This easy brown sugar pork chops recipe yields juicy baked pork chops with a simple seasoning rub in about 20 minutes. It’s a quick, family-friendly dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Baked Pork Chops with Brown Sugar and Paprika
If you want a simple pork chop dinner made with everyday ingredients, this recipe fits the bill. It’s easy to prepare and cooks quickly, making it ideal for weeknights or any time you need a reliable, satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy.
The secret to tender, juicy pork chops in the oven is a high temperature for a short time. A light mustard layer helps the brown sugar and spices form a sweet, tangy glaze as the chops bake. Serve these with quick sides like couscous, rice and peas, green beans, or steamed broccoli for a complete meal.
Ingredient Notes
Below are the ingredients you’ll need; exact amounts are available in the recipe card further down.
- Pork chops — Choose thick chops about 1/2 to 1 inch thick. Boneless chops cook a bit faster; bone-in works too but will require a few extra minutes.
- Dijon mustard — Adds mild tang and helps the dry mix form a glaze. Use sparingly so the mustard flavor doesn’t dominate.
- Brown sugar — Light or dark brown sugar both work to give sweetness and caramelization.
- Seasonings — Sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Swap in smoked or hot paprika for a different flavor profile.
- Olive oil — A tablespoon or a light coating to prevent sticking on the baking sheet.
How to Make Brown Sugar Pork Chops
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and arrange them on a foil-lined, rimmed baking sheet. Lightly spread Dijon mustard on each chop, then sprinkle the brown sugar and spice mixture over them. Bake at 400°F (204°C) for about 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer. Remove from the oven and let the chops rest, loosely covered, for about 5 minutes before serving to retain juices.
Recipe Tips
Thin chops typically finish in about 15 minutes; thicker cuts take 20–25 minutes. Bone-in chops can require 25–30 minutes. Always rely on an instant-read thermometer for the most accurate doneness.
Storage
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze cooked pork chops for up to three months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture.
More Easy Baked Pork Chops Recipes
If you enjoy this method, try other simple baked pork chop variations like crispy breaded chops, pork chops and rice, sheet-pan maple-Dijon pork chops with vegetables, or baked ranch pork chops to keep weeknights interesting.
Baked Brown Sugar Pork Chops
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 thick boneless pork chops ½ inch to 1 inch thick
- 2 tsps Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp sweet paprika
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400℉ and line a rimmed baking sheet with foil.
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Spread the olive oil evenly over the baking sheet.
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Pat the chops dry with paper towels and place them on the prepared sheet.
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Spread Dijon mustard over each pork chop.
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Sprinkle the brown sugar and seasoning mixture evenly over the chops.
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Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer registers 145℉.
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Remove from oven, cover loosely, and let the chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
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