Description
These baked brown sugar pork chops are a quick, easy, and indulgent weeknight meal. Thick-cut chops are coated in a sweet and savory spice rub and baked until caramelized and juicy.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 thick-cut, bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder
- Olive oil (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning.
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and mustard powder. Mix well.
- Drizzle a little olive oil on the pork chops and sprinkle the rub generously over both sides, pressing the spices into the meat.
- Place the chops on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, leaving space between each chop.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, avoiding opening the oven door frequently.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; remove when it reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Let the chops rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Notes
Ensure pork chops are uniformly thick to prevent dry spots. If using boneless chops, reduce cooking time slightly. Do not crowd the pan to allow for proper air circulation. Resting the meat is crucial for juiciness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pork chop per serv
- Calories: 275
- Sugar: 7
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Protein: 28
Keywords: pork chops, brown sugar pork, baked pork chops, easy dinner, weeknight meals, gluten-free, high protein