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Craving that perfect sweet-savory bite that melts in your mouth? Let me introduce you to my go-to Pork Chop Recipes star: Brown Sugar Baked Pork Chops 🙂 FYI, this dish turns everyday pork into a cozy family favorite. You’ll wonder why you ever bothered with complicated marinades or endless Crock Pot timers.
I still remember the first time I tossed brown sugar, paprika, and a hint of garlic powder on a pork chop—total game-changer. I had just tried a fancy Pork Chops In The Oven recipe the week before, and honestly, it felt like overkill. This quick bake proves you can get restaurant-worthy flavor without sweating over multiple pots.
Ever thought about using the Crock Pot? Sure, I love Pork Chops In The Crock Pot when I’m pressed for time, but nothing beats that caramelized crust you get from baking. Plus, you can totally pivot into other Pork Recipes For Dinner—think Pork Loin Recipes or Pork Shoulder Recipes—once you master this simple technique.
In this friendly guide, I’ll walk you through every step, share my top tips, and even toss in a couple of playful twists. Ready to elevate your Pork Chop Recipes? Let’s get baking!
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1″ thick)
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh, chopped)
- ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking dish and set it aside.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step ensures you get that crispy, caramelized crust.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Brush each chop with olive oil and melted butter. Then press the brown sugar mixture onto both sides. Yes, press—it sticks better that way!
- Place the chops in the baking dish. Pour chicken broth around them (not on top), so they stay juicy.
- Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 145°F. No instant-read thermometer? No problem—just cut slightly into the thickest part and look for a faint blush of pink.
- Remove the chops from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. This locks in all that mouthwatering juice.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides. Ready to dig in? You bet!
Variations
Mix things up with these easy upgrades:
- Spicy Brown Sugar Glaze: Add ½ tsp cayenne or chili powder to the sugar mix for a kick. Great for those who love Porkchops Dinner Ideas with a fiery twist.
- Maple-Mustard Twist: Swap half the brown sugar for pure maple syrup and slather on a tablespoon of whole-grain mustard before baking.
- Apple Cinnamon Crunch: Top chops with thin apple slices and a sprinkle of cinnamon right before baking. This riff plays on classic Pork Loin Recipes.
Serving & Tips
Pairing Ideas: I like to serve these chops alongside roasted Brussels sprouts, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad. Looking for more Pork Chop Dinner Ideas? Try a side of garlic-buttered green beans.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a 325°F oven for 10 minutes or in the microwave at 50% power to keep them juicy.
Seasonal Touch: In fall or winter, I toss in some fresh sage to the brown sugar mix. It gives off those cozy, hearth-and-home vibes. Ever tried that? Trust me, it’s worth it.
FYI, if you’re curious about other methods, I sometimes adapt this for Pork Chops In The Crock Pot—just layer chops, sprinkle sugar mix, add broth, and cook on low for 4 hours. Or check out my Rotisserie Chicken Recipes for nights when you want something even faster!
Final Thoughts
Brown Sugar Baked Pork Chops deliver that sweet-savory harmony you didn’t know you needed. I guarantee your family will ask for seconds (and you’ll happily oblige!). Next time you crave a fuss-free, utterly delicious meal, this recipe has your back.
Ready to impress without breaking a sweat? Give it a whirl—you’ll wonder why you ever settled for bland dinners 🙂
FAQs
Q1: How do I know when the pork chops are safely cooked?
Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part. Look for 145°F. If you don’t have one, cut into a chop—just a sliver—to check for slight pinkness.
Q2: Can I use boneless pork chops instead?
Absolutely! Boneless chops work great. Just reduce the bake time by 2–3 minutes since they cook faster.
Q3: Is it possible to make this in the Crock Pot?
Yes! Follow the same seasoning steps, layer chops in the pot, add ¼ cup broth, and cook on low for 3–4 hours. You’ll get tender, pull-apart pork that’s perfect for Pork Recipes For Dinner.
Q4: Can I cut down on sugar for a lighter version?
Sure thing. Swap half the brown sugar for a sugar substitute like coconut sugar or omit it entirely and add a splash of apple cider vinegar for tang. You’ll still get a delicious glaze.
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