Easy 30-Minute Brown Sugar Pork Chops

These easy 30-minute brown sugar pork chops are the perfect weeknight dinner solution. With their caramelized, flavorful crust and tender interior, this recipe strikes the ideal balance between sweet and savory. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting guests, these pork chops deliver big on taste with minimal effort.

What Are Brown Sugar Pork Chops?

Brown sugar pork chops are a quick and flavorful dish that combines the natural richness of pork with a sweet and smoky brown sugar spice rub. The result is a beautifully caramelized coating that enhances the savory meat. Using just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Minimal Ingredients: Uses simple pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
• Versatile: Works with bone-in or boneless pork chops.
• Delicious Flavor: The brown sugar and spice blend creates a mouthwatering caramelized crust.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (1-inch thick)
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Pork Chops

1. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Rub the spice mixture evenly onto both sides of the pork chops.

Cooking the Pork Chops

1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Place the pork chops in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until caramelized and browned.

Finishing and Resting

1. Lower the heat slightly and continue cooking the pork chops for another 4-6 minutes, flipping once, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
2. Remove the skillet from heat and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these pork chops with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Roasted vegetables like carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts
• A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to maintain moisture.

Freezing Instructions

• Wrap cooked pork chops individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the spice rub for extra heat.
• Herby Flavor: Mix in dried thyme or rosemary for a more savory profile.
• Maple Glaze: Swap out brown sugar for maple syrup for a deeper, richer sweetness.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in pork chops?

Yes, bone-in pork chops work great and tend to be juicier. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as they may take a bit longer to cook through.

How do I know when the pork chops are done?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Can I grill these pork chops instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely! Grill over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side, then reduce the heat and cook until they reach the desired temperature.

These easy brown sugar pork chops are a game-changer for your dinner rotation. With a sweet, smoky crust and juicy interior, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Try them today and let us know how you enjoyed this delicious recipe!

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