Buttery Garlic Pork Chops with Smooth Mashed Potatoes
Description
This Buttery Garlic Pork Chops with Smooth Mashed Potatoes recipe is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings restaurant-quality taste to your table. The pork chops are seared to golden perfection and infused with garlic butter for an irresistible depth of flavor. Paired with creamy mashed potatoes, this meal is both satisfying and simple to prepare, making it perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried thyme, oregano, basil mix)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- ½ cup chicken broth (or white wine for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 large russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- ½ cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (optional for extra garlic flavor)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for added richness)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potato chunks and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Add butter, heavy cream, and minced garlic (if using). Mash until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in salt, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Keep warm while preparing the pork chops.
2. Cook the Pork Chops:
- Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the pork chops and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Reduce heat to medium and add butter, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Spoon the garlic butter over the chops continuously for 1-2 minutes to infuse flavor.
- Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for another 3-4 minutes until the chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
3. Serve & Enjoy:
- Plate the pork chops over a generous scoop of creamy mashed potatoes.
- Drizzle the garlic butter sauce from the skillet over the top.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Notes & Tips
✔ Pork Chop Thickness: Use bone-in pork chops for more juiciness. If using boneless, adjust cooking time to prevent dryness.
✔ Avoid Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops reach 145°F (63°C) for a juicy, tender bite.
✔ Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes: Keep mashed potatoes warm in a slow cooker on low or reheat with a little extra cream.
✔ For a Crispy Finish: After basting, pop the pork chops in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 5 minutes for extra crispiness.
✔ Alternative Sides: Serve with steamed vegetables, roasted asparagus, or buttered green beans for a balanced meal.
Servings & Nutritional Info
Servings: 4
Per Serving:
- Calories: ~520
- Protein: ~35g
- Carbs: ~35g
- Fats: ~28g
- Fiber: ~4g
- Sodium: ~650mg
(Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands.)
Health Benefits
✅ High in Protein – Pork chops provide essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair.
✅ Good Source of Healthy Fats – The butter and olive oil help with nutrient absorption and add richness.
✅ Rich in Potassium – Potatoes support heart health and proper muscle function.
✅ Garlic’s Health Perks – Contains antioxidants that support immunity and reduce inflammation.
Q&A Section
Q: Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes! Just be cautious as boneless pork chops tend to cook faster and can dry out more easily. Reduce cooking time accordingly.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store pork chops and mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Swap butter for dairy-free alternatives like vegan butter and use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream in mashed potatoes.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat pork chops?
For best results, reheat pork chops in a skillet over low heat with a little broth to keep them moist. Avoid microwaving as it may dry them out.
Q: Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare them a day ahead and reheat with extra butter or cream for freshness.
Enjoy your Buttery Garlic Pork Chops with Smooth Mashed Potatoes—a delicious, hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor! Let me know if you need any modifications or substitutions! 😊🍽️