Flavorful Garlic Butter Mushroom Pork Chops

Welcome to your new favorite weeknight dinner! These Garlic Butter Mushroom Pork Chops are a culinary delight, featuring tender, juicy pork chops perfectly seared and then simmered in a luscious, garlicky butter sauce brimming with savory mushrooms. This quick dinner promises a ton of flavor and an elevated dining experience without the fuss.

Preparing a delicious meal has never been easier or more rewarding. Much like our popular Pork Schnitzel, these pork chops come together incredibly fast, making them ideal for busy schedules. For a complete and satisfying meal, we love serving them alongside our creamy German Potato Salad or a light and fluffy Mashed Cauliflower for a fantastic low-carb option.

Close-up overhead shot of perfectly seared garlic butter mushroom pork chops in a cast iron skillet, ready to serve.

Contents

Why You’ll Love These Irresistible Pork Chops

Imagine savoring a meal so exquisite, you’d swear it came from a high-end restaurant, yet it’s effortlessly crafted in your own kitchen. That’s precisely the experience you’ll get with these garlic butter mushroom pork chops. Each bite delivers an explosion of flavor: the succulent tenderness of the pork, the earthy richness of sautéed mushrooms, and the irresistible aromatic embrace of garlicky butter. This dish proves that gourmet flavors don’t require hours of complicated cooking.

Beyond their luxurious taste, these pork chops are incredibly simple to prepare, cooking quickly to achieve that perfect golden sear and juicy interior. The magic truly lies in the garlic mushroom sauce. Made with a generous amount of butter and just a splash of water or chicken stock, it effortlessly deglazes the pan, capturing all the delicious browned bits and transforming them into a velvety, umami-rich elixir that perfectly complements the pork.

These Garlic Butter Mushroom Pork Chops are a dream come true for busy weeknights. From prep to plate, they come together in under 30 minutes. The mushroom topping, infused with garlic, browns beautifully while the chops sear to perfection. Versatile and comforting, these chops pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Think crispy roasted potatoes, vibrant Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts, sweet and savory fried cabbage, or steamed broccoli for a simple yet elegant dinner that everyone will adore.

Essential Ingredients for Garlic Butter Pork Chops

Crafting these delectable pork chops requires a few simple, fresh ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to achieve maximum flavor:

Pork Chops: We highly recommend bone-in pork chops for this recipe. The bone adds extra flavor and helps keep the meat incredibly moist during cooking. Look for chops that are about 1 to 1.5 inches thick for the best results. While bone-in is preferred, boneless pork chops can also be used; just be mindful of their thinner nature as they will cook faster.
Mushrooms: Any type of mushroom will work beautifully, but we particularly love baby Bella (cremini) mushrooms for their robust, earthy flavor and firm texture. Sliced white button mushrooms or even exotic varieties like shiitake can also be excellent choices. Freshness is key here, so pick mushrooms that are firm and free of blemishes.
Fresh Garlic: This is a star ingredient, providing the aromatic foundation for our incredible butter sauce. Using fresh garlic bulbs is non-negotiable for the best flavor. Take the time to mince or chop them finely; the effort is well worth it. Avoid pre-minced garlic in a jar if possible, as it often lacks the punch of fresh cloves.
Chicken Stock: A crucial element for deglazing the pan, chicken stock (or broth) adds depth and savory notes to the sauce, helping to scrape up all those flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. If you don’t have chicken stock, water can be used in a pinch, though the stock will enhance the overall richness of the sauce.
Butter and Olive Oil: This dynamic duo is our secret to achieving a perfect sear on the pork chops and beautifully browned mushrooms. Olive oil has a higher smoke point, preventing the butter from burning too quickly, while butter imparts its unmistakable richness and helps develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust on both the pork and the mushrooms.
Seasonings: Beyond salt and freshly ground black pepper, a touch of smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky undertone and a beautiful color to the mushroom sauce, elevating its complexity.

Overhead shot of sliced mushrooms and minced garlic sautéing in melted butter in a hot cast iron skillet.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Perfect Pork Chops

Achieving perfectly tender and juicy pork chops with a flavorful garlic butter mushroom sauce is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps for a flawless dinner:

Prepare Your Skillet: Begin by heating one tablespoon of olive oil in a sturdy skillet over medium-high heat. A cast iron skillet is highly recommended here, as its excellent heat retention properties are key to achieving that desirable golden-brown crust and even cooking on your pork chops and later, the mushrooms. Allow it to get nice and hot, just to the point where it shimmers slightly.
Season the Pork Chops: While the skillet heats, pat your pork chops dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps ensure a beautiful sear. Generously season both sides of each pork chop with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
Sear the Pork Chops: Carefully place the seasoned pork chops into the hot skillet. Sear each side for approximately 3 to 4 minutes, or until a deep golden-brown crust forms. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your chops and the heat of your skillet. For food safety and optimal tenderness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Pork chops are safely cooked when they reach at least 145°F (63°C) at their thickest part. Once cooked, transfer the chops to a clean plate, tent loosely with foil, and set aside. This allows them to rest and their juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
Create the Mushroom Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Add two tablespoons of unsalted butter to the same skillet (no need to clean it – those browned bits are flavor!). Once the butter is melted and slightly foaming, add your minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Sauté the mushrooms, stirring frequently, until they are tender and have released their moisture, about 5-7 minutes.
Deglaze the Pan: Pour ¼ cup of chicken stock or water into the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up all the flavorful browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the pan. This step, known as deglazing, infuses the sauce with incredible depth and richness. Let it simmer for a minute or two, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly.
Combine and Simmer: Add the remaining two tablespoons of butter to the skillet and let it melt into the mushroom sauce. Once melted and thoroughly combined, carefully return the seared pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the rich mushroom sauce. Allow everything to simmer together for another 2 to 3 minutes, just enough time for the flavors to meld and the pork chops to warm through, absorbing some of that delicious sauce.
Serve Immediately: Your Garlic Butter Mushroom Pork Chops are now ready! Serve them hot with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Choosing the Right Pork Chops for Your Recipe

The type of pork chop you choose can significantly impact the outcome of your dish. For this recipe, we specifically used and recommend bone-in pork chops. The bone not only contributes to a deeper, more robust flavor profile but also acts as a natural insulator, helping the chop cook more evenly and retain moisture, resulting in a noticeably juicier outcome.

