How to Make Tangy Mustard Glazed Pork Chops: A Delicious and Easy Recipe
If you’re looking for a flavorful and easy dinner recipe that will impress your family or guests, tangy mustard glazed pork chops are an excellent choice! Pork chops are a versatile cut of meat that pairs beautifully with the bold flavors of mustard, honey, and spices. This recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike, and it’s simple enough to whip up on a weeknight. Let’s dive into how to make this mouthwatering dish step by step.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we get started, gather all the ingredients you’ll need. Here’s your shopping list:
- 4 thick-cut pork chops (bone-in or boneless)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Optional: Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
That’s it! These simple ingredients will create a tangy, sweet, and slightly smoky glaze that will elevate your pork chops to the next level.
Step 1: Prep Your Pork Chops
Start by preparing your pork chops. Pat them dry with paper towels. Dry pork chops will help them brown nicely in the pan and prevent them from steaming. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Rub the spices into the meat for maximum flavor.
Tip: If you have time, let the seasoned pork chops sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes. This allows the flavors to soak into the meat and ensures even cooking.
Step 2: Make the Tangy Mustard Glaze
The glaze is what makes this dish shine! In a small bowl, combine Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, honey, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of garlic powder. Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy. Taste the glaze and adjust the flavors if necessary—add more honey for sweetness or a touch more vinegar for tanginess.
Set the glaze aside while you prepare the pork chops. You’ll use it both during cooking and as a finishing sauce.
Step 3: Sear the Pork Chops
To start cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and let it heat until shimmering. Carefully place the pork chops in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. If your skillet is small, cook the pork chops in batches.
Sear the chops for 3–4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Be patient—this is where the flavor develops! Avoid flipping the chops too early. Once browned, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Step 4: Cook with the Glaze
Once the chops are seared, reduce the heat to medium. Pour the mustard glaze into the skillet and let it bubble for a moment. Then, return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning the glaze over each chop to coat them evenly. The sauce will thicken as it simmers.
Cover the skillet with a lid and cook the pork chops for an additional 5–7 minutes. This allows them to soak up the glaze and ensures they’re fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—pork should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe eating.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once the pork chops are cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping them tender and juicy.
While the chops rest, pour any remaining glaze from the skillet over them for extra flavor. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives if desired for a pop of color.
Tips for Side Dishes
Tangy mustard glazed pork chops pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes balance out the tangy flavors of the glaze.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, or green beans are healthy and delicious options.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve the pork chops over a bed of rice or quinoa to soak up the glaze.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness works perfectly with the mustard sauce.
You can mix and match your favorite sides to create a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Tangy mustard glazed pork chops are a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of seared pork, sweet and tangy glaze, and warm spices makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser. Best of all, it doesn’t require fancy equipment or complicated techniques. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or someone who loves experimenting with bold flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Why not give it a try tonight? You can customize the glaze to suit your taste and serve it alongside hearty sides or fresh salads. Once you taste the irresistible combination of tender pork and tangy mustard, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner.
Happy cooking—and enjoy your tangy mustard glazed pork chops!
