This dish features juicy pork chops paired with sweet sautéed apples and onions. The mix of tender meat and fruity goodness makes each bite a real treat!
Cooking this is a breeze! I love how the apples get caramelized and the onions bring out their flavor. Perfect for a cozy dinner—just add some mashed potatoes and you’re set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops deliver the best flavor and tenderness, but boneless chops work too. Just be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out faster.
Apples: I recommend using Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp apples for their sweetness and slight tartness. If those aren’t available, any firm apples will do like Granny Smith or Braeburn.
Onions: Yellow onions are best for this dish due to their sweetness when cooked. You could use red onions for a milder taste or shallots for a delicate flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the seasoning in the dish. If you’re dairy-free, use olive oil or coconut oil instead.
How Do I Get Perfectly Golden-Brown Pork Chops?
Achieving a great sear on your pork chops is essential for flavor. Start by patting them dry to remove moisture; this helps get that golden crust.
- Heat your skillet on medium-high until hot, then add oil.
- When the oil is shimmering, add the pork chops carefully. Avoid overcrowding the pan!
- Sear for 4-5 minutes on each side. Don’t move them around too much; let them develop a nice crust first.
Using a meat thermometer can also be a game-changer—aim for an internal temp of about 145°F (63°C) for juicy chops!
Pork Chops with Sautéed Apples and Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 medium apples, cored and sliced (such as Gala or Fuji)
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or 2 sprigs fresh thyme (optional: rosemary for garnish)
- 1/2 cup apple cider or chicken broth
- Optional: fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish
Time Needed:
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes prepping your ingredients, then about 20 minutes cooking everything to perfection. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Generously season both sides with salt and black pepper. Don’t be shy—this will enhance the flavor!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they develop a golden-brown crust and are nearly cooked through (look for an internal temperature of around 145°F / 63°C). Once done, transfer them to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
3. Sauté the Onions:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once it melts, add the sliced onions. Sauté the onions for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and translucent.
4. Add the Apples and Spices:
Now, add the apple slices, cinnamon, and thyme to the skillet. Cook this mixture, stirring occasionally, until the apples start to soften, which should take about 4-5 minutes. The aroma will be amazing!
5. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the apple cider (or chicken broth), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to add flavor. Let this simmer for about 3-4 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly and all the flavors meld together beautifully.
6. Combine and Finish Cooking:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, laying them on top of the apple and onion mixture. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the pork to warm through completely and absorb some of those delicious flavors.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove from heat. If you like, garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs for an extra pop of flavor. Serve the pork chops with the sautéed apples and onions spooned generously on top—enjoy your hearty and flavorful meal!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes! Boneless pork chops will work fine. Just be cautious not to overcook them, as they can dry out quicker than bone-in chops. Adjust the cooking time by a couple of minutes since boneless chops typically cook faster.
What Kind of Apples Are Best for This Recipe?
Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp apples are excellent choices due to their sweetness and firmness. If those aren’t available, any firm apple like Granny Smith or Braeburn can work as well, just keep in mind they may provide a tart flavor!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of apple cider or broth to help keep the pork moist and enhance the flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the apple and onion mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day before cooking the pork. Just reheat the mixture in a pan before adding the chops for a quick dinner!