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Skillet Pork Chops with Apples

Savor the delightful combination of juicy pork chops, caramelized apples, and a rich pan sauce that brings warmth to your family table.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pork Chop Preparation
  • 4 pieces 4 (1-inch thick) pork chops (2 lbs total) Look for well-marbled chops for the best flavor.
  • 1.25 teaspoons 1 1/4 tsp kosher salt Enhances natural flavors.
  • 0.5 teaspoons ½ tsp black pepper Freshly cracked for maximum flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon 1 tbsp olive oil Use high-quality extra virgin for the best taste.
  • 1 tablespoon 1 tbsp unsalted butter Let come to room temperature.
Filling Ingredients
  • 2 pieces 2 apples (peeled and sliced ¼ inch thick) Honeycrisp and Granny Smith provide a sweet and tart balance.
  • 0.5 cups ½ cup finely chopped onion (about ½ a medium onion) Yellow or white are best for adding depth of flavor.
  • 0.25 teaspoons ¼ tsp kosher salt For seasoning the onions.
  • 1 teaspoon 1 tsp minced garlic (about 1 large clove) Fresh is always better.
  • 1.5 teaspoons 1½ tsp minced fresh sage or ½ tsp ground sage Fresh herbs elevate any dish.
Sauce Ingredients
  • 0.5 cups ½ cup apple cider (or white wine/unsalted chicken broth) Cider adds sweetness!
  • 1 teaspoon 1 tsp Dijon mustard Adds a nice tang to your sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon 1 tsp apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar Adds acidity for balance.
  • 1 tablespoon 1 tbsp unsalted butter For finishing the sauce.

Method
 

Searing the Pork
  1. Take your pork chops out of the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature.
  2. Pat the chops dry, season both sides with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
  4. Sear the chops for 5-6 minutes until a golden crust forms; flip and sear for another 4-5 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
  5. Transfer the chops to a plate and keep warm.
Cooking the Apples and Onions
  1. In the same skillet, add unsalted butter and melt it.
  2. Add finely chopped onions and additional salt, sauté for 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add sliced apples and minced garlic, cook for another 4-5 minutes until apples begin to caramelize.
Making the Pan Sauce
  1. Pour apple cider into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits.
  2. Stir in Dijon mustard and vinegar, let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  3. Stir in fresh sage and finish with 1 tbsp of unsalted butter.
Finalizing the Dish
  1. Return the pork chops to the skillet to coat in the sauce.
  2. Let everything simmer together for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.

Notes

Chef's Tips: Rest your pork chops before slicing. You can prep the apple and onion mix in advance.