If you are looking for a dish that will have everyone asking for the recipe, let me introduce you to the Garlic Marry Me Pork Chops Recipe. This divine dish combines juicy, tender pork chops with a luscious, garlicky cream sauce that features the irresistible punch of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors that feel indulgent yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner, making it a treasured favorite that’s both elegant and comforting. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be convinced that it’s a dish deserving a permanent spot in your cooking rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Garlic Marry Me Pork Chops Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together beautifully to create bold flavors and a silky texture. From spices that season the meat perfectly to cream and Parmesan cheese that give the sauce its richness, every component plays a key role.
- 4 pork chops (boneless, 1-inch thick): Choose thick chops for juicy, tender results that hold up well to the sauce.
- 3/4 tsp garlic powder: Adds a subtle, warm garlic undertone that enhances the minced garlic in the sauce.
- 3/4 tsp onion powder: Brings savory depth and balances the flavors perfectly.
- 3/4 tsp salt: Essential for drawing out the natural flavor of the pork chops.
- 3/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a mild heat and sharpness that wakes up the palate.
- 4 tbsp flour (all-purpose): Used to lightly coat the pork chops, creating a nice sear and thickening the sauce.
- 1.5 tbsp butter (I like Kerrygold unsalted butter for this): Provides rich creaminess that rounds out the sauce.
- 1.5 tbsp olive oil: Helps achieve the perfect crust on the pork chops while infusing subtle fruitiness.
- 4 garlic cloves (minced): The star ingredient that takes this recipe from good to unforgettable.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that complements the garlic and tomato beautifully.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes: Adds a hint of spicy warmth without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 cup white wine (dry, like Pinot Grigio): Adds brightness and acidity to balance the richness.
- 1/2 cup chicken stock (low sodium): Builds a savory base for the sauce’s creamy texture.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and thick.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped): Provides bursts of tangy sweetness that lift the dish.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best flavor): Adds a salty, nutty finish to the creamy sauce.
- Fresh basil (roughly chopped): Brings a fresh herbal note to brighten every bite.
How to Make Garlic Marry Me Pork Chops Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Pork Chops
Pat your pork chops dry with a paper towel to ensure they sear beautifully. In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning evenly over both sides of the pork chops. Lightly coat each chop with flour to help create a golden crust and to thicken the sauce later. This initial seasoning sets the stage for the punchy garlic flavors to shine.
Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the pork chops and cook for about 3 minutes per side, or until they are nicely browned. Don’t rush this step, as that gorgeous sear locks in the juices and adds depth to the flavor. Once browned, transfer the chops to a plate and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3: Build the Garlic Cream Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the white wine and chicken stock, scraping up all the delicious browned bits stuck to the pan. Let this mixture simmer gently for a few minutes, allowing it to reduce and intensify.
Step 4: Finish the Sauce and Add the Pork Chops Back
Stir in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to thicken, stirring occasionally, until it coats the back of a spoon. Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them in the sauce. Simmer gently for 3-5 minutes more to ensure the pork chops absorb the luscious flavors and finish cooking through perfectly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh basil over the pork chops and sauce just before serving. This final touch adds vibrant color and a refreshing herbal aroma that complements the creamy, garlicky sauce. Now you’re ready to dive into the rich, satisfying goodness of the Garlic Marry Me Pork Chops Recipe.
How to Serve Garlic Marry Me Pork Chops Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil isn’t just for looks—its sweet and peppery notes cut through the richness, making each bite brighter. If you want, add an extra sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan for an elegant finish. A few more sun-dried tomato pieces scattered on top will enhance that tangy charm.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery polenta, soaking up the decadent sauce perfectly. For a lighter side, steamed green beans or sautéed spinach bring a fresh, crisp contrast. Roasted vegetables also add texture and a caramelized depth that balances the creamy sauce beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the chops on a large platter with the sauce spooned generously over the top, sprinkled with basil and Parmesan. You can also plate individually with a swirl of sauce around the chop, topped with a basil leaf for a restaurant-quality presentation. The rich sauce makes this dish versatile—try it over pasta or even creamy risotto for a luxurious twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Garlic Marry Me Pork Chops Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pork chops will remain tender, and the sauce keeps its creamy texture for up to 3 days—perfect for quick lunches or reheated dinners.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the dish, place the pork chops and sauce in a freezer-safe container. It’s best to freeze them separately from any delicate sides. The dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat the pork chops with sauce in a skillet over low-medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent the cream sauce from separating. Adding a splash of chicken stock or cream can help revive the sauce’s silky texture. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the pork’s juicy tenderness intact.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops will add extra flavor, but you might need to increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through. Just keep an eye on the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
What if I don’t have white wine? Can I omit it?
If you don’t have white wine, you can substitute it with additional chicken stock and a splash of lemon juice for acidity. The flavor won’t be quite the same, but the sauce will still be delicious and creamy.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap out the butter for a dairy-free spread and use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative instead of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast can replace the Parmesan cheese flavor. The sauce will still be creamy and rich, just with a different profile.
How do I know when the pork chops are cooked perfectly?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer; pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures they are juicy and safe to eat without drying out.
Can I prepare parts of the Garlic Marry Me Pork Chops Recipe ahead of time?
You can season and flour the pork chops a few hours in advance, covering them tightly before refrigerating. The sauce can also be made ahead, then reheated and finished with fresh basil when you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Marry Me Pork Chops Recipe has quickly become a beloved favorite in my kitchen, and I truly encourage you to give it a try. It’s the kind of dish that feels special yet comes together effortlessly, making every meal feel like an occasion. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a small gathering, the rich garlic cream sauce paired with tender pork chops is sure to bring joy and compliments to your table. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
Garlic Marry Me Pork Chops Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Garlic Marry Me Pork Chops are juicy, tender boneless pork chops cooked in a rich and creamy garlic sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil. This quick stovetop recipe combines savory herbs, a touch of white wine, and cream for an irresistible dinner that comes together in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Pork Chops
- 4 pork chops (boneless, 1-inch thick)
- 3/4 tsp garlic powder
- 3/4 tsp onion powder
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1.5 tbsp butter (I like Kerrygold unsalted butter for this)
- 1.5 tbsp olive oil
For the Garlic Cream Sauce
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio)
- 1/2 cup low sodium chicken stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil (roughly chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Season and Coat Pork Chops: In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the pork chops evenly with the seasoning mixture. Dredge each pork chop lightly in the all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess.
- Brown the Pork Chops: Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add pork chops and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chops from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Garlic Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine reduce by half, which will take about 2 minutes.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Stir in the chicken stock and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer and let the sauce thicken slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
- Incorporate Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cheese: Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir well until the cheese melts and sauce becomes creamy.
- Return Pork Chops to Sauce: Place the pork chops back into the skillet, spoon some sauce over them, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors and ensure the pork chops are warmed through.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat, sprinkle with roughly chopped fresh basil, and serve immediately with your choice of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- Use boneless pork chops about 1-inch thick for the best texture and cooking accuracy.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese gives the richest flavor; avoid pre-grated varieties with anti-caking agents.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder sauce.
- Dry white wine is essential for deglazing and adding acidity; Pinot Grigio is a great choice but Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay also work well.
- Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil are preferred; if using dry-packed, rehydrate them in warm water before chopping.
- This recipe can be doubled but cook pork chops in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
