Save This cola-glazed pork chop skillet transforms ordinary pork chops into a mouthwatering dinner with minimal effort. The sweet-savory glaze creates a beautiful caramelized coating that makes these chops irresistible, and the entire dish comes together in just 20 minutes for those busy weeknights when you need something delicious but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen.
I discovered this recipe during a particularly hectic week when I needed quick dinners, and it's become my secret weapon for impressing dinner guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The first time I made it, my husband asked if I'd been cooking all day because the flavors were so developed.
Ingredients
- boneless pork chops about 1 inch thick: Look for chops with a bit of marbling for the juiciest results
- salt: Kosher salt works beautifully here to enhance the meat's natural flavor
- black pepper: Freshly ground adds the best flavor
- regular cola not diet: The real sugar is essential for proper caramelization
- ketchup: Adds tomato richness and tanginess to balance the sweetness
- soy sauce: Provides umami depth and saltiness to counter the sweet cola
- brown sugar: Enhances caramelization and adds molasses notes
- Dijon mustard: Brings a sophisticated tang that cuts through the richness
- garlic powder: Offers savory notes without the risk of burning that fresh garlic has
- vegetable oil: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point for proper searing
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork:
- Pat the pork chops completely dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper, pressing the seasonings into the meat. Properly dried and seasoned meat is crucial for developing a good sear and flavor base.
- Mix the Glaze:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together cola, ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder until completely smooth and incorporated. The mixture will look thin at this point, but it will reduce and thicken beautifully during cooking. Make sure the brown sugar is fully dissolved for even caramelization.
- Sear the Chops:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. Add the seasoned pork chops carefully to avoid splatter. Allow them to cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until deeply golden brown before flipping. This initial sear locks in juices and creates flavor through the Maillard reaction.
- Add the Glaze:
- Pour the cola glaze mixture over the seared pork chops, allowing it to bubble up around the edges. Immediately reduce the heat to medium to prevent the sugars from burning. The sauce should maintain a gentle simmer throughout cooking.
- Simmer and Reduce:
- Allow the pork chops to simmer uncovered in the glaze for 8-10 minutes, turning once halfway through. The glaze will gradually thicken and coat the chops with a glossy finish. For perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F in the thickest part.
- Rest and Serve:
- Transfer the finished pork chops to a plate and let them rest for 2 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. During this time, the glaze will continue to thicken slightly in the hot pan. Spoon the additional glaze over the chops just before serving for maximum flavor and visual appeal.
Save The secret ingredient that makes this recipe special is definitely the cola. I was skeptical the first time I tried cooking with soda, but the caramelization that happens as it reduces creates complex flavors that would take hours to develop using traditional methods. My family now requests these cola chops at least twice a month, and I'm always happy to oblige since they're so quick to prepare.
Perfect Pairings
This glazed pork pairs exceptionally well with creamy sides that can soak up the delicious sauce. Mashed potatoes are my go-to choice, but creamy polenta or buttered rice also work beautifully. For vegetables, something with a bit of crunch provides nice textural contrast. Steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a simple green salad balance the richness of the glaze.
The sweet-savory profile of this dish also pairs wonderfully with slightly tart accompaniments. Applesauce or roasted apples make excellent side dishes, as do cranberry relish or pickled vegetables. The acidity cuts through the richness and refreshes the palate between bites.
Make-Ahead Options
While this dish comes together quickly, you can still prep components ahead of time to make dinner even faster. The glaze can be mixed up to three days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before using.
For a complete meal prep solution, you can season the pork chops and store them separately from the prepared glaze. When ready to cook, simply sear the chops and add the premade glaze according to the instructions. This cuts the active prep time down to almost nothing.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your glaze isn't thickening properly, there are a few potential solutions. First, make sure you're using regular cola, not diet, as the real sugar is necessary for proper reduction. Second, try increasing the heat slightly to encourage more rapid evaporation. Finally, if you're still having trouble, you can remove the cooked pork chops and continue reducing the sauce separately until it reaches your desired consistency.
For pork chops that seem tough, the most common culprit is overcooking. Pork tenderloin and chops are lean cuts that become dry when cooked beyond medium (145°F). Invest in an instant-read thermometer to ensure perfect doneness every time.
Save This recipe is a weeknight lifesaver that consistently delivers delicious results. The combination of sweet cola and savory pork creates a deeply satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I ensure the pork chops stay juicy?
Pat the chops dry, sear over high heat, and avoid overcooking. Let them rest briefly before serving to retain moisture.
- → Can I substitute another protein for pork?
Yes, chicken breasts or thighs work well. Adjust cooking times to ensure the meat cooks through and stays tender.
- → Is the glaze very sweet?
The cola and brown sugar add sweetness, but soy sauce, Dijon, and ketchup balance the flavor for a savory finish.
- → What sides go well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or rice pair perfectly, complementing the flavors of the glaze and pork.
- → Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce and confirm your ketchup is gluten-free to keep the meal safe for gluten sensitivities.
- → Should I marinate the pork chops?
For extra flavor, marinate the chops in half the glaze for an hour before cooking. This step is optional but recommended.