# **Buttery Garlic Pork Chops with Smooth Mashed Potatoes: A Comforting Classic**
When you’re in the mood for a meal that’s both comforting and elegant, **Buttery Garlic Pork Chops with Smooth Mashed Potatoes** is the perfect choice. This dish features juicy, pan-seared pork chops bathed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce, paired with creamy, velvety mashed potatoes. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the recipe, share tips for perfecting your dish, and explore creative ways to serve and store it. Let’s get cooking!
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## **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
1. **Juicy and Flavorful Pork Chops:** Seared to golden perfection and smothered in a buttery garlic sauce.
2. **Creamy Mashed Potatoes:** Buttery, rich, and ultra-smooth—the perfect side dish.
3. **Quick and Easy:** Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
4. **One-Pan Recipe:** Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
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## **The Ingredients: Simple and Satisfying**
### **For the Pork Chops:**
– **Boneless Pork Chops:** 1-inch thick for the best juiciness.
– **Butter:** Adds richness and flavor to the garlic sauce.
– **Garlic:** Minced for deep, savory taste.
– **Olive Oil:** Helps achieve an even, golden sear.
– **Dried Thyme:** Adds an earthy, aromatic touch.
– **Salt and Pepper:** Season to taste.
### **For the Smooth Mashed Potatoes:**
– **Potatoes:** Yukon Gold or Russet work best for a creamy texture.
– **Heavy Cream:** Makes the mashed potatoes super smooth.
– **Butter:** Adds creaminess and flavor.
– **Salt:** Enhances the taste.
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes**
1. In a large pot, add **4 large peeled and chopped potatoes** and cover with cold water.
2. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for **15–20 minutes**, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Drain and return potatoes to the pot.
5. Add **½ cup heavy cream**, **2 tbsp butter**, and salt, then mash until smooth and creamy.
6. Cover and set aside while you prepare the pork chops.
### **2. Sear the Pork Chops**
1. Pat dry **4 boneless pork chops** with a paper towel and season both sides with salt, pepper, and **½ tsp dried thyme**.
2. Heat **1 tbsp olive oil** in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add pork chops and sear for **3–4 minutes per side**, or until golden brown.
4. Remove the pork chops and set them aside on a plate (they will finish cooking in the sauce).
### **3. Make the Buttery Garlic Sauce**
1. In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add **3 tbsp butter**.
2. Stir in **4 cloves minced garlic** and cook for **30 seconds**, stirring frequently (don’t let it burn!).
3. Return the pork chops to the pan, spooning the garlic butter sauce over the top.
4. Cover and let cook for **3–5 minutes** until the pork reaches **145°F (63°C)** internally.
### **4. Serve and Enjoy!**
1. Plate the smooth mashed potatoes and place a juicy, buttery garlic pork chop on top.
2. Spoon extra garlic butter sauce over the pork for added richness.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for an elegant finish.
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## **How to Serve This Dish**
– **With Roasted Vegetables:** Asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts make great sides.
– **With a Side Salad:** A crisp salad balances out the richness of the dish.
– **With Garlic Bread:** For extra indulgence, serve with warm garlic bread.
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## **Storage and Reheating Tips**
– **Refrigerate:** Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to **3 days**.
– **Reheat:** Warm pork chops in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or butter to keep them juicy.
– **Freeze:** Mashed potatoes freeze well, but pork chops are best enjoyed fresh.
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## **Why This Recipe is a Must-Try**
This Buttery Garlic Pork Chops with Smooth Mashed Potatoes is a restaurant-worthy meal that’s simple, comforting, and absolutely delicious. It’s the perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party. The combination of juicy pork chops and creamy mashed potatoes is sure to impress.
So, grab your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make!
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💬 **What’s your favorite way to cook pork chops? Share your thoughts, tips, or photos in the comments below! Let’s inspire each other with new ideas.** ⬇️🥩✨