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Dinner

Perfect Cast Iron Pork Chops

These cast iron pork chops are incredibly juicy and simple to make for a quick weeknight dinner.

By Recipes By Nani· 🌍 American· September 21, 2026
Perfect Cast Iron Pork Chops
recipesbynani.com
Prep
10 minutes
Cook
10 minutes
Total
20 minutes
Serves
2

There is truly nothing better than a perfectly seared pork chop. Using a cast iron skillet helps you get that beautiful golden crust while keeping the inside tender and moist every single time.

I love this recipe because it relies on basic pantry staples rather than anything fancy. My best tip is to let the chops rest for a few minutes before you cut into them so the juices stay right where they belong.

🧺 Ingredients

  • 2 thick cut pork chops
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme

👩‍🍳Instructions

  1. 1

    Take your pork chops out of the fridge about twenty minutes before you plan to cook them so they come to room temperature.

  2. 2

    Pat the pork chops very dry with paper towels on both sides and season them generously with salt and pepper.

  3. 3

    Place your cast iron skillet over medium high heat and add the olive oil.

  4. 4

    Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the pork chops in the pan. Let them sear undisturbed for about four to five minutes until a deep golden crust forms.

  5. 5

    Flip the chops over and add the butter, smashed garlic, and thyme sprigs to the pan.

  6. 6

    Cook for another four minutes while spooning the melted butter over the chops as they finish cooking.

  7. 7

    Remove the chops from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for five minutes before serving.

💡 Tips

Serve these with a side of roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes. If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days and reheat them gently in a pan with a splash of water.

Made this recipe? Let us know how it went.

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