Buttery Garlic Pork Chops with Smooth Mashed Potatoes

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There’s something truly irresistible about a well-seared pork chop, glistening with a buttery garlic sauce and infused with fresh herbs. These Buttery Garlic Pork Chops are perfectly pan-seared to achieve a golden-brown crust while remaining juicy and tender inside. Paired with smooth, creamy mashed potatoes, this dish is the ultimate comfort food, striking the perfect balance between richness and simplicity.

The garlic-infused butter enhances the natural flavors of the pork, while fresh thyme and a hint of black pepper add depth to every bite. The mashed potatoes, whipped to perfection, soak up the flavorful juices, creating a meal that feels indulgent yet effortless. Whether for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this dish is bound to be a favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Buttery Garlic Pork Chops Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, butter, and fresh herbs creates an irresistibly rich and savory taste.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick cooking time make this an ideal weeknight meal.
• Perfectly Juicy: The pork chops are seared to perfection, locking in their natural juices.
• Ultimate Comfort Food: The creamy mashed potatoes complement the pork beautifully, making every bite satisfying.
• Customizable: You can add your favorite seasonings or switch up the side dish to fit your preferences.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into cooking, having the right tools ensures a smooth and stress-free experience. Here’s what you’ll need and why each tool is essential:

• Cast Iron or Heavy-Bottomed Skillet: A cast iron pan retains heat well, creating that beautiful golden sear on the pork chops. A stainless steel pan works too, but avoid non-stick as it won’t develop the same crust.
• Meat Thermometer: Ensures your pork chops are cooked to a safe yet juicy 145°F (63°C) without overcooking.
• Tongs: Perfect for flipping the pork chops without piercing the meat, keeping all those flavorful juices inside.
• Garlic Press (Optional): Speeds up mincing fresh garlic, ensuring even distribution of flavor.
• Potato Masher or Hand Mixer: Essential for achieving smooth, lump-free mashed potatoes.
• Fine Mesh Strainer (Optional): If you want extra silky mashed potatoes, pressing them through a strainer removes any lumps.

Having these tools ready will make the cooking process much easier, giving you restaurant-quality results at home.

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Preparation Tips

• Bring Pork Chops to Room Temperature: Letting them sit out for 20-30 minutes before cooking helps them cook evenly.
• Pat Dry Before Searing: Moisture prevents browning, so blot the pork chops with a paper towel before seasoning.
• Season Generously: Salt enhances the meat’s natural flavor, while pepper and herbs add depth. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
• Use Warm Milk & Butter for Mashed Potatoes: Cold ingredients can make the potatoes gummy, so warm them before mixing.
• Rest the Meat: Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes after cooking—this redistributes the juices, keeping them moist.

Taking the time to prep properly ensures every bite is flavorful, tender, and worth the effort!

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Ingredients for This Buttery Garlic Pork Chops Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these juicy, flavorful pork chops with creamy mashed potatoes.

For the Pork Chops:

• 2 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika (for color and depth of flavor)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (for basting)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• ½ cup chicken broth (for deglazing the pan)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (for added depth)

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• ½ cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter option)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (for extra flavor)
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup parmesan cheese (optional, but adds a rich, cheesy flavor)

With these ingredients, you’ll have perfectly seasoned pork chops with a buttery garlic sauce and ultra-creamy mashed potatoes to complement them.

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Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Remove the pork chops from the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes.
• Pat them dry with a paper towel, then season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
• Peel and cube the potatoes, mince the garlic, and set aside the butter and thyme for later.

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Step 2: Cook the Mashed Potatoes

• Place the cubed potatoes in a pot of cold, salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
• While the potatoes cook, heat butter in a small pan over low heat, add minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes). Set aside.
• Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them with a potato masher or hand mixer, gradually adding the warm garlic butter, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper. Stir in parmesan cheese if using. Cover and keep warm.

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Step 3: Sear the Pork Chops

• Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
• Place the pork chops in the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on the first side without moving them. Flip and sear for another 3 minutes.
• Reduce heat to medium, add butter, minced garlic, and thyme, and baste the chops by spooning the melted butter over them for 1-2 minutes.

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Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

• Remove the pork chops and let them rest on a plate.
• Pour chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
• Pour the sauce over the resting pork chops.

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Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Plate the pork chops with a generous serving of mashed potatoes.
• Drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the top and garnish with extra fresh thyme.
• Serve immediately and enjoy every bite of this flavorful dish!

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Notes

• Bone-in vs. Boneless Pork Chops: Bone-in chops retain more moisture and flavor, but boneless can be used if preferred. Just be cautious of cooking time to avoid dryness.
• Best Potatoes for Mashing: Russet potatoes yield the fluffiest texture, while Yukon Gold offers a creamy, buttery consistency.
• Adjusting the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer, or whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
• Resting is Key: Always let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before cutting—this keeps them juicy!
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

1. Skipping the Room Temperature Step

Cold pork chops won’t cook evenly. Letting them sit out for 20-30 minutes ensures a perfect sear.

