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Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
Start by boiling the potatoes. Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
While the potatoes are cooking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over low heat and add the milk or cream. Stir occasionally to keep it warm.
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them well and return them to the pot. Begin mashing them using a potato masher or hand mixer. Gradually add the butter, warm milk, and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Continue mashing until the potatoes are smooth and creamy. For even smoother potatoes, you can use a hand mixer or potato ricer. Garnish with freshly chopped chives for a burst of color and flavor.
2. Cook the Pork Chops:
While the potatoes are cooking, you can prepare the pork chops. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the pork chops and sear for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust. Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook the chops in batches if necessary.
After searing both sides, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the chicken broth (or white wine) to the skillet, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful browned bits. Stir in the remaining butter and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, if using. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to thicken slightly.
4. Finish Cooking the Pork Chops:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning some of the garlic butter sauce over them. Cover the skillet and let the chops cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Baste the pork chops occasionally with the sauce to keep them moist and flavorful.
Once the pork chops are cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the pork chops alongside a generous serving of the smooth mashed potatoes. Drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the pork chops and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
For an extra touch, you can serve the mashed potatoes with a dollop of extra butter or sprinkle with some additional chives.
Tips for Success:
- For Extra Tender Pork Chops: To ensure your pork chops are tender and juicy, avoid overcooking them. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, and let the chops rest for a few minutes after cooking.
- Creamier Mashed Potatoes: For even creamier mashed potatoes, add a bit more butter or use heavy cream instead of milk.
- Herb Options: Feel free to experiment with different herbs for the pork chops. Fresh rosemary, thyme, or even sage can add a wonderful flavor to the garlic butter sauce.
Why This Dish Is Perfect:
Buttery Garlic Pork Chops with Smooth Mashed Potatoes is the epitome of comfort food. The pork chops are succulent, with a rich garlic butter sauce that elevates their flavor, while the mashed potatoes provide the perfect creamy base to balance the savory meat. It’s a classic combination that’s easy to make but tastes like a dish from a five-star restaurant.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting guests, or simply craving a comforting meal, this dish is sure to be a hit. It’s simple, flavorful, and satisfying—a true crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.
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