These garlic butter pork chops are coated with a simple mixture of melted butter, garlic, and thyme, then baked until tender and juicy. As the butter melts, it bastes the meat and creates a savory pan sauce to spoon over the finished chops.

Preparation takes about 5 minutes, followed by roughly 20 minutes in the oven. Because cooking time varies with thickness, use this guide on how long to cook pork chops in the oven when working with thinner or thicker cuts.

For another comforting pork dinner, try these French pork chops with mushroom sauce or pork chops and sauerkraut. 

Ingredients

• 3 sprigs fresh thyme

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp grass-fed butter, melted (plus extra for basting, if desired)

• 2 medium-sized pork chops, heritage breed preferred

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 380°F (193°C).

2. Season the Pork Chops

• Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels.

• Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.

3. Make the Garlic Butter

• In a small saucepan or microwave-safe dish, melt the butter.

• Stir in the minced garlic and thyme, mixing well. Set aside.

4. Sear the Pork Chops

• Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.

• Once the pan is hot, place the pork chops in the skillet.

• Sear for about 4 minutes per side, until golden brown.

5. Roast in the Oven

• Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the pork chops.

• Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.

• Roast until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (medium) to 150°F (medium-well), about 6–8 minutes depending on thickness.

6. Rest and Serve

• Remove the skillet from the oven.

• Spoon the pan juices over the pork chops to baste them before serving.

• Let rest for 3–5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

• Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Make-Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: This recipe is best cooked fresh for the juiciest results.

• Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F to avoid drying out.

Timing

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: ~25 minutes

See more pork recipes:

Easy Instant Pot Pulled Pork

Brown Sugar Pork Chops with Garlic and Herbs

Pork Tenderloin With Balsamic And Thyme