These Brown Sugar Pork Chops are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, with a caramelized crust and juicy center. This quick and easy recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or a special weekend treat. Made with simple ingredients, these pork chops are flavorful, tender, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if using the oven to finish cooking.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel and rub the spice mixture generously on both sides of each chop.
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms.
- If using the oven, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 6-8 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). For stovetop-only cooking, lower the heat and cook for an additional 4-6 minutes, flipping once, until fully cooked.
- Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain their juices.
Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
Variations
- Swap the cayenne for chili powder for a milder kick.
- Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the brown sugar rub for extra tanginess.
- Serve with a glaze made from honey and balsamic vinegar for a glossy finish.
FAQs
Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time as boneless chops tend to cook faster.
What sides go well with this dish?
Pair these pork chops with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Brown Sugar Pork Chops
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing and Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Brown Sugar Pork Chops are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, with a caramelized crust and juicy center. This quick and easy recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or a special weekend treat. Made with simple ingredients, these pork chops are flavorful, tender, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if using the oven to finish cooking.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel and rub the spice mixture generously on both sides of each chop.
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms.
- If using the oven, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 6-8 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). For stovetop-only cooking, lower the heat and cook for an additional 4-6 minutes, flipping once, until fully cooked.
- Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain their juices.
Notes
- For the best results, use bone-in pork chops that are about 1 inch thick.
- Letting the pork chops rest after cooking helps retain their juices, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pork chop
- Calories: 487
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 130mg