Day 5 Dinner: Pork Chops + Roasted Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Bits
Prep Time:
5 minutes
Cook Time:
20-25 Minutes
Serves:
1
Level:
Intermediate
About the Recipe
Juicy, perfectly grilled pork chops seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and paprika, served alongside roasted Brussels sprouts topped with crispy bacon bits. This flavorful, protein-packed dinner is easy to prepare and sure to be a family favorite.
Ingredients
Grilled Pork Chops:
6-8 oz pork chop (bone-in or boneless)
1 tablespoon olive oil or melted bacon grease (for grilling)
½ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for added depth)
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Bits:
1 cup Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
1 tablespoon olive oil or melted bacon grease
2 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
½ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Preparation
Prepare the Pork Chops:
Preheat Grill or Skillet:
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F) or heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
Season the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chop dry with paper towels.
Rub with olive oil or melted bacon grease.
Season both sides with sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
Grill the Pork Chops:
Grilling Option: Place the pork chop on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Pan-Searing Option: Add the pork chop to a hot skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Rest the Pork:
Transfer the pork chop to a plate and let it rest for 3-5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prep the Brussels Sprouts:
Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half.
Toss with olive oil or melted bacon grease, sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
Roast the Brussels Sprouts:
Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Roast for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
Add the Bacon Bits:
Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and toss with crumbled bacon bits.
Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness.
Assemble and Serve:
Plate the Pork Chops and Brussels Sprouts:
Place the grilled pork chop on a plate.
Add the roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon bits on the side.
Optional Garnish:
Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
Ways to Get Kids Involved:
Season the Pork Chops: Let the kids sprinkle the salt, pepper, and paprika over the pork chops.
Toss the Brussels Sprouts: Allow them to toss the Brussels sprouts in the olive oil and seasoning.
Crumble the Bacon: Let them crumble the cooked bacon with their hands or a fork.
Arrange the Baking Sheet: Have them help spread the Brussels sprouts on the baking sheet.
Name the Dish: Encourage them to name their meal something fun like “Super Pork Power” or “Bacon Blast Brussels.”
Simple Flavor Boost Options (Optional):
Garlic Butter Drizzle: Melt butter with minced garlic and drizzle over the pork chops before serving.
Lemon Zest and Thyme: Add a sprinkle of fresh thyme and lemon zest for a citrusy, herby finish.
Balsamic Glaze on Brussels Sprouts: Drizzle sugar-free balsamic glaze over the roasted Brussels sprouts for a tangy-sweet touch.
Parmesan on the Brussels Sprouts: Sprinkle grated Parmesan on the Brussels sprouts before serving for a nutty flavor.
Cajun Spice on the Pork Chops: Add a pinch of Cajun seasoning to the pork chops for a smoky, spicy kick.
Mustard Cream Sauce: Serve with a simple mustard cream sauce for dipping or drizzling over the pork.
Recipes Created by BloodSugarChef.com
Meal Plan by American Diabetes Society