Perfect Cast Iron Pork Chops

Name: Perfect Cast Iron Pork Chops
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 thick cut pork chops; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 2 cloves garlic, smashed; 2 sprigs fresh thyme; Salt and black pepper to taste

These cast iron pork chops are incredibly juicy and simple enough for any busy weeknight.

By Enzo81 Kitchen· American· October 25, 2026

enzo81.xyz

Prep

5 minutes

Cook

15 minutes

Total

20 minutes

Serves

There is something so satisfying about a golden, seared pork chop. When you use a cast iron skillet, you get that beautiful crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and moist every single time.

This is my favorite way to cook pork because it relies on good technique instead of complicated sauces. If you want the best results, make sure to pat the chops dry before they hit the hot pan so they get a really nice sear.

Ingredients

2 thick cut pork chops
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
2 cloves garlic, smashed
2 sprigs fresh thyme
Salt and black pepper to taste

7Instructions

1
Remove your pork chops from the fridge about 15 minutes before cooking so they come to room temperature.
2
Pat the chops very dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
3
Heat the olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium high heat until it is shimmering.
4
Place the chops in the pan and sear for about 4 to 5 minutes until a deep golden crust forms.
5
Flip the chops, add the butter, garlic, and thyme to the pan.
6
Baste the pork with the melting butter for another 3 to 4 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
7
Remove the pan from the heat and let the meat rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips

Let the meat rest for a few minutes before cutting so the juices stay inside. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and reheat them gently on the stove.

#pork #dinner #quick #high protein

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