Imagine a dish that combines the crispy, savory crunch of bacon, the sweet tang of caramelized apples, and perfectly tender pork chops - all prepared in under 30 minutes! This Instant Pot Pork Chops with Bacon Apple Glaze is not just a meal, it's a culinary adventure that will transform your weeknight dinner from ordinary to extraordinary. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a restaurant-quality dish that's surprisingly easy to make.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 apple, diced
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 pork chops, 4 slices of bacon (chopped), 1 diced apple, 1/2 cup of apple cider, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance their flavor.
- Set your Instant Pot to the 'Sauté' mode. Once it is hot, add the chopped bacon. Cook the bacon for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes crispy. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the bacon is crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the pot and set it aside on a paper towel to drain excess grease.
- Leave the bacon drippings in the pot. Add the diced apple to the pot and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the apple starts to soften and caramelize slightly.
- Stir in the apple cider and brown sugar, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze and release any browned bits stuck to the bottom.
- Return the crispy bacon to the pot and mix well with the apple and cider mixture.
- Place the seasoned pork chops on top of the apple and bacon mixture in the Instant Pot. Do not stir; the chops should sit on top of the glaze.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to 'Sealing'. Set the Instant Pot to 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' mode for 10 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to 'Venting' to release any remaining pressure.
- After the pressure has fully released, open the lid and check the pork chops for doneness. They should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Carefully remove the pork chops from the pot and place them on a serving platter. Spoon the bacon and apple glaze over the chops.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional diced apples or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your Instant Pot Pork Chops with Bacon Apple Glaze!
Tips
- Choose the right cut: Opt for bone-in pork chops around 1-inch thick for the juiciest results.
- Temperature is key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork chops reach 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked meat.
- Don't skip the natural pressure release: The 5-minute natural release helps keep the pork chops tender and prevents them from becoming tough.
- Bacon matters: Use thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and crispiness.
- Customize your glaze: Feel free to experiment with different types of apple cider or add a splash of bourbon for extra depth.
- Prep ahead: You can season the pork chops and chop the bacon and apples in advance to make cooking even quicker.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 100mg
