Ingredients
- 4 bone-in or boneless steak chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or dried thyme)
Ingredient Highlights:
- Brown Sugar: The key ingredient for that perfect balance of sweet and savory, creating a caramelized crust when seared.
- Soy Sauce & Worcestershire Sauce: These two ingredients pack a punch of umami and depth, making the steak chops even more flavorful.
- Garlic & Dijon Mustard: A touch of garlic adds aromatic flavor, while Dijon mustard brings a slight tang that balances the sweetness of the brown sugar.
- Fresh Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a beautiful herbaceous note that complements the richness of the meat.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade
Start by making the marinade. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, black pepper, salt, and thyme. Stir until the brown sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth. You’ll notice that the soy sauce and brown sugar create a gorgeous glossy marinade that smells absolutely amazing.
2. Marinate the Steak Chops
Place the steak chops in a shallow dish or a large resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the steaks, making sure each chop is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to an hour. If you have time, marinating for up to 4 hours will really infuse the meat with flavor. The longer it marinates, the more tender and flavorful it becomes!
3. Preheat Your Skillet
Once the steak chops are done marinating, take them out of the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking. Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer, but not smoke, before adding the steaks.
4. Sear the Steak Chops
Carefully place the marinated steak chops in the hot skillet. Let them sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, until you get a beautiful golden-brown crust. Don’t move them around too much during this time. The caramelization from the brown sugar will help create that perfect seared exterior, so give it time to form.
5. Cook Through
After searing both sides, reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking the steak chops for another 6-8 minutes, depending on their thickness and desired doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F, medium should be 140°F, and well-done should be 160°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak is cooked to your preference.
6. Rest the Meat
Once the steaks are done, transfer them to a plate and cover them loosely with foil. Let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period helps redistribute the juices inside the meat, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your brown sugar steak chops with your favorite sides, and enjoy the burst of sweet and savory flavors in every bite!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6