Root Beer Glazed Pork Chops
Root beer makes an unexpectedly delicious glaze for pork chops, combining flavors like anise, licorice, cinnamon, and ginger for a unique and savory-sweet sauce. The glaze pairs perfectly with seared and oven-baked pork chops seasoned with paprika, garlic, and oregano. Served over mashed potatoes and garnished with fresh parsley, this dish offers an easy, flavorful twist on a classic dinner!
Root Beer Glazed Pork Chops are the comfort meal you didn’t know you needed. When root beer is paired with pork, it creates a warmly spiced, savory dish — perfect for winter months or when you want an elevated dish from the comfort of your home!
The root beer paired with beef stock creates a savory-sweet flavor that pairs well with pork chop’s natural sweetness. Together they create a slight molasses umami flavor that enhances the pork chops.
FAQs
Q: Can I use boneless pork chops?
A: Yes, boneless pork chops work perfectly in this recipe. Just keep in mind they cook a little faster and can dry out more easily than bone-in chops. If using boneless, start checking the internal temperature a few minutes earlier and remove them from the oven once they reach 145–150°F. Let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving to keep them juicy.
Q: What can I use if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?
A: You can use a dutch oven or any oven-safe pan. If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, simply sear the pork chops on the stovetop first, then transfer them to a baking dish to finish cooking in the oven. The key is getting a good sear before baking.
Q: Can I grill the pork chops instead?
A: Absolutely. Cook the pork chops for about 4–6 minutes per side depending on thickness. Grill until the internal temperature reaches 145–150°F, then let them rest for 5 minutes. Because the glaze contains sugar from the root beer, it’s best to spoon most of it over the chops after grilling to prevent burning.
Q: If I want to serve these in the summer, what do they pair well with?
A: For summer, pair the sweet and savory pork chops with lighter, fresh sides like grilled corn, coleslaw, grilled vegetables, or my pasta salad.
Root Beer Glazed Pork Chops
Ingredients
For the glaze:
- 2 cups root beer
- 1 cup beef stock
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp corn starch
For the pork chops:
- 2 bone in pork chops I get mine from Range Market
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1½ tsp salt
- 1½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp. butter
- parsley for garnish
Instructions
For the glaze:
- Add root beer & beef stock to a pot and bring to a light boil over medium high heat. Gently simmer for about 1 hr until it reduces into a light syrup. Add the corn starch slurry to thicken.
For the pork:
- Preheat oven to 425 F. Pat pork chops dry and rub in seasonings. Melt butter to a cast iron skillet heated over medium heat. Add pork chops and sear for 2-3 mins each side to form a crust. Place pan in oven and bake until internal temperature reaches 150F, about 15 mins.3. Plate on a bed of mashed potatoes and ladle glaze over pork chops. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
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