🥩🔥 Pan-Seared Bone-In Pork Chops (with Optional Gravy)
🧾 Ingredients (Serves 2–4)
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2–4 bone-in pork chops, 1 to 1½ inches thick
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1–2 tbsp olive oil or butter
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Salt & black pepper, to taste
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp paprika
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½ tsp onion powder
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Optional: Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs
🔪 Instructions
1️⃣ Bring to Room Temp & Season
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Remove pork chops from the fridge 20–30 minutes before cooking.
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Pat dry and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder on both sides.
2️⃣ Sear the Chops
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Heat oil or butter in a cast-iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add pork chops and sear 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and internal temp reaches 140–145°F (60–63°C).
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Add fresh herbs during the last minute and baste with pan juices for extra flavor.
3️⃣ Rest
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Remove from heat and let rest 5 minutes before serving. This keeps them juicy!
🥣 Optional Gravy (Pan Sauce)
After removing the chops:
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Lower heat to medium.
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Add 1 tbsp flour to the pan and stir into the fat to make a roux.
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Slowly whisk in ¾ to 1 cup chicken broth, scraping up brown bits.
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Add ¼ cup cream or a splash of milk if desired.
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Simmer until thickened. Season to taste.
Pour over chops and serve.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
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Mashed potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, or cheesy grits
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Sautéed green beans, cabbage, or asparagus
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Applesauce or caramelized apples for a sweet touch
🔄 Variations
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Baked: After searing, finish in a 375°F oven for 10–15 minutes.
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Smothered: Cook onions and mushrooms in the pan, then simmer the chops in a creamy gravy.
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Grilled: Marinate chops in olive oil, garlic, and herbs; grill 4–5 min per side.
Would you like a smothered Southern-style version, a slow cooker recipe, or a barbecue rub + grilling guide?
