Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet & Savory Balance : The rich brown sugar glaze pairs perfectly with the savory pork chops.
- Quick & Easy : Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Juicy & Flavorful : The brown sugar crust locks in moisture while adding incredible flavor.
- Versatile : Serve as a main course with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad.
- Crowd-Pleasing : Always a hit at family dinners, potlucks, or holiday meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Serves 4
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and pepper , to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or butter, for searing)
For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark, your choice)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or balsamic vinegar for a deeper flavor)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat the olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops
- Add the pork chops to the hot skillet and sear for 3–4 minutes per side , or until golden brown and caramelized on the outside. Remove the chops from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Glaze
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the brown sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble.
