Hi, I am Lilly Mathuse and these garlic butter pork bites are one of those dinners that somehow feels special without much fuss.
Think tender cubes of pork seared until golden, then tossed in a garlicky, buttery sauce that clings to every bite. If you fancy creamy garlic pork chops, this is a smaller, quicker version that still gives you that saucy, comforting result.
It is an easy weeknight dinner when you need something fast and honest. I first made it on a night when Ellie would not stop asking for snacks and Muffin would not stop circling my feet. The house smelled so good everyone stopped sulking. Actually, scratch that. The kitchen smelled so good even I stopped sulking.
Evenly season the pork with 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper.
In a 12-inch skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the pork and sear on all sides for 3-5 minutes until cooked through, for 13 to 15 minutes total. Pork is done when its internal temperature reaches 145 °F.
Transfer the pork from the skillet to a plate and tent it loosely with aluminum foil to keep it warm.
In the same skillet over medium heat, add ¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter and let it melt. Add 1 teaspoon minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Whisk in 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour until slightly thickened, for about 1 minute.
Stir in ½ cup chicken broth, ½ cup heavy cream, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and salt and black pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens, for 5 to 8 minutes.
Return the pork bites to the pan and toss them in the sauce to coat well.
Serve immediately.
You do not need fancy stuff, just helpful basics. A skillet that is about twelve inches across, the heavy bottom kind if you have one, works best for a good sear. A sharp knife and a cutting board to cut the chops into cubes about one inch wide. Tongs for turning the pork without poking holes. A plate and some foil to rest the meat. A whisk or wooden spoon to stir the sauce and a thermometer if you like being precise and want to cook to 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
Measuring spoons help with the onion powder, salt and pepper. A grater if your Parmesan is not pre grated. Timer optional but useful when you are juggling cartoons and dinner.
Season the pork pieces well with onion powder, salt and pepper before you sear. I do it right on the pieces so every bite has flavor. Heat the oil until it shimmers and then sear on medium for a few minutes per side until you get a lovely golden brown outside. Do not overcrowd the pan or they will steam instead of sear. You want each piece to have a little crust because that keeps the meat juicy.
For the sauce, melt the butter slowly and cook the garlic briefly so it smells amazing but does not burn. Whisk in a tablespoon of flour to thicken, then add chicken broth, cream, Parmesan and two tablespoons lemon juice. Simmer until it coats the back of a spoon. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. If you need a keto pork recipe, skip the flour and use a little xanthan gum or almond flour to thicken instead.
Rest the pork under foil for a few minutes before returning it to the sauce. Resting helps the juices redistribute so you do not end up with dry bits. Also, taste as you go. I once forgot and the sauce was a bit flat, but a squeeze of lemon and another pinch of salt fixed it.
Herb brightener: Stir chopped parsley or thyme into the sauce at the end. It is like adding sprinkles to a cupcake, it just makes everything a bit more fun. Do not add too much or it will overwhelm the garlic.
Spicy kick: Add a pinch or two of red pepper flakes to the seasoning before searing if you want heat. Simmer them in the sauce so the spice spreads evenly.
Cheesy version: Stir extra Parmesan or a handful of shredded mozzarella into the sauce for gooey strings that basically wrap each piece of pork in a cheesy hug. Comfort food alert. This also works if you are adapting a pork tenderloin recipe and want it richer.
I call this a one skillet pork recipe because cleanup is minimal and everything stays in one pan. Perfect for nights when you can only spare ten minutes for dishes.
Serve these over steamed rice to soak up the sauce, or over mashed potatoes for maximum comfort. Vegetables like green beans or broccoli add color and a nice snap. A simple salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the butter and lightens the plate.
For low carb meals try cauliflower rice. Crusty bread is great for mopping up sauce if you are not counting carbs. Garnish with parsley and a lemon wedge. If you are thinking about what to serve with pork, these options cover quick weeknight plates and small dinner party spreads alike.
Why do my pork bites dry out? Cook to 145 degrees Fahrenheit and then rest under foil. Sear quickly on medium and avoid overcooking. If you use pork tenderloin recipe cuts, watch them closely because they cook faster.
Can I make this keto friendly? Yes. As I mentioned earlier, for a keto pork recipe skip the flour or swap in almond flour or xanthan gum as a thickener. Check your broth label for hidden carbs.
Can I use whole chops instead? Yes. Treat them like creamy garlic pork chops and sear five minutes per side depending on thickness. Then make the sauce in the same pan and either simmer the chops in it or pour the sauce over.
How do I store leftovers? Cool quickly and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth so the sauce loosens up. You can freeze portions for up to a month, thawing overnight before reheating.
Where can I find tips on how to make pork bites the best they can be? Try starting with well seasoned pieces, a hot pan and not overcrowding. If you search how to make pork bites you will see lots of advice, but this simple routine is what works in my kitchen every time.
If you're looking for a delicious and cozy weeknight dish, these Garlic Butter Pork Bites fit the bill! Tender pieces of pork smothered in a creamy, garlic-infused sauce will have everyone asking for seconds. Did you make this recipe? Snap a photo and tag us on Instagram @cookmerecipes or share it on Pinterest!
Great recipe!
