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Overhead view of glistening brown sugar pork chops on a dark rustic ceramic plate with mashed potatoes on the side.

Best Baked Brown Sugar Pork Chops Recipe

Discover the ultimate baked brown sugar pork chops featuring a bubbling, caramelized glaze with charred edges. This quick, mouth-watering dinner is juicy, rustic, and perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors for the whole family.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 2 chops
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 485
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 large Thick-cut bone-in pork chops About 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) thick.
  • 1/2 cup Dark brown sugar Packed. Provides deep molasses flavor.
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted butter Melted.
  • 1 tbsp Apple cider vinegar Adds acidity to balance the sweetness.
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil For searing the meat.
  • 1 tsp Smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper Freshly cracked.
  • 1 tbsp Fresh parsley Finely chopped for garnish.

Equipment

  • 1 Cast-Iron Skillet Essential for getting a deep, golden-brown sear.
  • 1 Meat Thermometer Ensures the pork chops reach exactly 145°F (63°C).

Method
 

Preparation and Cooking
  1. Pat the pork chops completely dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Press the spices into the meat.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear the pork chops for exactly 2 minutes per side until a deep golden-brown crust forms.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, dark brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Spoon this mixture generously over the seared pork chops.
  4. Transfer the skillet to an oven preheated to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 10-12 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) and the glaze is actively bubbling.
  5. Switch the oven to the broil setting on high. Broil the chops for 1-2 minutes until the sugar heavily caramelizes and forms slightly charred edges. Watch closely to prevent burning.
  6. Remove from the oven and transfer the chops to a plate. Let them rest for 5 minutes so the internal temperature rises to 145°F (63°C). Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with mashed potatoes.

Notes

Tip 1: Always pat the meat dry before searing to guarantee a gorgeous, rustic crust.
Tip 2: Thin pork chops will dry out easily. Always use cuts that are at least 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) thick.