My Grandmother’s Oven-Baked Pork Chops with Canned Pineapple

There was a time when stretching a grocery budget required a little creativity. My grandmother had a gift for turning simple pantry staples into meals that felt comforting and special. One of her favorite springtime recipes was oven-baked pork chops topped with canned pineapple rings. She often made it after cleaning out the pantry, using ingredients she already had on hand.

As the pork chops slowly baked, the pineapple caramelized on top, releasing its sweet juices into the pan. The result was tender pork coated in a glossy sweet-and-savory sauce that tasted far more luxurious than its humble ingredients suggested. This easy recipe remains a wonderful reminder that delicious home cooking doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Uses affordable pantry ingredients
• Requires minimal preparation
• Creates a naturally sweet and savory sauce
• Perfect for busy weeknights
• Family-friendly and comforting
• Easy enough for beginner cooks

Ingredients

Serves 4

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops
• 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple rings, juice reserved
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional)
• 2 tablespoons water (optional)

Kitchen Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Small mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Aluminum foil
• Basting spoon

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Lightly grease a baking dish with the vegetable oil. This prevents sticking and helps the pork develop a bit of color as it cooks.

Step 2: Season the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels.

In a small bowl, combine:

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder

Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops.

Arrange the seasoned pork chops in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Create the Pineapple Sauce

Pour about ½ cup of the reserved pineapple juice into a small bowl.

Add:

• Brown sugar
• Soy sauce

Whisk until the sugar dissolves.

This simple mixture becomes the flavorful base for the sweet pan sauce that develops during baking.

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