Okay, picture this: How do I a perfectly seared pork chop, juicy and tender, topped with tangy apple glaze that just melts in your mouth. What happens when something melts in your mouth? What is the topic of today’s talk? My grandma used to make something similar with baked apples alongside roasted pork, but I think it’s a good recipe. What are some of the best Apple Pork Chops? What are some of the most comforting fall recipes? Is it quicker than making a full Sunday roast? What is your favorite recipe for apple pork chops?
What is Apple Pork Chop?
Apple Pork Chops are essentially a delicious combination of savory and sweet. Think of it as the sophisticated cousin of your classic pork and applesauce pairing. We take thick-cut pork chops, sear them to golden-brown perfection, and then simmer them in a large pan. What are some of the best apple sauce What are some of the best spices to make this delicious apple sauce? What are some of the best flavors in a glaze? It’s comfort food at its finest, but with a touch of elegance that makes it perfect for dinner. I like a bit of heat, if you like red pepper flakes, add some salt and pepper to taste.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? What are the best reasons to eat apple Pork Chops? What are some of my absolute favorite songs?
- The Flavor Explosion: What isWhat is the combination of savory pork and sweet apples? What are some of the best spices in this recipe? Is there a flavor profile that appeals to everyone? I had a friend who said she hated cooked apples, but she devoured them!
- Quick and Easy: What are some ofWhat is a good recipe to make on saturday night? Is it possible to make a movie in 30 minutes? No fancy ingredients or complicated techniques required.
- Budget FriendlyWhat are some good alternatives to pork chops and apples? How do I raise a family without breaking the bank? I often buy pork chops in bulk when they’re on sale and freeze them for later use.
- Versatile:What are some great side dishes to serve with apple pork chops? Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or even a simple salad all work beautifully. Plus, leftovers (if there are any)! ) are great in sandwiches or chopped up in a salad the next day.
What I love about this recipe is that it’s the perfect balance of comfort and sophistication. Is it simple enough for a weeknight meal, but elegant enough to serve to guests? I remember my mom’s glazed ham during the holidays, but much easier and quicker. Is there a recipe for this dish that earns its place in my regular rotation again and again?
How do I make apple pork chops?
Quick Overview
What are some easy ways to make apple pork chops? First, you’ll sear the pork chops to get a beautiful golden-brown crust. How do you make apple sauce? When the pork chops are cooked through, you’ll simmer them in the sauce until they’re tender. You can add more sauce if you like. How do you thicken a glaze? The whole process is straightforward and the results are truly incredible. How do I make a delicious dish? I always find that using One Pan to make this recipe means fewer dishes to wash. Always a plus in my book!
Ingredients
For the Apple Pork Chops:
- 4 (6-8 ounce) boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick. I prefer thick cut for extra juiciness, but thinner ones work too – just adjust the cooking time!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil. Use a good quality oil for the best flavor.
- I use kosher salt for cooking. Is it bad for health?
- 12 teaspoon black pepper. Freshly ground is always best!
- 1 tablespoon butter. Unsalted butter adds a rich flavor to the sauce.
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced. Adds a savory base to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced. Garlic is a must for flavor!
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored and chopped. Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji apples work great. I’ve even used Granny Smith when I wanted a tart bite.
- 1 cup apple cider. This adds a wonderful apple flavor to the sauce.
- 14 cup brown sugar. Adds sweetness and helps create a beautiful glaze.
- What is the best apple cider vinegar recipe?
- 12 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Adds warmth and spice.
- 14 teaspoon ground nutmeg. Just a pinch adds to the aroma.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops
How do you pat the Pork Chops dry with paper towels? Season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Letting them sit for about 15 minutes after seasoning helps the salt penetrate the meat, making them crispy. Is there a way to make
Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Remove from heat and set aside. Once the oil is shimmering, add the pork chops to the skillet. What are some ways to sear them for about 3-4 minutes per side, until they’re golden brown and have a nice crust. Don’t overcrowd the pan – if necessary, cook the pork chops in batches. Remove pork chops from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. If you like minced garlic, add it to the pan and cook for another minute, until fragrant. How do you burn garlic?
