Brown Sugar Pork Chops

These Brown Sugar Pork Chops are tender, juicy, and coated in a delicious sweet-and-savory glaze. Brown sugar caramelizes beautifully with butter, garlic, and simple seasonings, creating a flavorful dinner that’s quick enough for a busy weeknight.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless or bone-in pork chops
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, optional
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, optional

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the pork chops in a single layer.

2. Season the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels.

Season both sides with paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and thyme.

3. Make the Brown Sugar Glaze

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, melted butter, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard if using.

For a slightly tangy glaze, stir in the apple cider vinegar.

Mix until smooth and well combined.

4. Sear the Pork Chops

Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.

Sear the pork chops for about 2–3 minutes per side, until lightly browned.

5. Add the Glaze

Remove the skillet from the heat.

Spread the brown sugar mixture generously over the top of each pork chop.

If using a baking dish instead, transfer the seared chops to the dish and spoon the glaze over them.

6. Bake

Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 12–20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chops.

Cook until the center reaches 145°F (63°C), then remove from the oven.

7. Rest and Serve

Let the pork chops rest for 3–5 minutes before serving.

Spoon any melted brown sugar glaze and pan juices over the chops.

Serve warm with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or rice.

Recipe Tips

• Use pork chops of similar thickness so they cook evenly.
• Don’t overcook the pork; use a meat thermometer to check for 145°F (63°C).
• Bone-in chops can provide extra flavor and moisture.
• Watch the glaze carefully during the final minutes because brown sugar can caramelize quickly.
• Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a sweet-and-spicy version.
• For extra flavor, add a splash of apple juice to the pan before baking.

Prep & Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Servings: 4

Meta Description

Make juicy Brown Sugar Pork Chops coated in a sweet and savory glaze with brown sugar, butter, garlic, and warm spices. An easy and flavorful weeknight dinner.