Brown Sugar Italian Pork Chops
This recipe brings together the sweetness of brown sugar with the savory depth of Italian seasoning, creating a beautiful balance that coats each pork chop in a rich, caramelized glaze. Pork chops have long been a staple in American home cooking, especially in the Midwest and Southern regions, where hearty, affordable meals are a way of life.
Ingredients
- 1 packet Italian dressing mix
- 8 boneless pork chops
- ½ cup brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
- In a small bowl, combine the Italian dressing mix and brown sugar. Stir until the mixture is well blended and evenly combined.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and allows for better browning.
- Rub the brown sugar and Italian seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each pork chop, making sure they are well coated.
- Arrange the pork chops in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Leave a little space between each chop so they cook evenly.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- For a caramelized finish, switch the oven to broil and cook the pork chops for an additional 2–3 minutes, watching closely so they do not burn. This step helps create a slightly crisp, golden coating on top.
- Remove the pork chops from the oven and allow them to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep them juicy and tender.
- Enjoy!
