Brown Sugar Baked Pork Chops – A Sweet & Savory Oven-Baked Dinner That Melts in Your Mouth
If you’re looking for a simple, hearty, and flavor-packed dinner that’s made straight from pantry staples, this Brown Sugar Baked Pork Chops recipe is just what you need. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this oven-baked pork chop dish is a family favorite you’ll come back to again and again.
Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, these juicy pork chops are guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these tender, sweet-and-savory pork chops, you only need a handful of ingredients:
- 4 thick-cut pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 4 tablespoons brown sugar (packed)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, smoked paprika, or chili flakes for added flavor
Preparation Instructions (Step-by-Step)
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This medium temperature ensures the pork chops cook through evenly while remaining moist and tender.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or a neutral oil. Lay the pork chops in a single layer, making sure they’re not overlapping.
3. Add the Flavor
Now comes the magic:
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of brown sugar over each pork chop.
- Place 1 tablespoon of butter directly on top of each chop.
- Drizzle soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce evenly over the meat.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika if desired for extra depth of flavor.
4. Bake Covered
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. This helps the pork chops stay juicy while the brown sugar and butter begin to blend into a delicious glaze.
5. Uncover & Finish Baking
After 40 minutes, remove the foil and return the dish to the oven.
Bake uncovered for another 20 minutes to allow the top to brown and the sauce to caramelize. You’ll notice the sauce thickening and bubbling—pure deliciousness!
6. Let It Rest
Take the pork chops out of the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat for maximum tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
These pork chops are incredibly versatile. Pair them with:
- Garlic mashed potatoes for a creamy, savory contrast
- Steamed white rice to soak up the sweet-savory sauce
- Oven-roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts
- Or go low-carb with cauliflower mash or sautéed greens
Top with a drizzle of the glaze from the pan for an extra punch of flavor.
What to Do with Leftovers?
This dish stores beautifully!
- Slice leftover pork chops and use them in sandwiches or wraps
- Dice and toss with veggies for a quick pork fried rice
- Shred and mix into a hearty salad or grain bowl
- Reheat gently with a splash of broth to keep them juicy
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- For a deeper flavor, marinate the pork chops for 1 hour before baking using the same ingredients.Reuben Bake with Layers of Corned Beef
- Want a slightly smoky taste? Add ½ tsp smoked paprika to the seasoning.
- For a crispier crust, sear pork chops in a hot skillet before placing them in the oven.
- Use bone-in chops for even juicier results.
why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s made with simple, affordable ingredients
- Comes together in under 1 hour
- Packed with bold, satisfying flavor
- Easily adaptable to suit your taste
- Perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches