Pork Chops with Baked Apples

Elevate your dinner with this classic yet simple dish that perfectly balances the savory richness of pork chops with the sweet, tender complexity of baked apples. This recipe, marrying the hearty and the wholesome, promises an elegant meal that can grace both a quiet family dinner and a more festive gathering.

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Serving Size

• Serves 4

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 4 apples, cored and sliced into wedges (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup apple cider
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Directions

1. Prepare Pork Chops:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper.
   • In a large ovenproof skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
   • Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside.
2. Prepare Baked Apples:
   • In the same skillet, add the apple slices, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook over medium heat until the apples begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
   • Pour in the apple cider and bring to a simmer. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Combine and Bake:
   • Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them in among the apples.
   • Dot the tops of the pork chops with butter.
   • Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake until the pork chops are cooked through (an internal temperature of 145°F), about 15-20 minutes.
4. Serve:
   • Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after removing from the oven.
   • Serve hot, with the baked apples and juices spooned over the top.

Nutritional Info (per serving)

This Pork Chops with Baked Apples recipe brings a delightful balance of flavors and textures to your table, ensuring a satisfying and nutritious meal that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye. Bon appétit!