Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy pork chop, perfectly seared and paired with the sweet, caramelized goodness of apples and onions. This classic American dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a quick and easy meal that can be prepared in just 40 minutes! Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply want a comforting family dinner, this "Pork Chops with Apples and Onions" recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds. Ready to elevate your weeknight meals? Let’s dive into this delightful culinary experience!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 2 apples, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon thyme
Instructions
- Remove pork chops from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, which ensures more 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, black pepper, and dried thyme, pressing the seasonings into the meat.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and is hot.
- Carefully place pork chops in the hot skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove pork chops from the skillet and set aside on a plate, tenting with aluminum foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add sliced onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and become translucent.
- Add sliced apples to the skillet and cook with onions for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing them to caramelize slightly.
- Return pork chops to the skillet, nestling them among the apples and onions to reheat briefly and combine flavors.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with fresh thyme sprigs if desired, and plate the pork chops with the caramelized apples and onions.
Tips
- Bring to Room Temperature: For the best results, remove the pork chops from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the meat to reach room temperature, ensuring even cooking throughout.
- Dry for Better Browning: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels before seasoning. This crucial step helps achieve that beautiful, golden-brown crust that everyone loves.
- Season Generously: Don't be shy with the seasoning! Generously coat both sides of the pork chops with salt, black pepper, and thyme. Press the seasonings into the meat for maximum flavor.
- Use the Right Heat: Heat the olive oil in your skillet until it shimmers before adding the pork chops. This high heat is key to achieving a perfect sear.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the pork chops in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the skillet can lower the temperature and prevent proper browning.
- Tent to Keep Warm: After cooking, let the pork chops rest under aluminum foil. This keeps them warm while you prepare the apples and onions, and helps the juices redistribute.
- Caramelize for Flavor: When cooking the onions and apples, let them caramelize slightly. This adds depth and sweetness to the dish, complementing the savory pork chops beautifully.
- Nestle for Flavor: When returning the pork chops to the skillet, nestle them among the apples and onions. This allows the flavors to meld together, creating a harmonious dish.
- Garnish for Presentation: For an elegant touch, garnish your dish with fresh thyme sprigs before serving. Not only does it look appealing, but it also enhances the aroma and flavor.
- Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve the dish right away while everything is hot and fresh. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 339kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 24g
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 70mg