Step 4: Add the Apples and Spices
Add the chopped apples to the skillet and cook for about 3-5 minutes, until they begin to soften. Stir in the apple cider, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir well. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 5: Simmer the Pork Chops
Return pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the apple sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the pork is tender. When chops are cooked through, the sauce has thickened. The internal temperature of pork chops should reach 145°F (63°C).
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Remove pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. How do you serve apple sauce over pork chops? Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
What should I serve it with?
What are the best recipes for apple pork chops? What are some of my favorite serving suggestions?
- For a Classic Comfort Meal:Serve apple pork chops with creamy mashed potatoes and a side of steamed green beans. Is it a simple, satisfying meal that everyone will love? What are some good ways to serve sour cream on mashed potatoes?
- For a Fall Feast:Pair them with roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and a sprinkle of toasted pecans. What are some of the best ways to celebrate the flavors of autumn? I usually add maple syrup to my squash for extra sweetness.
- For a Lighter Option: Serve them with quinoa or brown rice and a fresh green salad. It’s a healthy and delicious meal that won’t weigh you down. A vinaigrette dressing with a touch of apple cider vinegar is a great complement to the dish.
- For a Special Occasion: Serve them alongside wild rice pilaf and asparagus with a lemon butter sauce. It’s an elegant and impressive meal that’s perfect for a dinner party or holiday gathering.
I also love to serve these apple pork chops with a side of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. You really can’t go wrong, though. It is so good with just about anything.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Apple Pork Chops
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that can really take your apple pork chops to the next level. Here are some of my top tips:
- Choose the Right Apples: The type of apples you use will affect the flavor and texture of the sauce. Honeycrisp, Gala, and Fuji apples are all great choices because they hold their shape well and have a balanced sweetness. Granny Smith apples will add a tartness to the sauce. It’s really about personal preference!
- Don’t Overcook the Pork Chops: Overcooked pork chops are dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they’re cooked to the perfect temperature. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Adjust the Sweetness to Your Liking: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice to balance the sweetness.
- Add a Touch of Spice: For a little extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. It’s a great way to add some heat to the dish.
- Thicken the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it for a few more minutes, uncovered. You can also whisk in a slurry of cornstarch and water (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water).
- Make it Ahead: You can make the apple sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook the pork chops, simply sear them and then simmer them in the sauce.
One thing I learned the hard way is to not skip patting the pork chops dry before searing. That little step makes a huge difference in getting that beautiful golden-brown crust. And trust me, you want that crust!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftover apple pork chops (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Room Temperature: Let the apple pork chops cool completely before storing them. They can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
- Refrigerator Storage: Store the cooled pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them nice and juicy.
- Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the apple pork chops. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Reheating Instructions: To reheat the pork chops, you can either microwave them or reheat them in a skillet. If microwaving, cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. If reheating in a skillet, add a little bit of water or apple cider to the pan to keep them moist. Cook until heated through.
I’ve found that the glaze holds up really well when stored separately. If I know I’m going to have leftovers, sometimes I’ll reserve a bit of the sauce before adding the pork chops, just so I can have some extra to drizzle over the reheated chops.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this apple pork chops recipe a try! It’s a dish that brings so much joy to our family, and I know it will become a favorite in your home too. The combination of savory pork and sweet apples is simply irresistible, and it’s such a versatile dish that can be served in so many ways. If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other pork recipes for more delicious meal ideas!
Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you make any variations, I’d love to hear about them too! Share your photos and tag me on social media – I love seeing your creations!
How to Make Juicy Apple Pork Chops in 8 Simple Steps
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops 1-inch thick
- 2 medium apples such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith, cored and sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Season pork chops with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Add apple slices to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, until softened.
- Return pork chops to the skillet and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.
