Brown Sugar Pork Chops
Juicy, thick-cut pork chops with a caramelized brown sugar glaze, seared then oven-baked for a sweet and savory main dish.
Ingredients
- 2 large bone-in pork chops, thick-cut (roughly 1.5 inches / 3.8 cm thick)
- 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar 100 g
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted 28 g
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Season Pork Chops:
Using paper towels, thoroughly dry the pork chops. Coat each side evenly with kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder, working the seasonings into the meat.Sear in Skillet:
In a cast-iron skillet set over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil until it shimmers. Place the pork chops in the skillet and sear for exactly 2 minutes per side, until a deep golden-brown crust develops.Make Glaze Mixture:
Combine the melted butter, dark brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl, whisking until smooth. Drizzle this mixture over the seared pork chops.Bake Pork Chops:
Place the skillet into a preheated 400°F (205°C) oven. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reads 140°F (60°C) and the glaze is bubbling.Broil to Caramelize:
Turn the oven to high broil. Broil the chops for 1–2 minutes, until the sugar caramelizes deeply and edges become slightly charred. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.Rest and Serve:
Take the skillet out of the oven and move the chops to a plate. Allow them to rest for 5 minutes, during which the internal temperature will climb to 145°F (65°C). Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve alongside mashed potatoes.