Best Pan-Seared Pork Chops

Best Pan-Seared Pork Chops

4 servings
Savory, moist pork chops seared in cast-iron and finished in a hot oven.

Ingredients

  • bone-in pork chops

    1 1/2 in thick

    4
  • extra-virgin olive oil
    2 tbsp
  • salt
    1 tsp
  • black pepper
    ½ tsp
  • butter
    1 ½ tbsp
  • dried thyme

    or 1 full sprig fresh

    ½ tsp
  • dried rosemary

    crumbled, or 1 full sprig fresh

    ½ tsp

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 400° F

  2. 2

    Rub chops with salt, pepper and dried herbs. (If using fresh, set them aside for use later in the process.)

  3. 3

    Heat olive oil in cast-iron skillet over high heat until the first whisps of smoke appear (about 410° F). Lay chops in hot oil.

  4. 4

    Fry chops for 4 minutes on each side, flipping just once. Add butter (and fresh herbs, if using) and spoon over chops 2 or three times.

  5. 5

    Place chops in hot oven and finish to internal temp of 145° F (about 6 minutes at 400° F)

  6. 6

    Remove skillet from oven and remove chops to serving plate, basting one more time with oil/butter from pan before resting for three minutes.

Best Pan-Seared Pork Chops

Best Pan-Seared Pork Chops

40 min4 servings260 cal

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About this Recipe

Craving juicy, perfectly cooked pork chops that rival your favorite steakhouse? This recipe for Best Pan-Seared Pork Chops delivers savory, moist results right in your own kitchen, transforming a simple cut into a memorable meal.

The magic of these chops lies in the cast-iron sear, which creates an irresistible golden crust, followed by a quick finish in a hot oven. This dual-cooking method ensures the pork remains incredibly moist and tender on the inside, preventing the dry, chewy texture often associated with poorly cooked chops. Simple yet effective seasoning with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary enhances the natural flavor of the pork without overpowering it.

Prepare for a main course that’s both comforting and impressive. Each bite of these bone-in pork chops offers a beautiful contrast: a savory, slightly crispy exterior gives way to incredibly tender, juicy meat infused with aromatic herbs. The pan drippings, enriched with butter, thyme, and rosemary, create a subtle glaze that coats the chops, adding depth to their natural savoriness. Despite its elegant outcome, this recipe is straightforward, focusing on proper technique to achieve restaurant-quality results with ease.

Customization & Variations

While this recipe shines with classic bone-in chops, feel free to experiment.

  • For an extra aromatic kick, swap the dried thyme and rosemary for fresh sprigs; they release even more fragrant oils when seared.
  • If you prefer a leaner flavor, you can slightly reduce the butter, though it contributes significantly to the chops' rich finish.
  • Consider a pinch of garlic powder alongside the salt and pepper for another layer of classic flavor.

These pan-seared pork chops are perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or elegant enough for a small gathering. They pair wonderfully with a simple green salad, roasted potatoes, or your favorite seasonal vegetables, making for a complete and delicious meal.

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