Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a flavorful, yet simple meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Then look no further! This brown sugar pork chop recipe is your answer. It's a delicious dish perfect for busy weeknights, impressing guests, or simply enjoying a comforting homemade meal. This recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory, creating a truly unforgettable taste experience. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, for extra sauce)
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures perfectly cooked pork chops with a beautiful caramelized crust.
Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. This simple marinade is the key to the incredible flavor of this dish.
Marinate the pork chops: Place the pork chops in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes, or longer for even more intense flavor. If you’re short on time, even a quick 5-minute marinade will make a difference.
Sear and bake: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated pork chops and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step helps develop a beautiful crust and seals in the juices.
Bake to perfection: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked through.
Make a delicious sauce (optional): If you desire a richer sauce, whisk in the chicken broth to the skillet after baking and let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Serve and enjoy: Remove the pork chops from the oven, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop.
Cooking Tips for the Best Brown Sugar Pork Chops:
- Choose the right pork chops: Bone-in pork chops are recommended for this recipe as they retain moisture better during cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Sear the pork chops in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure your pork chops are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Brown Sugar Pork Chops: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Apple Cider Brown Sugar Pork Chops: Substitute apple cider for the chicken broth for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Honey Garlic Brown Sugar Pork Chops: Replace the Dijon mustard with honey for a sweeter and more intense flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 30-35g Fat: Approximately 15-20g Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This easy and delicious brown sugar pork chop recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The sweet and savory combination is irresistible, and the simple cooking method makes it perfect for busy weeknights. Give it a try and let us know what you think!