Indulge in these Garlic Butter Pork Bites—a tender, flavorful dish where succulent pork morsels are pan-seared to perfection and bathed in a rich garlic-butter sauce. Crisp on the outside and juicy within, this recipe is a delicious highlight for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare: ready in just 20–25 minutes.
Succulent pork bites with a luscious garlic butter finish.
Simple ingredients with restaurant-quality flavor.
Great for busy weeknights or served over pasta or rice for weekend feasts.
Versatile—add herbs, spices, or a splash of wine to elevate it.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

pork tenderloin or pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
salt
freshly ground black pepper
garlic powder (optional)
olive oil or vegetable oil
unsalted butter
fresh garlic, minced
fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (optional for garnish)
lemon juice (optional splash for freshness)

directions

Prepare and season: Pat pork pieces dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, and a light sprinkling of garlic powder if desired.
Heat the skillet: Warm oil in a heavy skillet (cast-iron preferred) over medium-high heat.
Sear pork: Add pork pieces in a single layer, ensuring space between bites. Sear until golden brown (approximately 2–3 minutes per side), turning once. Work in batches to prevent crowding.
Add butter and garlic: Lower heat to medium. Add butter to the pan. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
Coat pork in sauce: Return any reserved pork bites to the pan. Stir and toss to coat them fully in the garlic butter sauce. If using, squeeze in a little lemon juice for a fresh burst of flavor.
Finish and garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley or thyme. Serve hot alongside pasta, rice, steamed vegetables, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Servings and timing

Yield: Serves 4 as a main course
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: 20–25 minutes

Variations

Herb‑butter butter: Mix softened butter with chopped rosemary, thyme, or sage, then melt for an aromatic finish.
Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the sauce.
Creamy twist: After garlic cooks, stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream or sour cream for a richer, creamy sauce.
Mushroom medley: Add sliced mushrooms to the pan after searing pork; sauté until golden before melting in butter and garlic.
Citrus infusion: Add zest of lemon or orange along with juice to brighten the flavor.

storage/reheating

Refrigeration: Store cooled pork bites in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container or zip-top bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat or warm in the microwave until heated through. Add a small splash of water or butter to revive the sauce.

FAQs

What cut of pork is best for this recipe?

Pork tenderloin or pork shoulder both work well—tenderloin is leaner and cooks faster, while shoulder offers richer flavor.

Can I use chicken instead of pork?

Yes. Adjust cooking time—chicken breasts or thighs cook more quickly and may need slightly less heat.

How do I prevent pork from becoming dry?

Avoid overcooking. Pork is best at an internal temperature of 145 °F, about 2–3 minutes per side depending on size.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes—cook pork bites, cool completely, and store in the fridge. Reheat briefly in butter and garlic before serving.

Is garlic powder necessary if using fresh garlic?

No, it’s optional. Fresh garlic offers a more vibrant flavor; garlic powder adds an extra boost.

Why use a heavy-bottomed skillet?

A heavy pan like cast iron provides even heat and excellent browning for a flavorful crust.

Can this be made dairy-free?

Yes—substitute butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Cook a little longer after adding butter and garlic, or stir in a small spoon of cornstarch slurry (butter plus water and slurry may dilute flavor).

Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely. Use quick-cooking veggies such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. Sauté them after searing pork, then add the garlic butter sauce.

What’s the best garnish?

Fresh parsley adds brightness. For a richer profile, garnish with chopped chives or flat-leaf parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Conclusion

These Garlic Butter Pork Bites are a stunning blend of simplicity and elegance—juicy pork seared to perfection, enriched with a buttery garlic sauce. Effortless and versatile, they shine as a quick weeknight supper or a satisfying weekend treat. Serve them with pasta, rice, or roasted veggies and let the rich flavor do the talking.