This dish features juicy pork chops cooked with sweet apple cider, creating a tasty mix of flavors. It’s a lovely fall meal that warms your heart and tummy!
I love how easy it is to make. Just cook the chops and pour in the cider—dinner is ready in no time! The hint of apple makes every bite delightful. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are preferred for more flavor and moisture. If you only have boneless chops, they will work too; just reduce cooking time slightly.
Apples: I like using Fuji or Gala apples because they’re sweet and hold up well during cooking. If you want something tart, Granny Smith is an excellent choice.
Apple Cider: Fresh cider adds a wonderful sweetness. If you can’t find it, apple juice is a decent substitute, but you might want to adjust the sugar in the recipe.
Onions: Yellow onions are sweet when cooked and great for this dish. If you have red onions on hand, they can also work, offering a slightly different flavor.
How Do I Get the Pork Chops Perfectly Browned?
Browning the pork chops gives them rich flavor and texture. Here’s the trick:
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chops. This helps to sear them properly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if necessary. This keeps those beautiful sear marks and prevents steaming.
- Let them cook without moving them around for the initial sear—about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness.
These steps will give you juicy and flavorful pork chops that you’ll enjoy with the apple cider sauce!
Pork Chops with Apple Cider
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 apples (such as Fuji or Gala), cored and thinly sliced
- 1 cup apple cider (fresh or store-bought, unsweetened if possible)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, plus extra sprigs for garnish
- 1 teaspoon fresh sage leaves, chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear! Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper for great flavor.
2. Sear the Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until they’re nicely browned. Remove the chops from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Onions and Apples:
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and apples. Cook while stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until the onions soften and the apples start to caramelize. This will create a sweet base for the dish!
4. Add the Flavors:
Now, stir in the minced garlic, thyme leaves, and sage (if you’re using it). Cook for 1 minute until everything is fragrant and well-combined.
5. Pour in the Apple Cider:
Next, pour in the apple cider, scraping the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to loosen up any of that tasty brown stuff left behind. This adds even more flavor to the sauce!
6. Simmer the Chops:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, making sure to nestle them into the delicious apple and onion mixture. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes. You’re looking for the pork chops to be cooked through and tender, aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Finish Up the Sauce:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops to a serving plate and tent them with foil to keep warm. Increase the heat to medium-high and let the sauce cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly.
8. Add Butter and Serve:
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the butter until it melts and the sauce becomes glossy. Spoon the yummy apple and onion sauce over the pork chops and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs.
9. Enjoy Your Dish:
Serve these delightful pork chops immediately with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh green salad. Enjoy!
Bon appétit! Your warm, flavorful Pork Chops with Apple Cider are ready to be devoured!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! Just reduce the cooking time slightly, as they tend to cook faster—about 4-5 minutes per side should be sufficient.
What Can I Substitute for Apple Cider?
If you don’t have apple cider on hand, unsweetened apple juice is a good alternative. You can also mix in a splash of vinegar to mimic the acidity of cider, but reduce the amount slightly to avoid overpowering the dish.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of apple cider if it seems dry.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or parsnips along with the apples and onions. Just be sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
