These maple glazed pork chops are sweet, juicy, and oh-so-tasty! The rich maple syrup gives them a standout flavor that’ll have your taste buds dancing with joy!
Seriously, who knew sweetness could be so delicious on pork? I love making these for dinner because they cook quickly and pair perfectly with veggies or rice. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are ideal for this recipe because they stay juicy during cooking. However, you can use boneless chops or even pork loin if that’s what you have on hand.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, you could substitute with honey for a different sweetness profile. The taste will still be delicious!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is the best choice for a vibrant flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, feel free to use garlic powder. Start with 1/2 teaspoon.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely herbaceous note, but if you don’t have it, dried thyme can work too. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried thyme instead.
How Do I Get a Perfect Sear on My Pork Chops?
To get that beautiful golden brown crust on your pork chops, here are some useful tips:
- Make sure the pork chops are at room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Pat them dry with paper towels; moisture will prevent them from searing properly.
- Use a hot skillet and don’t overcrowd it. If you’re cooking more than 4 chops, do it in batches.
- Let them sear without moving them for 3-4 minutes to build a nice crust.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 145°F (63°C).
Following these tips will help you serve perfectly cooked pork chops every time!
Maple Glazed Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- Fresh thyme sprigs (about 4-5 sprigs)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, so you’re looking at a total of about 25 minutes! Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something tasty but quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
First, take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them get that nice, crispy sear. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper—don’t be shy!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s nice and shimmering. Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet and let them sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want them to be golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 145°F/63°C). Once cooked, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Maple Glaze:
With the skillet still over medium heat, add the butter. Once it’s melted, stir in the minced garlic and fresh thyme. Cook for about a minute until everything smells amazing. Now, pour in the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Let this glaze simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
4. Glaze the Pork Chops:
Now it’s time to bring back the pork chops! Place them back in the skillet and spoon the maple glaze over them. Cook for an additional minute on each side so they get coated in that sweet glaze and warm throughout.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the thyme sprigs from the skillet, and your maple glazed pork chops are ready to be served! Drizzle a little more of that tasty glaze over the top and garnish with extra thyme if you’d like. Enjoy these flavorful chops with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad!
Dig in and savor the sweet, savory goodness of your Maple Glazed Pork Chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just remember to adjust the cooking time since they may cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if they seem dry.
What Can I Substitute for Maple Syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup, honey or agave syrup can be great substitutes, though the flavor will change slightly. Brown sugar dissolved in a little water can also work if you’re in a pinch!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the glaze in advance and refrigerate it. Just reheat the glaze when you’re ready to cook the pork chops, and it will save you some time during dinner prep!