There’s something magical about the combination of savory, juicy pork and a golden-brown glaze of sweet brown sugar, garlic, and spice. These easy brown sugar pork chops are:
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Made with simple pantry staples
- Great for both weeknight dinners and special comfort food cravings
- Easily customizable with your favorite flavors or sides
This recipe transforms basic boneless pork chops into something special without complicated steps or expensive ingredients. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home cook, you’ll be amazed at how much flavor you can build with just a few ingredients.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
These pork chops require very few ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry.
🥩 For the Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
🍯 For the Brown Sugar Glaze:
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- Optional: pinch of red chili flakes for heat
🌿 For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme or parsley (optional but adds color and freshness)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
This is a one-pan oven-to-table recipe, meaning fewer dishes and less cleanup.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure your skillet is oven-safe (cast iron or stainless steel works best).
Step 2: Season the Chops
Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with:
- Salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper
- Smoked paprika
- Minced garlic
Step 3: Sear the Pork
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for 2–3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
Step 4: Add Brown Sugar and Butter
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of brown sugar evenly over the pork chops.
- Dot the skillet with 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Let it melt slightly and coat the meat.
Step 5: Bake to Finish
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Don’t overcook!
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Spoon pan sauce over the top and garnish with herbs.
🔥 Tips for Pork Chop Perfection
- Choose the Right Cut
Boneless pork chops are convenient but dry out faster. Try bone-in for extra flavor—just bake 2–3 minutes longer. - Don’t Skip the Sear
Searing locks in moisture and creates a delicious golden crust. - Use a Meat Thermometer
For perfect doneness, aim for 145°F (63°C). Anything above 155°F risks dryness. - Let Them Rest
Always rest pork chops after cooking. This keeps them juicy and tender. - Customize the Glaze
Want tangy, spicy, or herby flavors? You’ve got options (see below!).
🌈 Flavor Variations & Add-Ons
This recipe is flexible! Here’s how you can take it to the next level:
| Variation | How to Add |
|---|---|
| Tangy | Add 1 tsp Dijon mustard or 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar to the glaze |
| Spicy | Mix in ¼ tsp red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce |
| Herbaceous | Sprinkle fresh rosemary or sage before baking |
| Citrusy | Add zest of ½ an orange or lemon to the brown sugar glaze |
| Smoky BBQ | Mix 1 tbsp of BBQ sauce with the brown sugar |
🥗 Suggested Sides for a Balanced Meal
Pair your pork chops with any of the following for a restaurant-quality dinner at home:
🍽️ Starches
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Buttery rice pilaf
- Creamy polenta
- Crusty bread to soak up the glaze
🥬 Veggies
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Sautéed green beans with garlic
- Glazed carrots
- Steamed broccoli with lemon
🥗 Light Salads
- Spinach salad with balsamic vinaigrette
- Arugula and parmesan salad
- Classic Caesar salad
🧊 How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
These pork chops store and reheat beautifully.
Storage:
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing:
- Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating:
- Oven: Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 10–12 minutes covered with foil.
- Microwave: Use medium power and reheat in short bursts to avoid drying out.
📊 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~290 kcal |
| Protein | 24g |
| Carbs | 8g |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sodium | ~420mg |
Note: Nutritional values are estimates based on 4 servings and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. Add glaze in the last 3 minutes.
Q: Can I use bone-in chops?
Absolutely. Just increase baking time to 12–15 minutes depending on thickness.
Q: What’s the best brown sugar to use?
Light brown sugar works best, but dark brown sugar will give a richer molasses flavor.
Q: Can I prep these ahead of time?
Yes! You can season the pork and even glaze it, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger skillet or two pans. Avoid overcrowding or searing won’t work properly.
📝 Final Thoughts
When it comes to comfort food that’s easy, quick, and incredibly satisfying, brown sugar pork chops check every box. Whether it’s a busy Tuesday night or a lazy Sunday dinner, this recipe is a reliable go-to. With endless ways to customize it and foolproof cooking steps, it’s a staple you’ll return to often.
Make it your own, serve it with love, and don’t forget to spoon every last drop of that sweet-savory glaze on top.
📌 Printable Recipe Card
Easy Brown Sugar Pork Chops – Sweet, Savory & Simple
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 mins | 20 mins | 25 mins | 4 servings |
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Optional: fresh thyme, chili flakes
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season chops with salt, pepper, garlic, paprika.
- Heat oil in skillet and sear both sides (2–3 mins).
- Sprinkle brown sugar, add butter, transfer to oven.
- Bake 8–10 mins (internal temp: 145°F).
- Rest, garnish, serve with pan glaze.
