Brown Sugar Pork Chops with Rosemary (Juicy and Easy)
Serves 4
15 mins prep
15 mins cook
30 mins total
These brown sugar pork chops use a simple spice rub and a quick sear-and-oven finish for juicy, flavorful results in about 30 minutes.
Heat oven to 425 (220 C) degrees.
Combine 3 tablespoons light brown sugar, 1 tablespoon kosher salt, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary, 1 teaspoon garlic powder and ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper in a small bowl. Sprinkle the mixture on both sides of 4 pounds thick-cut pork chops (1-½-inch), lightly rubbing it in. Let the chops sit at room temperature for 15 minutes or cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance.
Heat a heavy oven-proof skillet (cast iron is perfect) over medium-high heat until a drop of water sizzles instantly. Add the oil and the pork chops. Sear until nicely browned (but not burned) on one side, 3-5 minutes. Turn the pork chops over and transfer the skillet to the oven.
Bake until the meat is cooked through and feels firm to the touch (140-145 degrees on a meat thermometer), 8-10 minutes. Let the pork chops rest 5 minutes before serving.