Name: Pan-Seared Pork Chops with Garlic and Sage Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick); Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 3 cloves garlic, smashed; 6-8 fresh sage leaves; 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (optional)

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These pan-seared pork chops are perfectly golden on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, and finished with a fragrant garlic and sage butter that elevates the dish with minimal effort. It’s a classic skillet recipe that feels elegant but is easy enough for a weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers rich flavor from a short ingredient list and a cooking method that locks in moisture and enhances natural flavors. The garlic and sage butter adds a layer of depth and aroma that transforms a simple pork chop into a restaurant-worthy entrée. It’s fast, requires just one skillet, and delivers consistently excellent results.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
salt and freshly ground black pepper
garlic cloves, thinly sliced
fresh sage leaves
unsalted butter
olive oil
optional: white wine or chicken broth for deglazing

directions

Pat pork chops dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Add pork chops to the pan and sear undisturbed for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F or 63°C). Transfer to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet.
Once melted, add sliced garlic and whole sage leaves. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently, until garlic is lightly golden and sage is crisp but not burned.
(Optional) Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine or chicken broth to create a light pan sauce. Scrape up any browned bits with a wooden spoon.
Return pork chops to the skillet and spoon the garlic-sage butter over them for 1–2 minutes to rewarm and infuse flavor.
Serve immediately, spooning additional butter and herbs over each chop.

Servings and timing

Serves 4.
Prep time: 10 minutes.
Cook time: 15 minutes.
Total time: approximately 25 minutes.

Variations

Boneless pork chops: Reduce cooking time by a minute or two for thinner, boneless cuts.
Add apples: Sauté sliced apples alongside garlic and sage for a sweet contrast.
Use rosemary or thyme: Swap sage with other fresh herbs for a different aromatic profile.
Creamy version: Stir in a splash of cream after deglazing for a light cream sauce.
Grilled alternative: Grill pork chops, then top with garlic-sage butter before serving.

storage/reheating

To store: refrigerate leftover pork chops in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To reheat: gently warm in a skillet over medium-low heat with a bit of butter or broth until heated through.
Not recommended for freezing, as the texture of the pork may change.

FAQs

What kind of pork chops should I use?

Bone-in chops about 1 inch thick are ideal for searing. They retain moisture better and develop excellent flavor.

How do I prevent pork chops from drying out?

Avoid overcooking. Remove from heat when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and let them rest before serving.

Can I make this recipe with boneless pork chops?

Yes, just reduce cooking time slightly and monitor closely to avoid overcooking.

Is fresh sage necessary?

Fresh sage provides the best aroma and flavor, but in a pinch, dried sage can be used—start with a smaller amount.

Can I use a non-stick skillet?

A cast iron or stainless-steel skillet is preferred for better browning, but non-stick can be used with careful heat control.

What can I serve with these pork chops?

They pair well with mashed potatoes, sautéed greens, roasted vegetables, or rice.

Can I use ghee or oil instead of butter?

Butter is preferred for flavor, but ghee or clarified butter can be used for higher heat cooking.

Should I brine the pork chops beforehand?

Brining is optional but can enhance juiciness. A simple saltwater brine for 30–60 minutes works well.

Can I make a sauce to serve with this?

Yes, deglazing the pan with wine or broth and stirring in cream or mustard can create a simple sauce.

Can I cook these in the oven?

Yes, sear the pork chops first, then finish in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 5–8 minutes if using thicker cuts.

Conclusion

Pan-seared pork chops with garlic and sage butter offer an exceptional balance of ease, flavor, and elegance. The searing method ensures juicy meat with a golden crust, while the infused butter elevates every bite. Whether you’re preparing a quick weekday dinner or an impressive main for guests, this dish delivers with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

Pan-Seared Pork Chops with Garlic and Sage Butter

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Pan-Seared Pork Chops with Garlic and Sage Butter are juicy, golden-brown chops infused with rich, aromatic flavor from fresh sage and garlic-infused butter.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-Seared
Cuisine: American
Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Scale

4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, smashed
6–8 fresh sage leaves
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (optional)

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Instructions

Pat pork chops dry and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Place pork chops in the skillet and sear for 3–4 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip and sear for another 3–4 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter, smashed garlic, and sage leaves to the skillet.
Tilt the skillet slightly and use a spoon to baste the pork chops with the melted garlic-sage butter for 1–2 minutes.
Remove pork chops from the skillet and let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with lemon juice if desired before serving.