Brown Sugar Pork Chops
These juicy, tender brown sugar pork chops strike the perfect balance between sweet and savory, creating a caramelized glaze that’s simply irresistible. Ready in under 30 minutes, this easy recipe transforms ordinary pork chops into a restaurant-quality meal your family will request again and again.
✔ Ingredients :
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
✔ Directions :
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Rub the seasoning mixture generously on both sides of each pork chop, pressing firmly to adhere.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the pork chops to the hot skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side without moving them to develop a caramelized crust.
- Flip the pork chops and add the butter to the pan, allowing it to melt around the chops.
- Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, occasionally spooning the melted butter over the pork chops, until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Remove from heat and let the pork chops rest for 3 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve with the pan sauce drizzled over the top.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 22 minutes | Calories: Approximately 385 kcal per serving
✔ Frequently Asked Questions :
1. How do I know when my pork chops are done?
Pork chops are safely cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F. Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable way to check. The meat should have just a hint of pink in the center.
2. Can I use boneless pork chops instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops work well too! Just reduce the cooking time by 1-2 minutes per side, as boneless chops typically cook faster than bone-in.
3. Can I make this recipe with less sugar?
Absolutely! You can reduce the brown sugar to 2 tablespoons if you prefer a less sweet flavor profile. You could also substitute honey or maple syrup for a different type of sweetness.
4. What sides pair well with these brown sugar pork chops?
These pork chops pair beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a simple side salad. The sweet and savory flavors also complement apple-based sides like applesauce or sautéed apples.
5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
For best results, these pork chops should be served fresh. However, you can prepare the seasoning mixture up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container.
✔ Tools You’ll Need :
- Large skillet (preferably cast iron)
- Meat thermometer
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Small mixing bowl
- Tongs for flipping
- Paper towels
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
✔ Tips for Success :
- Allow your pork chops to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t move the pork chops while they’re searing to develop a beautiful caramelized crust.
- If your pan sauce begins to burn, add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pan.
- For extra flavor, add thinly sliced apples or onions to the pan during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Rest your pork chops before serving to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Choose pork chops of equal thickness so they cook at the same rate.
✔ Allergy Information :
- Contains: Dairy (butter)
- May contain traces of gluten depending on the Italian seasoning blend used
- Free from: Eggs, nuts, soy, shellfish, fish
