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Skillet Pork Chops with Apples

A delightful dish combining succulent pork chops with sweet apples and a tasty pan sauce, perfect for any occasion.
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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, Comfort Food
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pork Chops
  • 4 pieces 1"-thick pork chops (2 lbs total) Look for bone-in chops for added flavor.
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt Enhance the flavors of the dish.
  • ½ teaspoons black pepper A pinch of spice to balance the sweetness.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For a perfect sear.
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter Because butter makes everything better!
For the Sauce
  • 2 pieces apples, peeled and sliced ¼ inch thick (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work well) Choose your favorite variety for different flavor profiles.
  • ½ cup finely chopped onion (about ½ a medium onion) Sweet, caramelized onions add depth.
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt Use to season the onions.
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic (about 1 large clove) Fresh minced garlic is a wonderful aromatic addition.
  • 1½ teaspoons minced fresh sage or ½ tsp ground sage This herb adds an earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with pork.
  • ½ cup apple cider (or white wine/unsalted chicken broth) Choose cider for a sweet zing and wine/broth for a savory note.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard Adds a touch of tang.
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar Balances the sweet and savory.
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter For the finishing touch to your sauce.

Method
 

Sear the Pork
  1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to shimmer.
  2. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season generously with kosher salt and black pepper on both sides.
  3. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should read 145°F). Remove from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
Cook the Apples and Onions
  1. In the same skillet, add the butter. Once it melts, toss in the chopped onions, additional kosher salt, sliced apples, and minced garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the apples soften and the onions become translucent and fragrant.
  2. Stir in the minced fresh sage for a few moments until fragrant.
Make the Pan Sauce
  1. Pour in the apple cider (or your choice of liquid). Scrape the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to release any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Let it simmer for 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  2. Stir in the Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar, allowing the sauce to come together. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Finish the Dish
  1. Add the pork chops back into the skillet, spooning the sauce and apples over them. Let it cook together for an additional 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors.
  2. Transfer the pork chops to a plate, spooning more of the apple mixture and sauce over them. Enjoy with your favorite sides!

Notes

Storage: Allow leftovers to cool before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Make Ahead: You can prepare the apple and onion mixture in advance, then just sear the pork chops right before serving. Flavor Enhancements: Add some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunchy texture and nutty flavor.