Prepare to transform your ordinary dinner into a culinary masterpiece with these mouthwatering sage-infused pork chops that will have your family begging for seconds! Imagine cutting into a perfectly seared, golden-brown chop that's crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with aromatic fresh sage flavor. This restaurant-quality recipe is surprisingly simple to make, proving that gourmet cooking can be achievable right in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Remove pork chops from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better sear and crispy exterior.
- Season both sides of the pork chops generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring even coverage.
- Finely chop fresh sage leaves and mince garlic cloves, preparing them for seasoning the pork chops.
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat and add a thin layer of olive oil.
- Once the oil is shimmering and hot, carefully place the seasoned pork chops into the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Sprinkle chopped sage and minced garlic over the top of the pork chops while they cook.
- Cook pork chops for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side, or until a golden-brown crust forms and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness, ensuring the pork is cooked through but still juicy.
- Remove pork chops from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with additional fresh sage leaves if desired, and serve immediately with your choice of side dishes.
Tips
- Temperature is key: Always let your pork chops sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Moisture matters: Pat the pork chops completely dry with paper towels to guarantee a gorgeous, crispy sear.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cook pork chops in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and achieve that perfect golden crust.
- Use a meat thermometer: Cooking to exactly 145°F (63°C) ensures juicy, safely cooked pork without drying out.
- Resting is crucial: Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.
- Fresh sage makes a difference: Use freshly chopped sage leaves for the most vibrant, aromatic flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 343kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 80mg
