Juicy, tender pork chops seared to perfection and bathed in a rich, buttery garlic sauce—this dish is pure comfort on a plate. Paired with creamy, velvety mashed potatoes, it’s a meal that brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite. The golden-brown crust on the pork chops locks in flavor, while the garlic butter enhances the natural richness of the meat. The mashed potatoes, whipped to perfection, provide the perfect base to soak up the delicious juices.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is incredibly easy to make yet impressive enough to wow your guests. The combination of savory, garlicky pork and fluffy, buttery potatoes creates a balance of textures and flavors that will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients for Buttery Garlic Pork Chops with Smooth Mashed Potatoes

For the Pork Chops:

4 bone-in or boneless pork chops
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh)
1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or fresh)
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ cup chicken broth (optional, for extra sauce)

For the Mashed Potatoes:

4 large russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
½ cup whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
4 tablespoons butter
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Peel and cut the potatoes into evenly sized chunks to ensure even cooking.
Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and add a pinch of salt.
Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them using a potato masher or hand mixer until smooth.
Add butter, warm milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy. Cover and set aside.

Step 2: Season the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels.
Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and rosemary.

Step 3: Sear the Pork Chops

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once hot, add the pork chops and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crispy.
Reduce the heat to medium, add butter and minced garlic to the pan, and spoon the melted butter over the chops as they cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Sauce (Optional)

If you want extra sauce, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan for added flavor.
Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then return the pork chops to the pan and coat them in the sauce.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Plate the pork chops alongside a generous scoop of mashed potatoes.
Drizzle with any remaining garlic butter sauce from the pan.
Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration:

Store leftover pork chops and mashed potatoes in separate airtight containers. The pork chops will stay fresh for up to 3 days, while the mashed potatoes last for about 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing:

Pork Chops: Wrap each chop individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Mashed Potatoes: Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Add a little extra butter or cream before freezing to maintain texture. They last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating:

Pork Chops: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth to keep them moist, or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry them out.
Mashed Potatoes: Reheat in the microwave, adding a splash of milk and stirring every 30 seconds, or warm on the stovetop over low heat while stirring frequently.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Calories: 480-550 kcal
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Sodium: 650mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g

(Nutrition values may vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use boneless pork chops instead?

Yes! Boneless pork chops work just as well, though they may cook a little faster. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

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

Avoid overcooking them! Use a meat thermometer and remove them from heat when they reach 145°F (63°C). Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

3. What’s the best potato type for mashed potatoes?

Yukon Gold potatoes provide the creamiest texture, but russet potatoes also work well for a fluffier mash.

4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Swap butter for dairy-free margarine and use unsweetened almond or oat milk instead of regular milk.

5. What can I serve with this dish?

Steamed vegetables, roasted asparagus, or a fresh green salad pair wonderfully with this meal.

6. Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the mashed potatoes and pork chops ahead of time, then store and reheat them when ready to serve.

7. How do I add extra flavor to the mashed potatoes?

Mix in roasted garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, or even a touch of sour cream for added richness.

8. Can I use a different type of meat?

Definitely! This recipe works well with chicken breasts or even steak using the same garlic butter method.

Buttery Garlic Pork Chops with Smooth Mashed Potatoes

Author: Nora Sinclair
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the rich, savory flavors of buttery garlic pork chops paired with smooth, creamy mashed potatoes. This quick and easy dinner recipe delivers perfectly seared pork chops infused with fragrant garlic butter, ensuring a juicy and flavorful bite every time. The mashed potatoes, whipped to silky perfection, provide the ideal balance of texture and comfort. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight meal or an elegant dinner idea, this recipe is sure to impress. Serve it with a side of roasted veggies or a crisp salad for a well-rounded and delicious feast.

Instructions

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Peel and cut the potatoes into even-sized chunks.
- Place them in a pot, cover with water, and add a pinch of salt.
- Boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Drain and mash until smooth. Stir in butter, warm milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cover and set aside.
Season the Pork Chops
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and rosemary.
Sear the Pork Chops
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Reduce heat to medium, add butter and minced garlic. Spoon the melted butter over the chops while cooking for another 2 minutes.
Make the Sauce (Optional)
- Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside.
- Pour chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up browned bits for flavor.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes, then return the pork chops to coat them in the sauce.
Serve & Garnish
- Plate the pork chops alongside the mashed potatoes.
- Drizzle with the garlic butter sauce.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner