Brown Sugar Glazed Pork Chops Recipe

Who says a delicious dinner has to be complicated? These brown sugar glazed pork chops are sweet, savory, and absolutely mouthwatering. The slightly smoky flavor from the paprika perfectly complements the sweetness of the brown sugar, creating a glaze that is out of this world. Using just a few simple ingredients and a hot skillet, you'll have a dinner that will impress any guest.

Photos of Brown Sugar Glazed Pork Chops Recipe

Most of the ingredients in this recipe are likely to be found in a standard kitchen. However, if you don't usually cook with paprika, it's a spice you might need to pick up at the supermarket. Paprika is made from ground sweet red pepper pods and provides a slightly sweet, smoky flavor.

Ingredients for Brown Sugar Glazed Pork Chops

Pork chops: The main ingredient. Look for chops that are about 1-inch thick.

Light brown sugar: Adds a rich sweetness and helps to form the glaze.

Garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavors in the pork.

Paprika: Provides a slightly smoky flavor.

Salt: Brings out the flavors of the other ingredients.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat.

Olive oil: Used for cooking the pork chops in the skillet.

One reader, Aubrette Wilt says:

This brown sugar glazed pork chops recipe is a game-changer! The combination of sweet and savory flavors is simply divine. The pork chops turn out tender and juicy, with a delightful caramelized glaze. It's a quick and easy dish that never fails to impress. Highly recommended!

Aubrette Wilt

Key Techniques for Perfectly Glazed Pork Chops

How to prepare the brown sugar glaze: In a small bowl, combine the light brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well mixed.

How to season the pork chops: Rub the brown sugar and spice mixture on both sides of each pork chop, ensuring that all the spice mix is used.

How to cook the pork chops: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, cook the pork chops for about 5 minutes on each side until they are browned and cooked through. Enjoy your delicious brown sugar glazed pork chops!

How To Make Brown Sugar Glazed Pork Chops

A glaze made of brown sugar, garlic powder, and paprika gives these pork chops a deliciously sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavor.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4pork chops,boneless
¼cuplight brown sugar
½tspgarlic powder
½tsppaprika
½tspsalt
½tspblack pepper
2tbspolive oil

Instructions

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper.
Rub the sugar-spice mix on both sides of each pork chop, using all of the spice mix.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium/high heat.
After the oil is hot, cook the pork chops for about 5 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.
Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 435.41kcal
Fat: 24.77g
Saturated Fat: 6.90g
Trans Fat: 0.18g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.99g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.11g
Carbohydrates: 9.56g
Fiber: 0.23g
Sugar: 8.83g
Protein: 41.37g
Cholesterol: 137.31mg
Sodium: 403.31mg
Calcium: 48.15mg
Potassium: 710.75mg
Iron: 1.48mg
Vitamin A: 11.16µg
Vitamin C: 0.01mg

How To Make Brown Sugar Glazed Pork Chops

A glaze made of brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper gives these pork chops a deliciously sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavor.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4pork chops,boneless
¼cuplight brown sugar
½tspgarlic powder
½tsppaprika
½tspsalt
½tspblack pepper
2tbspolive oil

Instructions

In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper.
Rub sugar/spice mix on both sides of each pork chop, using all of the spice mix.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium/high heat.
After the oil is hot, cook the pork chops for about 5 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 435.41kcal
Fat: 24.77g
Saturated Fat: 6.90g
Trans Fat: 0.18g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.99g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.11g
Carbohydrates: 9.56g
Fiber: 0.23g
Sugar: 8.83g
Protein: 41.37g
Cholesterol: 137.31mg
Sodium: 403.31mg
Calcium: 48.15mg
Potassium: 710.75mg
Iron: 1.48mg
Vitamin A: 11.16µg
Vitamin C: 0.01mg

Expert Advice for Achieving the Perfect Glaze

To ensure your pork chops are juicy and tender, avoid overcooking them. Pork can easily become tough if cooked too long. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. After they've reached this temperature, let them rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. This will result in a more flavorful and moist pork chop.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Delicious Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the spice mix and rub it on the pork chops the night before. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat, saving you time on the day of cooking.

Even thickness: Pound the pork chops to an even thickness before cooking. This will ensure that they cook evenly and prevent some parts from drying out while others are still undercooked.

High heat: Use a hot skillet to quickly sear the pork chops, locking in the juices and flavor, and reducing the overall cooking time.

Resting time: Allow the pork chops to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This will help redistribute the juices, resulting in juicier and more flavorful meat.

Substitute Ingredients For Brown Sugar Glazed Pork Chops Recipe

light brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar caramel-like flavor and can be used as a 1:1 replacement for brown sugar in glazes.
pork chops - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs can be used as a substitute for pork chops in this recipe, offering a similar texture and absorbing flavors well during cooking.

Plating Ideas for a Delectable Presentation

Elevate the pork chops: Carefully arrange the cooked pork chops on a clean, white plate, ensuring they are positioned neatly and attractively.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the pork chops with finely chopped parsley or chives to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Drizzle with glaze: Using a spoon, delicately drizzle any remaining glaze from the skillet over the pork chops, creating an enticing sheen on the meat.
Add a touch of elegance with a side dish: Serve the pork chops alongside a sophisticated side dish, such as roasted vegetables or wild rice pilaf, to complement the flavors and elevate the overall presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Glazed Pork Chops

Skillet: A skillet is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It typically has low sides and a long handle, making it perfect for cooking pork chops.
Small bowl: A small bowl is used for mixing and combining ingredients, such as the brown sugar and spices for the glaze.
Tongs: Tongs are essential for flipping and handling the pork chops while they are cooking in the skillet.
Meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is used to ensure that the pork chops are cooked to the proper internal temperature, ensuring they are safe to eat.
Cooking spatula: A cooking spatula is used for flipping the pork chops and transferring them to a serving plate.
Stove: The stove is used to heat the skillet and cook the pork chops to perfection.
Cutting board: A cutting board is used for preparing and seasoning the pork chops before cooking.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Leftover Pork Chops

Let the pork chops cool completely to room temperature before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and affecting the texture of the meat.
To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled pork chops in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the pork chops. Wrap each chop individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Then, place the wrapped chops in a freezer-safe bag or container, label with the date, and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen pork chops, first thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quicker option. Be sure not to overcook the chops, as they may become dry.
If you have any leftover brown sugar glaze, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can use it to baste the pork chops while reheating, or as a delicious addition to other dishes like roasted vegetables or grilled chicken.

How To Reheat Leftover Brown Sugar Glazed Pork Chops

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pork chops on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Cover the chops loosely with another piece of foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method is best for maintaining the original texture and flavor of the brown sugar glaze.
For a quicker option, microwave the pork chops on a microwave-safe plate. Cover the chops with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chops and the power of your microwave. Check the temperature and continue heating in 30-second intervals until the chops are heated through. Keep in mind that microwaving may cause the glaze to melt and the chops to become slightly soggy.
If you want to add a little extra flavor and crispiness to your leftover pork chops, try reheating them in a skillet. Add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter to the pan and heat it over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, add the pork chops and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and the glaze has caramelized slightly. This method will give your chops a nice crust and refresh the brown sugar flavor.
For a more adventurous approach, slice the leftover pork chops into strips and use them as a topping for a salad or stir-fry. The brown sugar glaze will add a delightful sweetness to your dish, and the pork will be heated through during the cooking process. This is a great way to repurpose your leftovers and create an entirely new meal.

Interesting Trivia About Brown Sugar Glazed Pork Chops

Brown sugar glazed pork chops are a delicious and easy meal to prepare. They are a great source of protein and can be a tasty addition to your dinner menu.

Budget-Friendly: Making Glazed Pork Chops at Home

This brown sugar glazed pork chops recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as pork chops and brown sugar, are generally affordable and readily available. The addition of simple spices like garlic powder and paprika enhances the flavor without significantly increasing the cost. Considering the affordability and the delightful taste, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly option for a satisfying meal.

Are Brown Sugar Glazed Pork Chops Healthy?

The brown sugar glazed pork chops recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe calls for a significant amount of brown sugar, which is high in calories and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in excess.
Pork chops are relatively high in saturated fat, which can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
The recipe does not include any vegetables or other nutrient-dense ingredients, making it an unbalanced meal.

However, there are some positive aspects to the recipe:

Pork is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
The recipe uses olive oil, which is a healthier cooking oil compared to butter or other saturated fats.
The spice mix includes garlic powder and paprika, which offer some health benefits such as anti-inflammatory properties and potential cancer-fighting compounds.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of brown sugar used in the glaze, or substitute it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Choose leaner cuts of pork, such as pork loin or tenderloin, to reduce the amount of saturated fat.
Serve the pork chops with a side of roasted or steamed vegetables to add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the meal.
Use a lower-sodium salt or reduce the amount of salt used in the spice mix to decrease the overall sodium content of the dish.
Experiment with additional spices and herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to add flavor without relying on sugar or salt.

Editor's Opinion: Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

The brown sugar glazed pork chops recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The brown sugar glaze caramelizes beautifully, creating a delicious crust on the pork chops. The blend of garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper adds depth and complexity to the dish. The cooking method ensures the pork chops are juicy and tender. This recipe is simple yet impressive, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's a crowd-pleaser that will surely become a favorite in any household.

Enhance Your Brown Sugar Glazed Pork Chops Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with melted butter.

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables, drizzled with balsamic glaze and sprinkled with fresh herbs.

Fruit Salad: Refreshing fruit salad with a mix of seasonal fruits, tossed in a light honey-lime dressing.

Creamy Polenta: Smooth and creamy polenta topped with sautéed mushrooms and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.

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Apple Crisp: Enjoy the warm and comforting flavors of apple crisp with this easy recipe. It's the perfect dessert for fall, or any time you're craving something sweet and delicious.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Your Meal

Appetizers:

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Creamy and indulgent, this dip is the perfect way to start off any meal. The combination of spinach, artichoke, and cheese creates a rich and savory flavor that will leave your guests wanting more.

Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized delights are filled with a savory mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs, creating a burst of flavor in every bite. Perfect for any gathering or as a pre-dinner treat.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant dessert is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crispy oat topping. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat.

Why trust this Brown Sugar Glazed Pork Chops Recipe:

This recipe guarantees succulent pork chops with a mouthwatering brown sugar glaze. The combination of light brown sugar, garlic powder, and paprika creates a tantalizing flavor profile. The use of olive oil ensures a perfect sear, locking in the juices. Trust the rave reviews from those who have relished these delectable pork chops. This recipe is a testament to the culinary prowess of the chef, promising a delightful dining experience.

Share your thoughts on the Brown Sugar Glazed Pork Chops Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?

Yes, boneless pork chops can be used for this recipe. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as boneless chops may cook faster than bone-in chops.

Can I substitute the light brown sugar with dark brown sugar?

Yes, you can substitute light brown sugar with dark brown sugar. The flavor may be slightly richer with dark brown sugar, but it will still work well with the pork chops.

Can I grill the pork chops instead of pan-frying them?

Absolutely! Grilling the pork chops will add a delicious smoky flavor. Just make sure to preheat the grill and cook the pork chops over medium-high heat for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

How can I tell if the pork chops are cooked through?

You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork chops. They should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. Alternatively, make a small cut near the bone to ensure there is no pinkness and the juices run clear.

Can I prepare the spice rub in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the spice rub in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This can save time when you're ready to cook the pork chops.