Delicious Baked Pork Chops
Juicy baked pork chops coated with a tangy ketchup mixture, enhanced by lemon slices and brown sugar, ideal for hearty family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put pork chops in a baking dish.
- Mix ketchup and water; pour over pork chops.
- Add 1 teaspoon brown sugar onto each chop. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place 1 lemon slice on each chop.
- Cover and bake in a slow oven (275° to 300°F) for 2 hours.
- Add more ketchup and water mixture if it gets too dry. Baste the pork chops.
- Uncover the dish during the last 30 minutes of baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in the ketchup and water mixture for a few hours before baking. If you want to reduce sugar, substitute half the brown sugar with honey or maple syrup. Additionally, for a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. This recipe aligns with many classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these baked pork chops alongside creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. A fresh green salad or steamed broccoli also pairs nicely, balancing the richness of the dish. For a twist, try serving it with the sauce from the Company Ham Dish for added depth.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover baked pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chops in a baking dish with a bit of the sauce and cover with foil to retain moisture, then heat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Delicious Baked Pork Chops contains roughly 128 calories, with 1g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 889mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different cuts of pork for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts like pork loin or tenderloin, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Thinner cuts will require less time, while thicker cuts may need additional cooking to ensure they are fully cooked and tender.
What can I use instead of ketchup?
If you're looking for a substitute for ketchup, you can use barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor or a mixture of tomato paste, vinegar, and a bit of sugar to mimic the sweetness and acidity of ketchup.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance by assembling the pork chops and sauce, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).