Description

Delicious Brown Sugar Chops are a perfect blend of sweet and savory, making them a hit for any occasion. With a caramelized glaze infused with brown sugar and spices, these chops bring restaurant-quality flavor to your home-cooked meal. Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner for your family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The tender and juicy texture of the pork, combined with the rich glaze, ensures every bite is a treat.

Ingredients

1. 4 beef chops (bone-in or boneless):
  - - Choose thick-cut pork chops (about 1-inch thick) for juiciness and even cooking. Bone-in chops add extra flavor but boneless can be used for convenience.

1. 1/2 cup brown sugar:
  - - Use light brown sugar for a mild sweetness or dark brown sugar for a deeper molasses flavor.

1. 2 tablespoons olive oil:
  - - Helps sear the pork chops and prevents sticking. You can substitute with vegetable or avocado oil if needed.

1. 3 cloves garlic, minced:
  - - Adds a robust, savory flavor to balance the sweetness of the brown sugar. Fresh garlic is best, but garlic paste can be a quick alternative.

1. 1 teaspoon paprika:
  - - Brings a mild smoky flavor and vibrant color to the dish. Smoked paprika can be used for extra depth.

1. 1/2 teaspoon onion powder:
  - - Enhances the savory notes and complements the garlic. Optional, but highly recommended for richer flavor.

1. 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional):
  - - Adds a subtle kick of heat to contrast the sweetness. Adjust to taste or omit for a mild version.

1. 1/4 teaspoon black pepper:
  - - Provides a hint of spice and depth. Freshly ground pepper will yield the best results.

1. 1 teaspoon salt:
  - - Essential for seasoning the meat. Kosher salt or sea salt is ideal for even distribution.

1. 1 tablespoon unsalted butter:
  - - Helps create a rich and glossy glaze. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.

1. 1/4 cup chicken broth or water:
  - - Used to deglaze the skillet, loosening up the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom and adding moisture to the glaze. Chicken broth adds extra flavor, but water works as a neutral substitute.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork Chops
  Pat the Beef chops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika. For added flavor, let the seasoning sit for 10 minutes before cooking.

1. Sear the Chops
  Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for about 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chops from the skillet and set aside.

1. Make the Glaze
  Lower the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the brown sugar, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until the sugar dissolves and forms a thick glaze.

1. Deglaze the Pan
  Pour in the chicken broth or water to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits with a wooden spoon. Let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes.

1. Coat and Cook the Chops
  Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning the glaze over them. Reduce the heat to low and let them cook for another 5–7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

1. Serve
  Transfer the chops to a serving platter, drizzle with the remaining glaze, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

This recipe’s sweetness comes from the brown sugar glaze, which adds to the carbohydrate count.
For a lower-carb option, consider reducing the brown sugar by half or substituting with a low-calorie sweetener.
Pairing with low-carb sides like roasted vegetables can make this meal more suitable for specific dietary needs, such as diabetes management.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dinner

Nutrition

Calories: 360 kcal
Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Fiber: 0.5 g
Protein: 20 g
Cholesterol: 85 mg