Buttery Garlic Pork Chops with Smooth Mashed Potatoes
Introduction
Today, I am excited to share with you one of my all-time favorite recipes – Buttery Garlic Pork Chops with Smooth Mashed Potatoes. This dish is incredibly flavorful and satisfying, perfect for a cozy dinner at home. The combination of tender, juicy pork chops with creamy mashed potatoes is simply irresistible. Whether you are cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. So let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the Pork Chops:
– 4 bone-in pork chops
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
For the Mashed Potatoes:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and quartered
– 1/2 cup milk
– 4 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Steps by Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Start by seasoning both sides of the pork chops with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and dried rosemary.
3. In a large oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Place the seasoned pork chops in the skillet and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden brown crust.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the pork chops for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. While the pork chops are baking, prepare the mashed potatoes. Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
7. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the milk and butter, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
9. Serve the Buttery Garlic Pork Chops with a generous scoop of Smooth Mashed Potatoes on the side.
Keto and Low Carb Variations
If you’re following a ketogenic or low-carb diet, you can easily modify this recipe to suit your dietary needs. Instead of potatoes, you can substitute cauliflower for the mashed potatoes. Simply boil the cauliflower until tender, then blend it with butter, cream, and seasonings until smooth. The result is a delicious and creamy cauliflower mash that pairs perfectly with the garlic pork chops.
Additionally, you can replace the butter with olive oil and skip the searing step to reduce the overall fat content of the dish.
Tips
– For extra flavor, marinate the pork chops in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
– Allow the pork chops to rest for a few minutes after baking to ensure maximum juiciness.
– To achieve a crispy crust on the pork chops, make sure to pat them dry with a paper towel before seasoning.
– Don’t overcook the pork chops, as they can become dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
– Feel free to customize the seasoning blend by adding your favorite herbs and spices.
Conclusion
Buttery Garlic Pork Chops with Smooth Mashed Potatoes is a classic dish that never fails to impress. The tender and juicy pork chops, infused with the rich flavors of garlic and herbs, pair perfectly with the creamy and velvety mashed potatoes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is a winner. So why not give it a try and indulge in a truly satisfying and delicious meal?
