Irresistible Brown Sugar Pork Chops

Category: Meals for Every Occasion

Coat pork chops in a spiced brown sugar rub, pan-fry till golden and saucy. Done in 30 minutes.
Clare Greco
Updated on Tue, 10 Jun 2025 14:26:24 GMT
Quick Brown Sugar Pork Chops Save
Quick Brown Sugar Pork Chops | homebitesbyana.com

Turn simple pork chops into a sweet, flavorful treat with a coating of brown sugar and spices. You only need half an hour, and you'll have a meal that tastes like you ordered out—even on busy nights.

I tried a bunch of spice combos, but this mix of heat and sweetness knocks it out of the park. Every bite has a little kick and just enough sugar to keep you coming back.

Irresistible Ingredients

  • Garlic Powder: Sets a savory base
  • Paprika: Gives a smoky punch
  • Chili Powder: Adds mellow heat
  • Cajun Seasoning: Packs a spicy, complex hit
  • Brown Sugar: Forms that caramel crust
  • Pork Chops: Thick cuts work best here
Easy 30 Minute Brown Sugar Pork Chops Save
Easy 30 Minute Brown Sugar Pork Chops | homebitesbyana.com

Crafting Your Meal

Let It Rest:
Set your cooked chops aside for a few to help keep them juicy.
Even Cooking:
Hold the pan hot until it’s just right for searing that crust.
Prep the Blend:
Mix brown sugar with all the spices so every bite gets the flavor.
Season the Pork:
Dry off the meat and rub that spice mix everywhere.
Golden Sear:
Fry both sides until they're that perfect shade of brown. Keep an eye on temperature.

I grew up with pork chops that were way too dry. Once I switched to this method, the sugar makes this awesome crisp layer and the chops stay nice and moist. Thanks, brown sugar!

Yummy Sides

Spoon them over fluffy mashed potatoes or some buttery rice. Drizzle the pan juices all over. Roasted asparagus or green beans add a fresh, crunchy bite too.

Fun Variations

Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar if you want. Toss in some rosemary for a fresh kick. Bone-in chops? They'll give you a juicier bite.

Storing Leftovers

Pop any leftovers into an airtight box and keep them in the fridge for three days tops. Warm them low and slow in the oven, so they don’t dry out. Skip the microwave—it’ll make them tough.

30 Minute Brown Sugar Pork Chops Recipe Save
30 Minute Brown Sugar Pork Chops Recipe | homebitesbyana.com

I count on these brown sugar loaded chops during the week. The sugar goes crispy while those spices turn the pork super tasty. It's proof you don't need much to make something awesome if you do it right.

Quick Sweet Pork Chops

Tender pork chops in a sweet and spiced caramelized glaze. Quick to cook and super satisfying.

Prep Time
10 min
Cooking Time
20 min
Total Time
30 min
By: Ana

Category: Lunch & Dinner

Skill Level: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yields: 4 Servings

Dietary Preferences: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Main

01 4 thick pork chops, boneless (about 1-inch each)
02 1 tbsp olive oil
03 Pepper and salt as needed

→ Spice Rub

04 2 tbsp brown sugar
05 1 tsp paprika
06 1 tsp Cajun spice blend
07 1 tsp garlic powder
08 1 tsp dried oregano
09 1 tsp chili powder

Steps

Step 01

Stir brown sugar, oregano, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and Cajun seasoning together in a small dish.

Step 02

Dry the pork chops with paper towels, sprinkle with salt and pepper, then cover with the spice mix.

Step 03

Warm the oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 4–5 minutes on each side until the internal temperature hits 145°F.

Step 04

Set pork aside for 5 minutes to rest before slicing and serving.

Notes

  1. Check doneness with a meat thermometer.
  2. Letting it rest locks in the juices.
  3. Pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes.

Required Equipment

  • Large pan
  • Thermometer for meat
  • Bowl for spice mix
  • Paper towels

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

These details are for informational purposes only and don’t replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 355
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Carbs: 10 g
  • Protein: 29 g