This dish features juicy pork chops cooked to perfection, topped with sweet sautéed apples and onions. It’s a lovely mix of flavors that will warm your heart!
The combo of savory pork with the sweet toppings is a winner at any dinner. I sometimes add a bit of cinnamon for a fun twist! Serve it with rice or potatoes, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for extra flavor and juiciness. If you prefer, boneless chops or even pork loin could work fine too, just adjust the cooking time.
Apples: I recommend Gala or Honeycrisp for their balance of sweetness and tartness. For a change, try Granny Smith if you like a tangier taste, or even pears for a different flavor profile!
Onions: Yellow onions caramelize beautifully, but you can use sweet onions like Vidalia or even red onions for a bit of color and sweetness.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely herbal note. If you don’t have fresh, dried thyme will do, but use a little less. Alternatively, rosemary or sage could also be delicious.
How Can I Get Perfectly Sautéed Apples and Onions?
The key to sautéing apples and onions lies in the timing and heat. Start with the onions—they take longer to soften and caramelize. Here’s how to do it right:
- After cooking the pork, keep the skillet on medium heat. Add butter and let it melt before adding the onions.
- Cook the onions for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and start to turn golden brown.
- Add the apple wedges and thyme, and continue cooking until the apples are tender (around 3-4 minutes).
- If needed, add a splash of liquid to help deglaze the pan, scraping up flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.
These steps help bring out those delicious flavors that compliment the pork perfectly!
How to Make Pork Chops with Sautéed Apples and Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 2 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Sautéed Apples and Onions:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 apple (such as Gala or Honeycrisp), cored and sliced into thin wedges
- 1-2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 cup apple cider or chicken broth (optional, for deglazing)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Pinch of ground cinnamon (optional, to enhance apple flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, totaling about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll be serving up a delicious meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder if you’re using it. This seasoning will add lots of flavor!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Next, heat a large cast-iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat, then add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, gently place the pork chops in the skillet. Let them sear undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Then, flip the chops and cook for another 3-5 minutes until they’re fully cooked (the internal temperature should be 145°F or 63°C). Once done, remove them from the pan and place on a plate, covering them lightly with foil to keep warm.
3. Sauté the Onions:
In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Once melted, toss in the sliced onions. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and starting to brown. The onions should turn sweet and caramelized!
4. Add Apples and Thyme:
Now, stir in the apple slices and thyme sprigs. Cook everything together for another 3-4 minutes until the apples begin to soften. They will add a lovely sweetness to the dish!
5. Deglaze the Pan (Optional):
If you’d like to intensify the flavors, you can deglaze the pan. Add your apple cider or chicken broth and scrape up those tasty browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes until slightly reduced.
6. Finish and Serve:
Before serving, taste the sautéed apples and onions. If you want, sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon for that extra warmth and sweetness. Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them among the apples and onions. Spoon some of the juices over the top and let everything warm together for just 1-2 minutes.
Finally, serve your pork chops hot with the sautéed apples and onions generously spooned over the top. You can garnish with extra thyme if you like. This dish is fantastic with mashed potatoes, rice, or some hearty bread. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-in?
Yes, boneless pork chops will work just fine! Just be sure to reduce the cooking time slightly, as they typically cook faster. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Thyme?
No worries! You can use dried thyme instead; just use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Alternatively, rosemary or sage can also be great substitutes!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You can add a splash of water or broth to keep the pork moist.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, carrots, or even Brussels sprouts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked to perfection!
