Skillet Barbecue Pork Chops
Juicy pork chops are cooked to perfection in a flavorful barbecue sauce with celery, lemon, and spices, making it a hearty and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, brown pork chops in vegetable oil about 5 minutes on each side.
- Pour off excess fat from the skillet.
- Sprinkle celery, brown sugar, lemon juice, dry mustard, salt, and pepper over the pork chops.
- Add tomato sauce to the skillet.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, marinate the pork chops in a mixture of lemon juice, brown sugar, and dry mustard for a few hours before cooking. If you're out of celery, finely chopped bell peppers can be a great substitute. To enhance the barbecue flavor, consider adding a splash of your favorite barbecue sauce to the tomato sauce before simmering, making this a standout dish among American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These Skillet Barbecue Pork Chops pair beautifully with Country Potatoes for a hearty meal. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced plate. For a fun twist, shred the leftovers and use them to make Sandwich Pinwheels for lunch the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Alternatively, you can microwave them on low power until heated through, ensuring they don't dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Skillet Barbecue Pork Chops contains roughly 15 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 497mg per serving (22% 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 bone-in pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, bone-in pork chops can be used for this recipe. They may require a slightly longer cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked through. Just make sure to check the internal temperature, which should reach 145°F for safe consumption.
What can I serve with these pork chops?
Great side options include mashed potatoes, grilled corn, or a simple coleslaw. For a lighter option, serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables. The flavors of the dish complement a variety of sides, so feel free to get creative!
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pork chops ahead of time. Cook them as directed and let them cool before storing in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat gently on the stove or in the oven with a little sauce to keep them moist.
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).