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Savory Brown Sugar Garlic Pork Chops Recipe Easy Cast Iron Skillet Meal

savory brown sugar garlic pork chops - featured image

A quick and easy recipe featuring pork chops seared in a cast iron skillet with a sweet and savory brown sugar garlic glaze, perfect for busy weeknights and casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 pork chops, about 1-inch thick, bone-in preferred
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt, about 1/2 tsp per chop
  • Black pepper, about 1/4 tsp per chop
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
  2. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and minced garlic until well mixed.
  3. Heat a 10-inch cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  4. Add pork chops to the skillet and sear without moving for 3-4 minutes until a deep golden crust forms. Flip and sear the other side for 3 minutes.
  5. Spoon the brown sugar garlic mixture evenly over the top of each chop; the sugar will start to melt and caramelize.
  6. Add butter and apple cider vinegar around the chops. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter and vinegar over the chops for about 1 minute to create a glossy glaze.
  7. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for another 3-4 minutes until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  8. Remove chops from skillet and let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Watch the sugar carefully as it melts to avoid burning. Use medium to medium-low heat once sugar is added. Pat pork chops dry before seasoning to ensure a good crust. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. Let chops rest for 5 minutes before serving to redistribute juices. For variations, add cayenne pepper for heat or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for aroma.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork chops, brown sugar, garlic, cast iron skillet, easy dinner, savory glaze, quick recipe, weeknight meal