Brown Sugar Baked Pork Chops

Brown Sugar Baked Pork Chops 🥩🍯

These Brown Sugar Baked Pork Chops are a simple yet flavorful oven-baked dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The rich, caramelized brown sugar glaze pairs beautifully with savory butter, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, creating a mouthwatering combination of sweet and savory flavors. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, this recipe is as easy as it is delicious.

Let’s dive into how to make these tender, juicy pork chops step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Sweet & Savory : The brown sugar glaze caramelizes beautifully, while the savory sauces add depth of flavor.
2. Juicy & Tender : Baking ensures the pork chops stay moist and flavorful.
3. Simple Ingredients : Pantry staples like brown sugar, butter, and soy sauce make this recipe accessible.
4. Hands-Off Cooking : Pop it in the oven and let it bake while you relax or prep sides.
5. Versatile : Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.

Ingredients

(Serves 4)

• 4 thick-cut pork chops (about 1 inch thick )
• 4 tablespoons brown sugar , packed
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
2. Lightly oil a baking dish or coat it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Pork Chops

1. Place the pork chops in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
2. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of brown sugar evenly over each pork chop, pressing gently to help it adhere.
3. Top each pork chop with 1 tablespoon of butter .

Step 3: Add the Sauce

1. Drizzle the soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce evenly over the pork chops. Use a spoon or brush to spread the sauces across the tops of the chops for even flavor distribution.

Step 4: Bake Covered

1. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes . This allows the pork chops to cook through and become tender.

Step 5: Uncover and Caramelize

1. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes , or until the pork chops are golden brown, the sauce has thickened slightly, and the brown sugar has caramelized.
   • Tip : For extra caramelization, broil the pork chops on high for 2–3 minutes at the end of cooking, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender, flavorful meat.
2. Spoon any pan sauce over the pork chops for added flavor.

Tips for Success

1. Use Thick-Cut Pork Chops : Thicker chops (1 inch or more) are less likely to dry out during baking.
2. Pat Dry Before Cooking : Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels before seasoning to help the brown sugar adhere better.
3. Internal Temperature : Pork is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) , followed by a 3-minute rest. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
4. Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days . Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
5. Freeze for Later : Freeze cooked pork chops in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Perfect Pairings

These Brown Sugar Baked Pork Chops pair beautifully with:

• Mashed Potatoes : Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the caramelized sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables : Serve with roasted carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy side.
• Rice or Quinoa : A bed of fluffy rice or quinoa complements the rich flavors of the pork.
• Green Salad : A crisp arugula or mixed greens salad balances the sweetness of the dish.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

(Based on 4 servings)

• Calories : ~350 kcal
• Protein : ~30g
• Carbohydrates : ~10g
• Fat : ~22g
• Fiber : ~0g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

These Brown Sugar Baked Pork Chops are a delicious, fuss-free dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors in every bite. Whether you’re serving them for dinner, impressing guests, or simply craving something comforting yet elegant, this recipe is sure to satisfy. The caramelized brown sugar glaze, buttery richness, and savory sauces create a dish that’s both simple and satisfying.

The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the seasonings, add herbs, or experiment with sides to make it your own. So grab your pork chops, sprinkle that brown sugar, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as easy to make as it is to love.