Pan Seared Elk Rib Chops with Garlic and Herb Butter

Directions

1. Start by warming up your pan over medium heat and preheating your oven to 400 degrees. You're going to want a good sear on your chops but elk is lean so you'll want to be careful not to overcook. While your pan is heating, pat dry all sides of the elk chops. Once you've patted them dry, season the elk chops with the coarse sea salt and beef seasoning. Make sure you check the amount of salt included in the beef seasoning and adjust accordingly so you don't over-salt your chops. 

   

2. Once you've seasoned your chops and your pan is heated, add them to the pan and sear for two-three minutes per side. When you flip your chops, add a small slice of butter to the pan. After searing the second side for two minutes, add more butter, the garlic cloves, and your thyme and rosemary sprigs to the pan. As the cjops continue to sear, spoon the butter over the top of the elk chops.

   

3. Once your desired sear is reached, put the them in the preheated oven for 4-5 minutes (depending on how done you want them). We went 4 minutes for medium. 

4. Pull them from the oven and allow them to rest a few more minutes in the pan while you're dishing up your sides (white cheddar mac and cheese or a baked potato are great options)

5. Serve and enjoy!