Dinner

Brown Sugar-Pineapple Pork Chops

These Brown Sugar-Pineapple Pork Chops are the perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors. Juicy pork chops are marinated in a delicious blend of brown sugar, pineapple juice, garlic, and thyme, then cooked to perfection with a caramelized glaze. Whether grilled, pan-seared, or baked, this dish is an easy and flavorful weeknight dinner that pairs perfectly with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh pineapple salsa!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Essential Ingredients

  • 4 pork chops
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • 1 cup pineapple chunks
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced

Directions

Marinate the Pork Chops

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, pineapple juice, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the pork chops and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).

Cook the Pork Chops

Grilling:

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Remove pork chops from the marinade and grill for 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through.

Pan-Searing:

  1. Heat a pan over medium-high heat and cook pork chops for 5-7 minutes per side.

Baking:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Place pork chops on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until fully cooked.

Glazing the Pork Chops

  1. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, pineapple juice, and olive oil.
  2. Brush the glaze over the pork chops during the last 2 minutes of cooking for a caramelized finish.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 390 kcal
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg
  • Sodium: 420mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cream of Mushroom Soup Pork Chops is a quick, easy, and comforting meal that delivers rich, savory flavors with minimal effort. This one-pan dish features tender, golden-seared pork chops smothered in a creamy, flavorful mushroom sauce made with condensed soup, onions, and garlic. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

The combination of juicy pork chops and a velvety mushroom sauce makes this recipe a true comfort food favorite. Whether served with mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or roasted vegetables, this dish is filling, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s a great budget-friendly meal that uses pantry staples to create something delicious.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

  • One-Pan Convenience: Everything is cooked in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
  • Rich and Creamy Sauce: The condensed cream of mushroom soup creates a thick, luscious sauce that coats the pork chops perfectly.
  • Juicy, Flavorful Pork Chops: The pork chops are seared for a golden crust, then simmered in the sauce for extra tenderness.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
  • Versatile Side Pairings: This dish goes well with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables.

Tips for Perfect Pork Chops

To ensure your pork chops turn out tender and flavorful, follow these key tips:

  • Choose the Right Cut: Bone-in pork chops tend to be juicier and more flavorful, but boneless pork chops work well too. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they cook faster.
  • Season Well: A simple seasoning of salt, pepper, and garlic powder enhances the pork’s natural flavor.
  • Let Pork Chops Rest Before Cooking: Letting the pork chops sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes ensures even cooking.
  • Get a Good Sear: Searing the pork chops in a hot skillet with butter and oil creates a golden crust that locks in juices.
  • Simmer in Sauce for Extra Tenderness: Cooking the pork chops in the mushroom sauce allows them to absorb extra moisture and flavor.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: Pork is fully cooked at 145°F (63°C). Overcooking can make the meat dry, so check the temperature for the perfect doneness.

The Secret to the Best Creamy Mushroom Sauce

The creamy mushroom sauce is the star of this dish, and here’s how to make it extra delicious:

  • Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup: This provides the base of the sauce, making it rich, creamy, and full of umami flavor.
  • Chicken or Beef Broth: Adds depth and thins out the sauce for the perfect consistency.
  • Onions and Garlic: These ingredients create a savory, aromatic base that enhances the flavor.
  • Butter for Extra Richness: Sautéing the onions in butter adds a layer of richness and silkiness to the sauce.
  • Fresh Herbs (Optional): Adding chopped parsley or thyme at the end brightens up the dish.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Cream of Mushroom Pork Chops

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some great options:

Classic Pairings

  • Mashed Potatoes: The creamy mushroom sauce pairs perfectly with fluffy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food meal.
  • Steamed White or Brown Rice: A great option for soaking up the delicious sauce.
  • Egg Noodles or Pasta: The sauce makes an excellent topping for buttered egg noodles or fettuccine.

Vegetable Sides

  • Roasted or Steamed Broccoli: Adds a fresh contrast to the rich sauce.
  • Sautéed Green Beans: A simple side that complements the savory flavors of the dish.
  • Glazed Carrots: The slight sweetness pairs well with the umami-packed mushroom sauce.
  • Garlic Butter Asparagus: A flavorful vegetable side that works beautifully with pork.

Bread & Extras

  • Crusty French Bread: Perfect for sopping up the extra creamy sauce.
  • Dinner Rolls or Biscuits: Soft, warm bread is always a great addition.

Variations & Customization Options

While this recipe is delicious as-is, you can customize it to suit your preferences:

  • Add Fresh Mushrooms: For extra texture and flavor, sauté sliced cremini or button mushrooms with the onions.
  • Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a little heat.
  • Cheesy Version: Stir in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan or shredded cheddar for a cheesier sauce.
  • Herb-Infused Sauce: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley for a fresh, herby twist.
  • Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes or pasta.
  • Gluten-Free Alternative: Use a gluten-free condensed soup or make your own mushroom sauce from scratch.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

This dish stores well, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.

  • Refrigeration: Store pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Let the pork chops cool, then store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheating:
    • Stovetop: Warm the pork chops in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
    • Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 15 minutes.
    • Microwave: Heat in short 30-second bursts, stirring in between to prevent overheating.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion

Cream of Mushroom Soup Pork Chops are a great meal option for any day of the week. Here’s why:

  • Quick & Easy: Only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Family-Friendly: The savory, creamy flavors are loved by both kids and adults.
  • Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients while still feeling like a hearty, restaurant-quality meal.
  • Great for Meal Prep: The leftovers reheat well, making it a convenient option for lunches or make-ahead dinners.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Whether you’re making dinner for your family or hosting a casual gathering, this dish is a surefire hit.

Conclusion

Cream of Mushroom Soup Pork Chops is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that combines juicy, pan-seared pork chops with a rich and creamy mushroom sauce. It’s an easy one-pan meal that’s ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.

With endless pairing options, customizable flavors, and minimal cleanup, this dish is a go-to comfort food favorite. Whether served with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables, these pork chops bring warmth, heartiness, and satisfaction to the table.

 

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