Baked pork chops (Bahamas)
Thick, juicy pork chops are first pan-seared to create a golden crust, then slow-baked in a tangy and sweet sauce made from ketchup, brown sugar, and a bright hint of fresh lemon.
It's a comforting, satisfying meal that’s perfect for a family dinner. The initial sear locks in the juices, and the two-stage baking process ensures the pork becomes incredibly tender while the sauce thickens into a delicious glaze. This is home cooking at its most heartwarming—uncomplicated, packed with flavor, and sure to have everyone asking for seconds
Ingredients
Instructions
Prepare the pork chops and oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). To season the flour, mix it with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. You can also add other spices like paprika or cumin for extra Dredge each pork chop in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.
Sear the pork chops: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the pork chops in the hot skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until they are beautifully golden brown. This step is key for developing flavor and texture.
Assemble for baking: As the pork chops are seared, transfer them to a baking dish large enough to hold them in a single layer. Place one slice of fresh lemon on top of each pork chop.
Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, water, and brown sugar until the sugar is mostly dissolved. Pour this sauce evenly over the pork chops in the baking dish.
Bake in two stages: Cover the baking dish tightly with a lid or aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. This initial covered baking time helps to keep the pork chops moist and tender. After 30 minutes, remove the cover and continue to bake for another 30-40 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken and caramelize slightly, and for the pork to become fully cooked and tender.
Rest and serve: Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and let the pork chops rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender bite. Serve the pork chops hot, with plenty of the delicious pan sauce spooned over the top.
Notes
Don't be shy when seasoning your flour. A good mix of salt, black pepper, paprika, and a pinch of cumin or garlic powder will build a fantastic flavor base.
For an extra glossy and rich sauce, stir a tablespoon of butter into the baking dish during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Variations
For a touch of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the ketchup sauce.
While lemon provides a classic tang, you can easily substitute lemon with slices of orange or lime for a different, equally delicious citrus note.
You can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. After searing, place the chops and sauce in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. For the final touch, you can transfer them to a broiler for a few minutes to caramelize the sauce.
This sweet and tangy sauce also works wonderfully with chicken thighs or pork ribs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly.