork chops are baked to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce, infused with fragrant herbs like oregano and thyme. The combination of buttery goodness and aromatic garlic makes every bite irresistible. Plus, they’re quick and simple to make, so you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients:

4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, as preferred)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup butter, melted
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides and place them in a baking dish large enough to fit all the chops comfortably.
Make the garlic butter sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, melted butter, oregano, and thyme. Stir until well combined.
Coat the pork chops: Pour the garlic butter mixture over the pork chops, making sure to coat each one evenly. For extra flavor, you can spoon some of the sauce over the chops halfway through baking.
Bake the pork chops: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.

Variations:

Herb Butter: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, or basil to the garlic butter mixture for a more aromatic flavor.
Cheesy Pork Chops: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella on top of the pork chops during the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy crust.
Lemon Garlic Butter: For a fresh, citrusy twist, add a tablespoon of lemon juice and zest to the garlic butter sauce.
Spicy Pork Chops: If you love a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the butter mixture.
Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just make sure to check that your butter and seasoning ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Serving Tips:

Sides: Serve these garlic butter pork chops with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad for a balanced meal.
Wine Pairing: Pair these pork chops with a medium-bodied white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
Buns: For a hearty meal, serve the pork chops in soft dinner rolls to make a delicious sandwich.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions):

Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe? Yes, boneless pork chops work perfectly well for this dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.
How do I know when the pork chops are fully cooked? The best way to know if the pork chops are cooked is by using a meat thermometer. Pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
Can I make the garlic butter sauce ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Can I grill the pork chops instead of baking them? Absolutely! Grill the pork chops over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side, brushing with the garlic butter mixture as you go.
How do I avoid dry pork chops? To prevent dry pork chops, make sure you bake them until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F, and avoid overcooking.
Can I substitute the butter for something else? Yes, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute if you prefer.
How long should I let the pork chops rest after baking? Let the pork chops rest for about 3-5 minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat moist.
Can I add vegetables to the baking dish? Yes, you can add vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the size of the vegetables.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double the recipe if you need to feed a larger group. Just be sure to use a larger baking dish.
What can I serve these pork chops with? Mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a simple side salad are great choices to complement these pork chops.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of minced garlic? Yes, fresh garlic can be finely chopped or grated if you prefer. Just ensure it’s well mixed with the butter for even flavor.
Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the leftover pork chops. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and store for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Is this recipe spicy? No, this recipe is not spicy. However, you can add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat if you prefer.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs? Yes, you can use fresh herbs. Use three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried herbs (i.e., 3 teaspoons of fresh thyme instead of 1 teaspoon of dried).
Can I make this recipe without the parsley? Yes, you can leave out the parsley if you prefer or replace it with another herb like cilantro or basil.
Can I marinate the pork chops before baking? Yes, marinating the pork chops for a few hours or overnight can enhance the flavor even more.
Can I make this in an air fryer? Yes, you can cook the pork chops in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and cook the pork chops for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What should I do if I don’t have a baking dish? If you don’t have a baking dish, you can use a sheet pan or any oven-safe dish. Just make sure it’s large enough to fit the pork chops comfortably.
What type of pork chop is best for this recipe? Bone-in pork chops tend to be juicier, but boneless chops work great too.
How do I store leftover garlic butter pork chops? Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

20 Best Tips to Make Perfect Garlic Butter Baked Pork Chops:

Use bone-in pork chops for juicier, more flavorful meat.
Don’t overcook the pork chops—aim for an internal temperature of 145°F.
Rest the pork chops after baking to allow juices to redistribute.
Make the garlic butter mixture in advance to save time on busy nights.
Season generously with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor.
Use a meat thermometer to check the doneness without cutting into the chops.
Baste the chops halfway through cooking for extra flavor and moisture.
Try adding different herbs such as rosemary or sage for variety.
Consider marinating the pork chops for 30 minutes to an hour for deeper flavor.
Add some lemon juice to the garlic butter mixture for a fresh zing.
Avoid overcrowding the baking dish so the pork chops bake evenly.
Use unsalted butter to better control the salt levels in your recipe.
Rest the pork chops for at least 3-5 minutes after baking for better texture.
Add vegetables like carrots or potatoes to bake alongside the pork chops.
Use fresh garlic for a more intense flavor compared to pre-minced garlic.
Sear the pork chops in a pan before baking for extra crispy edges.
Try adding a bit of white wine to the garlic butter sauce for depth.
Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking for consistent cooking.
Make sure the pork chops are uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
Top with fresh herbs just before serving for a pop of color and added freshness.