2. Overcrowding the Pan

Too many pork chops in the skillet lowers the temperature, preventing a golden crust. Cook in batches if needed.

3. Moving the Pork Too Soon

For the best sear, let the chops cook undisturbed for at least 3-4 minutes per side.

4. Using Cold Butter in Mashed Potatoes

Cold butter won’t mix evenly. Always melt the butter first and use warm cream for the best texture.

5. Overcooking the Pork

Pork is best at 145°F (63°C) with a slight pink center. Use a meat thermometer to avoid dryness.

6. Skipping the Deglazing Step

Those browned bits in the pan hold so much flavor! Deglazing with broth and Worcestershire sauce enhances the sauce.

7. Not Resting the Meat

Cutting into the pork immediately causes the juices to run out. Let it rest to keep it juicy and tender.

Avoiding these common mistakes will ensure your Buttery Garlic Pork Chops with Smooth Mashed Potatoes turn out perfect every time!

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What to Serve With Buttery Garlic Pork Chops?

A perfectly cooked Buttery Garlic Pork Chop pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some delicious options to complement the flavors of this meal.

1. Roasted Vegetables

A mix of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, and asparagus adds color, crunch, and a touch of natural sweetness.

2. Garlic Green Beans

Sautéed green beans with butter and garlic provide a fresh and crisp contrast to the rich pork chops.

3. Buttery Dinner Rolls

Soft, warm rolls are great for soaking up the delicious garlic butter sauce left on your plate.

4. Steamed Broccoli with Lemon

Light and fresh, steamed broccoli with a squeeze of lemon juice balances the richness of the dish.

5. Honey-Glazed Carrots

A hint of sweetness from honey and a touch of cinnamon makes these carrots an excellent side.

6. Creamed Spinach

For a decadent twist, serve with creamy, cheesy spinach—its smooth texture pairs well with the mashed potatoes.

7. Apple Walnut Salad

A crisp apple salad with walnuts, feta, and balsamic vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the meal.

8. Corn on the Cob

Grilled or boiled corn on the cob, slathered in butter, makes for a simple but satisfying side.

Pairing your Buttery Garlic Pork Chops with Smooth Mashed Potatoes with any of these sides will create a complete and satisfying meal!

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration:

• Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep mashed potatoes in a separate container to maintain texture.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Warm the pork chops in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to keep them moist.
• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C), cover the pork chops with foil, and heat for 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use short bursts at 50% power, covering with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
• Mashed Potatoes: Reheat with a splash of milk or cream in the microwave or stovetop, stirring frequently.

Freezing:

• Pork chops can be frozen for up to 3 months in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Mashed potatoes freeze well, but mix in extra butter or cream when reheating for the best texture.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~450 kcal
• Protein: ~35g
• Carbohydrates: ~30g
• Fat: ~22g
• Saturated Fat: ~10g
• Cholesterol: ~100mg
• Sodium: ~600mg
• Fiber: ~3g

(Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on portion size and ingredient brands used.)

This meal offers a balanced mix of protein, fats, and carbs, making it satisfying and delicious!

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in?

Yes! Boneless pork chops work, but they cook faster and are more prone to drying out. Reduce the cooking time and check for doneness at 135-140°F (57-60°C) before resting.

2. How do I keep my pork chops from drying out?

Avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer. Remove the chops from heat when they reach 145°F (63°C) and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mashed potatoes in advance and reheat them with a bit of milk or butter. The pork chops are best served fresh but can be reheated gently.

4. What’s the best oil to use for searing?

Use olive oil, avocado oil, or vegetable oil—they have high smoke points, helping to achieve a golden crust without burning.

5. Can I make the sauce thicker?

Absolutely! If you want a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of water, then stir it into the pan sauce and let it simmer until thickened.

6. What other seasonings can I add?

You can experiment with smoked paprika, rosemary, sage, cayenne pepper, or even a touch of honey for extra flavor.

7. Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes! Russet potatoes make fluffy mashed potatoes, while Yukon Golds give a creamier texture. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes for mashing.

8. How do I make this meal lighter?

For a healthier version, use less butter, swap heavy cream for milk, and serve with a side salad or roasted veggies instead of mashed potatoes.

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Conclusion

This Buttery Garlic Pork Chops with Smooth Mashed Potatoes recipe is the perfect balance of rich, juicy meat and creamy, flavorful potatoes. The golden sear, garlic-infused butter, and fresh thyme bring out the best in the pork, while the velvety mashed potatoes make every bite incredibly satisfying.

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