Sweet Harmony: Caramelized Brown Sugar Pork Chops Recipe

Succulent pork chops glazed with caramelized brown sugar deliver a mouthwatering twist to your dinner routine.

Sweet and savory flavors dance together in this irresistible recipe.

The rich, golden-brown coating promises a delectable experience that transforms an ordinary meal.

Tender meat meets a glossy, caramelized exterior that seals in every ounce of juiciness.

Each bite combines a perfect balance of deep, complex sweetness and hearty pork flavor.

Simple ingredients come together to create a restaurant-worthy dish you can easily prepare at home.

Prepare to delight your taste buds with this crowd-pleasing culinary masterpiece.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: 365 kcal

Servings: 4

What Goes Into Brown Sugar Pork Chops

• Brown Sugar: Adds caramelized sweetness and helps create a stunning golden-brown crust on the pork.
• Garlic Powder: Delivers a robust, aromatic flavor without the texture of fresh garlic.
• Smoked Paprika: Introduces a deep, smoky undertone that complements the pork's natural richness.
• Chili Powder: Provides a gentle heat and complex warmth (optional but recommended).
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor and helps tenderize the meat.
• Black Pepper: Adds a subtle, spicy kick and depth to the seasoning blend.

• Pork Chops: Choose center-cut, bone-in chops for maximum juiciness and flavor; look for meat with light marbling for tenderness.

• Paper Towels: Essential for removing excess moisture, ensuring the seasoning adheres perfectly and promotes better browning.

Must-Have Tools for Sweet Pork Chops

• Large Skillet: Ideal for searing and cooking pork chops evenly with nice browning.
• Paper Towels: Essential for drying pork chops to ensure crispy exterior.
• Small Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining brown sugar and spice mixture.
• Measuring Spoons: Necessary for accurate seasoning blend proportions.
• Tongs: Helpful for flipping and handling pork chops during cooking.
• Cutting Board: Provides clean surface for preparing and seasoning meat.

How to Cook Brown Sugar Pork Chops

• Prep the Meat

Pat each pork chop completely dry using clean paper towels to ensure a perfect seasoning coating.

• Create Flavor Blend

Mix brown sugar with garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until ingredients are thoroughly combined.

• Season Thoroughly

Massage the spice mixture generously over every surface of the pork chops, making sure each side is evenly covered with the delicious seasoning blend.

Tips to Keep Pork Chops Sweet and Juicy

• Let the pork chops sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even browning and a gorgeous caramelized exterior that seals in all the delicious flavors.
• Prepare the spice rub up to 24 hours in advance and store in an airtight container, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify before coating the pork chops.
• This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions. Double-check your spice blend ingredients to ensure complete gluten-free compliance.
• For those who prefer not to pan-fry, bake the seasoned pork chops in a preheated 400°F oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.
• Experiment with chicken breasts or turkey cutlets using the same brown sugar spice blend for a delightful variation that works equally well with different protein choices.

Serve Up Those Pork Chops with Confidence

• Rustic Dinner Plate Presentation: Arrange golden-brown pork chops on a wooden cutting board with sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme scattered around for a rustic, farmhouse-style serving.
• Hearty Side Companion: Pair these flavorful chops with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or glazed carrots to create a complete, satisfying meal.
• Fresh Garnish Finish: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions over the pork chops right before serving to add a bright pop of color and subtle fresh flavor that complements the sweet and spicy rub.
• Wine Pairing Suggestion: Complement the rich, sweet-spicy profile of these pork chops with a medium-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or a crisp, slightly sweet Riesling that balances the dish's robust flavors.

Pork Chop Storage Made Simple

• Store cooked pork chops in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them refrigerated for 3-4 days maximum. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain moisture and prevent flavor absorption from other foods.
• Warm refrigerated pork chops gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out. Heat at 50% power in 30-second intervals, checking temperature to ensure it reaches 145°F for food safety.
• Freeze uncooked seasoned pork chops flat in freezer-safe bags, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn. Cooked chops can be frozen for up to 3 months – label with date and contents for easy tracking.
• Prepare multiple pork chops at once, creating quick protein options for busy weeknights. Slice leftover chops for salads, sandwiches, or quick stir-fry additions, maximizing your cooking efficiency and reducing daily meal preparation time.

FAQs

• What makes the spice rub special?

The combination of brown sugar with savory spices like garlic powder and smoked paprika creates a perfect balance of sweet and smoky flavors that caramelize beautifully on the pork chops.

• Can I use a different type of sugar?

While brown sugar is recommended for its rich molasses flavor, you can substitute with white sugar or coconut sugar, though the depth of flavor will be slightly different.

• How do I know when the pork chops are perfectly cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Pork chops are done when they reach 145°F (63°C), which ensures they’re juicy and safe to eat without being overcooked.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes! You can prepare the spice rub in advance and season the pork chops up to 24 hours before cooking, making it convenient for busy weeknight dinners or advance meal planning.

Caramelized Brown Sugar Pork Chops

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4.8 from 20 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Succulent Brown Sugar Pork Chops promise a delightful culinary journey through sweet and savory flavors. Caramelized edges and tender meat will make you crave this simple yet elegant dish that brings comfort to any dinner table.

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Ingredients

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• 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1-inch thick)
• 3 tbsps brown sugar (packed)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp chili powder (optional, for a slight kick)
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsps unsalted butter
• ¼ cup chicken broth (optional, for extra sauce)

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Instructions

1. Prep Pork: Pat pork chops completely dry with paper towels to maximize seasoning absorption and promote ideal searing.
2. Spice Fusion: Thoroughly mix brown sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper into a cohesive, fragrant seasoning blend that will create a caramelized exterior.
3. Seasoning Application: Generously coat each pork chop with the spice mixture, ensuring complete coverage and pressing the blend firmly into the meat to develop a rich, complex flavor profile.
4. Marination Rest: Let seasoned chops sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, allowing the sugar and spices to penetrate deeply and create a perfect caramelized crust during cooking.
5. Heat Preparation: Preheat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat, adding a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking and facilitate even browning.
6. Searing Technique: Place pork chops in the hot skillet, cooking for 4-5 minutes per side until a deep golden-brown crust forms and internal temperature reaches 145°F, creating a succulent and flavorful main course.

Notes

• Pat Dry for Perfect Sear: Remove excess moisture from pork chops to achieve a golden-brown crust and prevent steaming during cooking.
• Balance Spice Blend: Adjust spice ratios to match personal heat preferences, ensuring a harmonious mix of sweet and savory flavors.
• Rest and Marinate: Let seasoned chops sit for 15-30 minutes to allow spices to penetrate meat and enhance overall taste complexity.
• Cooking Temperature Matters: Use medium-high heat to create a caramelized exterior while maintaining juicy, tender meat inside.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 500 mg
• Fat: 21 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 6 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg