Get ready for some juicy Grilled Brown Sugar Pork Chops! These tender chops are sweet and smoky, thanks to some brown sugar magic. Perfect for summer barbecues!
I love how easy these pork chops are to make on the grill. Just season, cook, and enjoy with a side of your favorite veggies. They’ll have everyone asking for seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops offer nice flavor and juiciness, but you can use boneless chops if that’s what you have. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as they might cook faster.
Brown Sugar: This gives a wonderful sweetness and caramelization. If you want a lower-carb option, consider using coconut sugar. It won’t be as sweet, but it’s a good alternative.
Spices: Paprika adds smokiness, but you can switch it out for smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. If you want more heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper works great! Fresh herbs like rosemary or basil can also give a different twist.
Olive Oil: This helps the seasoning stick and prevents sticking on the grill. Alternatively, use avocado oil, which has a high smoke point, making it perfect for grilling.
How Do You Get the Perfect Grill Marks and Avoid Burning Sugar?
Achieving those perfect grill marks while avoiding burnt sugar is key for these pork chops. Here’s how:
- Preheat your grill thoroughly; this helps to sear the meat quickly, locking in juices.
- Don’t flip the chops too soon! Give them about 4-5 minutes per side to develop those gorgeous grill marks.
- Keep the heat at medium-high, as too hot can lead to burning sugar. You want a lovely caramelization, not char.
- If you notice sugar starting to char, you can move the chops to a cooler part of the grill for the last few minutes.
Letting the cooked meat rest is important too! It keeps the chops juicy and flavorful. Enjoy your grilled meal with those sides for a delicious experience!
Grilled Brown Sugar Pork Chops Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or dried parsley)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional sides: grilled potatoes and steamed green beans
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and roughly 10-12 minutes for cooking, plus a short resting time of about 5 minutes. In total, you can have a delicious dinner ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Dry Rub:
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Stir well until everything is mixed together. This flavorful mix will be your dry rub!
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely on the grill. Rub both sides of the pork chops with olive oil to help the seasoning stick better.
3. Season the Chops:
Generously sprinkle the brown sugar mixture over both sides of each pork chop, pressing down gently so it sticks. Get those flavors absorbed!
4. Preheat the Grill:
While the pork chops are resting, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F. A hot grill is key to a perfect sear!
5. Grill the Chops:
Once the grill is hot, place the pork chops on it. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, checking occasionally. You want a nice sear and grill marks, and the internal temperature should reach 145°F for safety.
6. Keep an Eye on the Sugar:
Remember, the sugar will caramelize and can burn quickly. If you see it getting too dark, move the chops to a cooler part of the grill or lower the heat a little. Stay vigilant!
7. Let Them Rest:
Remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest on a plate for about 3-5 minutes. This allows the juices to settle, ensuring a juicy chop!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the grilled pork chops warm, paired with optional sides like grilled potatoes and steamed green beans for a complete and delicious meal.
Enjoy the sweet, smoky, and juicy goodness of these Grilled Brown Sugar Pork Chops! They’ll be a hit at your dinner table!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless pork chops! Just be aware that they may cook faster than bone-in chops, so start checking for doneness a couple of minutes earlier. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar, you can substitute it with granulated sugar mixed with a bit of molasses, or use honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness. Adjust the quantity slightly, as liquid sweeteners may require reducing other liquids in the recipe.
How Long Can I Keep Leftover Pork Chops?
Leftover pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying them out.
Can I Grill the Pork Chops in the Oven?
Absolutely! If you can’t use a grill, you can cook the pork chops in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the seasoned chops on a baking sheet, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Just be sure to flip them halfway through for even cooking!
