My mother-in-law doesn't eat much, but she devoured this dish!

These Baked Sweet Ginger Pork Chops are a delightful twist on a classic dish that brings a touch of sweet and spicy flair to your dinner table. I first stumbled upon this recipe on a chilly Midwest evening when I wanted something comforting yet unique. The combination of ginger, soy sauce, and honey makes these chops flavorful and incredibly satisfying. The ease of preparation means you can enjoy a gourmet-style meal without spending hours in the kitchen—perfect for those of us balancing work and passion projects!

These pork chops are great with a variety of sides. I love to pair them with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes, which you can toss in the oven alongside the chops. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the pork beautifully. And if you're feeling a bit more indulgent, creamy mashed potatoes never disappoint.

Servings: 4 servings

4 boneless pork chops, about 1 inch thick
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, olive oil, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes, if using.

Place the pork chops in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Make sure each chop is well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours if you have time.

Transfer the pork chops to a baking dish, pouring any remaining marinade over the top.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).

Once done, remove the chops from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions.

For a different twist, you can use maple syrup instead of honey for a richer flavor. Additionally, if you're a fan of smoky flavors, adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the marinade brings a whole new dimension to the dish. For those who prefer a bit of citrus zing, a squeeze of fresh orange juice in the marinade pairs wonderfully with the ginger and soy sauce.