Savory Baked Pork Chops with Cinnamon Apples

Baked Pork Chops and Apples Recipe

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Servings: 6
Category: Pork
Cuisine: American
Keywords: Apple, Fruit, Meat, Oven, Easy Dinner, Fall Recipe, Comfort Food

Description:
This Baked Pork Chops and Apples recipe is a true autumnal delight, perfect for when apples are in season. Originally discovered in a Maryland apple orchard pamphlet, this dish combines the savory richness of pork chops with the natural sweetness of apples, creating a harmony of flavors that is comforting and satisfying. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering.

Ingredients and Nutritional Information

Nutritional Overview (per serving)

• Calories: 470.7 kcal
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8.4g
• Cholesterol: 147.5mg
• Sodium: 147.1mg
• Carbohydrates: 25.9g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 21.5g
• Protein: 41.6g

Instructions

1. Prepare the Apples:

   • Begin by peeling, coring, and slicing the apples into even, medium-thin slices. Aim for about 1/4-inch thickness, ensuring that they cook down evenly without turning mushy.
   • This step is essential, as the apples will provide a sweet base for the pork chops. If you have access to various apple varieties, opt for a combination of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for a more complex flavor profile.

2. Preheat the Oven:

   • Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when the pork chops are browned and layered with the apples. Preheating ensures even cooking, which is important for both the meat and the apples.

3. Melt the Butter:

   • In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. The butter not only provides a rich base but also helps the pork chops brown beautifully, giving them a deep, golden color.

4. Brown the Pork Chops:

   • Once the butter is melted and slightly sizzling, add the pork chops to the skillet. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are nicely browned. This searing process locks in the juices, ensuring that the pork chops remain tender after baking.
   • Season the pork chops with salt and pepper at this stage if desired.

5. Prepare the Baking Dish:

   • While the pork chops are browning, grease a large baking dish (a 9×13-inch dish works well) with butter or non-stick spray. This will prevent the apples and pork from sticking to the dish during the baking process.

6. Layer the Apples:

   • Arrange the apple slices in an even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This layer will act as a bed for the pork chops, soaking up all the juices and becoming soft and flavorful during the bake.

7. Create the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture:

   • In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup of brown sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. The brown sugar brings out the natural sweetness of the apples while the cinnamon adds a warm, comforting flavor.
   • Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the apples.

8. Layer the Pork Chops:

   • Once the pork chops are nicely browned, place them directly on top of the apples in the baking dish. Position the pork chops so that they cover most of the apples, allowing the juices from the pork to seep into the fruit as it bakes.

9. Cover and Bake:

   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap the moisture and prevent the pork chops from drying out. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes. This slow bake allows the pork to become tender while the apples break down into a luscious sauce-like consistency.

10. Serve and Enjoy:

    • After 1 1/2 hours, remove the foil and check the pork chops. They should be fork-tender, and the apples should have softened to create a deliciously sweet and savory base. Serve the pork chops with the baked apples spooned over the top for a comforting meal full of fall flavors.

Tips and Variations

• Apple Varieties:

  • If you have a favorite type of apple, feel free to use it! Granny Smith apples are great for a tart contrast to the sweetness of the brown sugar, while Honeycrisp or Fuji apples offer a sweeter, juicier bite.
  • If you prefer a mix of textures and flavors, try using half tart apples and half sweet apples.

• Spices:

  • For an extra layer of flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of allspice to the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture. These spices complement the apples beautifully and give the dish an even more autumnal flavor.

• Pork Chop Cuts:

  • While bone-in pork chops add a lot of flavor, you can substitute boneless pork chops or even pork tenderloin medallions if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking thinner cuts of meat.

• Side Dishes:

  • This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or even a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the pork and apples.

• Make It a One-Pan Meal:

  • You can add sliced onions or even a handful of baby carrots to the apple layer for a more savory-sweet combination. The vegetables will roast alongside the apples, absorbing the flavors of the pork chops.

• Serving Suggestions:

  • This dish is perfect for family dinners, and leftovers reheat beautifully. Serve with a drizzle of the caramelized apple juices for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Pork Chops and Apples recipe is a comforting and nostalgic dish that celebrates the flavors of fall. The combination of tender pork chops, soft, cinnamon-spiced apples, and a hint of brown sugar makes for a mouthwatering meal that feels both special and homey. Whether you’re looking for a way to use up your apple harvest or just want a cozy, hearty dinner, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your home.