However, don’t fret if you only have boneless pork chops on hand! They can certainly be used, but you’ll need to adjust your cooking time. Boneless chops are typically thinner and will cook much faster. Regardless of your choice, the most critical tool in your kitchen arsenal for this recipe (and all meat cooking) is a reliable meat thermometer. Pork should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, or slightly higher for more well-done preferences, followed by a brief resting period to allow the juices to redistribute. Always check the thickest part of the chop, avoiding the bone, to ensure it’s cooked through but not overdone, which can lead to dry meat.

When selecting pork chops, look for ones that are about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. This thickness allows for a beautiful sear on the exterior while keeping the interior tender and juicy. Thinner chops might dry out quickly, while much thicker cuts will require a longer searing time or a finish in the oven to cook through properly without burning the outside.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Garlic Butter Pork Chops

These flavorful garlic butter mushroom pork chops are incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide array of side dishes. When planning your meal, you can’t go wrong with classic comforts or lighter, healthier options.

My go-to choice often revolves around potatoes, as pork chops perfectly embody the quintessential “meat and potatoes” dinner. You have plenty of options here: creamy mashed potatoes to soak up that delectable sauce, crispy roasted yellow or red potatoes, or even baked sweet potatoes for a touch of natural sweetness. Any potato preparation will complement the rich flavors of the pork and mushrooms.

Beyond potatoes, a bounty of vegetables can elevate your meal. Consider these delightful options:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly bitter, nutty flavor and crisp texture offer a wonderful contrast to the rich pork.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: A simple, nutritious, and incredibly tasty side that adds vibrant color and a pleasant crunch.
Roasted Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower: A fantastic low-carb alternative to potatoes, with a similar roasted flavor profile.
Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, glazed carrots add a touch of sweetness that balances the savory notes of the dish.
Green Beans Almondine: A classic and elegant side, featuring crisp-tender green beans with toasted almonds.
Creamed Spinach: Rich and comforting, creamed spinach is a luxurious complement to the pork.
Creamed Corn: For a touch of sweetness and creamy texture, this Southern-inspired side is a winner.
Asparagus: Whether roasted, steamed, or grilled, asparagus adds a fresh, slightly bitter note that cleanses the palate.
Garden Salad: A light and fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can cut through the richness of the dish beautifully.
Rice or Quinoa: For a heartier meal, a bed of fluffy rice or protein-rich quinoa makes an excellent base for the pork and sauce.

Choose your sides based on your preference and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal or a lighter, low-carb option, these garlic butter mushroom pork chops are designed to impress.

Close-up shot of a single perfectly cooked pork chop on a white plate, with a fork holding a piece of meat and mushrooms.

Explore More Low-Carb Dinner Recipes

If you’re looking for more delicious and healthy low-carb meal ideas, be sure to check out these fantastic recipes:

Skillet Chicken Thighs
French Onion Roasted Chicken Recipe
Easy Grilled Shrimp
How to Cook Filet Mignon

If you try this recipe and love it, please let me know! Leave a comment and rate it below to share your experience. Your feedback is truly appreciated!

Delicious Garlic Butter Mushroom Pork Chops, a quick and flavorful dinner.

Garlic Butter Mushroom Pork Chops Recipe

Author: Anna

These Garlic Butter Mushroom Pork Chops are tender and juicy chops seared and simmered in garlicky butter and mushrooms. A quick dinner with a ton of flavor!

Rating: 4.88 from 57 votes

Print Recipe
Pin Recipe

Prep & Cook Time

Prep Time:	5 mins
Cook Time:	15 mins
Total Time:	20 mins

Recipe Overview

Course:	Main Course
Cuisine:	American
Servings:	2 servings
Calories:	570 kcal per serving

Ingredients

2 bone-in pork chops
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
5 medium baby Bella mushrooms, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
¼ cup water or chicken stock
½ teaspoon salt (for mushrooms)
¼ teaspoon black pepper (for mushrooms)
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

In a cast iron skillet, heat up 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
Season pork chops on both sides with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
Sear pork chops on each side for 3 to 4 minutes, until golden brown. Check the internal temperature to ensure it is at least 145℉ (63°C).
Remove pork chops onto a plate and set aside, tented loosely with foil.
Place two tablespoons of butter in the skillet and let it melt. Add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Season with ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika. Sauté, stirring often, until mushrooms are tender. Add ¼ cup of chicken stock or water to the skillet and scrape all of the browned bits from the bottom of the pan to deglaze.
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, return the seared pork chops to the skillet. Simmer everything together for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Notes

The calorie count provided is for the pork chops with sauce only, and does not include any accompanying potatoes or other side dishes.
You can easily use boneless pork chops as a substitute for bone-in chops. Just be aware that boneless chops will typically cook faster, so monitor their internal temperature carefully to prevent overcooking.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Tried this recipe?