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Brown Sugar Baked Pork Chops

Brown Sugar Baked Pork Chops

A comforting dish featuring juicy pork chops coated in a sticky, caramelized brown sugar glaze. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with tender meat and a golden crust, makes this an easy yet impressive meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Comfort Food, Main Dishes
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Baking dish Large enough to fit pork chops in a single layer.
  • 1 Meat Thermometer To ensure pork reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F.
  • 1 Mixing Bowl For preparing the glaze.
  • Optional Cornstarch slurry To thicken the glaze if needed.

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pieces Thick-cut pork chops (bone-in) At least 1-inch thick for juiciness. Boneless can be substituted but may dry out faster.
  • ½ cup Dark brown sugar Provides sweetness and caramelization.
  • ¼ cup Unsalted butter Adds richness to the glaze.
  • 2 tbsp Soy sauce Balances sweetness with savory umami.
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce Adds tangy depth to the glaze.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Enhances savory notes.
  • 1 tbsp Ketchup Adds slight acidity and helps with caramelization.

Optional Additions

  • 1 tsp Smoked paprika for color and smoky flavor. Optional
  • 1 pinch Cayenne pepper for heat. Optional
  • 1 tbsp Fresh thyme or rosemary for earthy freshness. Optional

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Recipe

    Prepare the Glaze:

    • In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, melted butter, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and ketchup. Stir until smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.

    Season and Prepare the Pork Chops:

    • Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Place them in a baking dish.
    • Pour the glaze evenly over the pork chops, ensuring each chop is fully coated.

    Bake the Pork Chops:

    • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish tightly with foil.
    • Bake the pork chops for 40 minutes, then remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes, or until the glaze caramelizes and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

    Thicken the Glaze (Optional):

    • If the glaze is too thin after baking, transfer it to a small saucepan. Mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water to create a slurry. Stir into the glaze and simmer until thickened.

    Rest and Serve:

    • Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute. Drizzle the thickened glaze over the chops and serve with your choice of sides.

    Notes

      • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain moisture.
      • Substitutions: Honey can replace brown sugar, but monitor closely as it browns faster. Use balsamic vinegar or steak sauce instead of Worcestershire sauce if needed.
      • Boneless Option: Boneless pork chops can be used but require shorter cooking time (2–3 minutes less per side).
     
     

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. What ingredients are needed for brown sugar baked pork chops?
      • Thick-cut pork chops, dark brown sugar, unsalted butter, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and ketchup.
       
    2. How long should pork chops be baked in the oven for a sticky sweet glaze?
      • Bake covered at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes, then uncovered for 20 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
       
    3. Can the brown sugar glaze be made with substitute sweeteners?
      • Yes, honey can be used, but watch closely as it browns faster.
       
    4. What are the best side dishes to serve with sticky sweet pork chops?
      • Creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy white rice, steamed green beans, or roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts.
       
    5. Are there any specific types of pork chops that work best for this recipe?
      • Thick-cut pork chops (at least 1 inch thick), preferably bone-in for added juiciness and flavor.
       
    6. How can I ensure the pork chops stay moist and tender while baking?
      • Cover the pan with foil during the first part of baking to trap moisture. Rest the pork chops for 5 minutes after baking to redistribute juices.
     
     

    Tips & Tricks

    • Flavor Enhancement: Add smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne for extra depth and spice. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary bring brightness.
    • Presentation: Spoon extra glaze around the pork chops on the plate and garnish with fresh herbs for a polished look.
    • Leftovers: Use leftover pork chops in sandwiches or wraps with a drizzle of glaze for added flavor.
     
     

    Plating and Garnishing

    • Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley, thyme, or thinly sliced green onions over the pork chops for freshness and color.
    • Serving Style: Arrange pork chops on large plates with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light salad for balance.
    • Sides: Include creamy sides like mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to soak up the glaze, and pair with crisp vegetables like green beans or roasted carrots.
     
    Keyword Brown Sugar Pork Chops, Easy Pork Chop Recipe, Sticky Sweet Pork Chops