Baked Brown Sugar Pork Chops

Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game with a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Baked Brown Sugar Pork Chops are the epitome of comfort food, combining succulent pork chops with a sweet and savory glaze that will have your taste buds singing. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want a hearty meal without the fuss.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven.
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. Season the pork chops:
   • Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels, and season them generously with salt and black pepper on both sides.
3. Prepare the brown sugar glaze:
   • In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until the ingredients are well mixed and form a thick paste.
4. Coat the pork chops:
   • Place the seasoned pork chops on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each chop.
   • Spread the brown sugar glaze evenly over the top of each pork chop, using a spoon or your fingers to coat them thoroughly.
5. Bake the pork chops.
   • Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the glaze is caramelized and bubbling.
6. Serve and enjoy:
   • Remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
   • Serve hot with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

• Thicker Pork Chops: If using thicker pork chops, you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare to medium doneness.
• Boneless Pork Chops: You can also use boneless pork chops for this recipe. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as boneless chops may cook faster than bone-in chops.
• Glaze Variations: Feel free to customize the brown sugar glaze to suit your taste preferences. Add a splash of soy sauce for umami richness or a dash of apple cider vinegar for tanginess.
• Grilled Option: You can also grill the pork chops instead of baking them for a smoky flavor. Simply brush the glaze onto the chops and grill over medium-high heat until cooked through, flipping once halfway through cooking.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in? A: Yes, boneless pork chops can be used in this recipe. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as boneless chops may cook faster than bone-in chops.

Q: Can I prepare the glaze in advance? A: Absolutely! You can prepare the brown sugar glaze ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use. Just give it a stir before applying it to the pork chops.

Q: How can I ensure the pork chops are cooked through? A: The best way to ensure the pork chops are cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the pork chop, and it should register 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare to medium doneness.

Q: Can I make this recipe keto-friendly? While this recipe is not inherently keto-friendly due to the brown sugar, you can make a keto-friendly version by substituting the brown sugar with a keto-approved sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

• Substitute the brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
• Ensure all other ingredients are keto-friendly and low in carbs.

Low-Carb Version:

• Follow the keto version instructions, but incorporate additional low-carb spices and seasonings such as smoked paprika or chili powder.
• You can also reduce the amount of sweetener used or omit it altogether for a less sweet glaze.

In conclusion, Baked Brown Sugar Pork Chops are a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With their irresistible combination of sweet and savory flavors, these pork chops are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just whipping up a quick meal for yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a mouth-watering meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.