Are you ready to transform an ordinary dinner into a mouthwatering culinary experience? This tantalizing Pork with Cranberry Sauce recipe is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen! Imagine tender, golden-brown pork chops perfectly complemented by a rich, glossy cranberry sauce that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Whether you're cooking for family or impressing dinner guests, this simple yet sophisticated dish promises to elevate your meal from mundane to magnificent in just 40 minutes.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove pork chops from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Pat pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better browning.
- Season both sides of pork chops generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and is hot but not smoking.
- Carefully place seasoned pork chops into the hot skillet and cook for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove pork chops from skillet and let them rest on a clean plate for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- In the same skillet, pour cranberry sauce and heat for 2-3 minutes, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to enhance flavor.
- Plate the pork chops and generously spoon warm cranberry sauce over the top.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your pork chops sit at room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution and prevent dry, tough meat.
- Pat Dry for Perfect Sear: Use paper towels to remove moisture from the pork chops. This crucial step guarantees a beautiful golden-brown crust that locks in juicy flavor.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook pork chops in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and achieve that perfect sear.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For foolproof results, check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked, juicy pork.
- Let It Rest: Always allow your pork chops to rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of cinnamon to your cranberry sauce for an extra flavor dimension.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley can elevate the dish's presentation and add a bright, fresh note to the rich flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 85mg
