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Baked Pork Chops

Juicy, tender baked pork chops seasoned with simple ingredients and baked to perfection.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 285

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 4 bone-in pork chops 1 and 1/4 inches thick
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic smashed
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme optional but recommended

Equipment

  • Cast iron skillet or oven-safe stainless steel skillet
  • Instant-read meat thermometer
  • Paper towels
  • Cutting board
  • Small bowl for seasoning mix
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the kosher salt, ground black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
  3. Pat the pork chops thoroughly dry with paper towels.
  4. Sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over both sides of each pork chop and let them sit for 5 minutes.
  5. Heat the cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes.
  6. Add the olive oil to the skillet, swirl to coat, and place the pork chops in the skillet without moving them for 3 minutes.
  7. Flip the pork chops using tongs and sear the other side for another 2 to 3 minutes.
  8. Add the butter, smashed garlic, and fresh thyme to the pan.
  9. Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 12 minutes.
  10. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
  11. Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chops rest for 3 to 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pairs well with roasted vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.