Savory Apple Butter Pork Chops

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 20 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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If you're looking for a dish that feels like fall on a plate, these Savory Apple Butter Pork Chops are just what you need. With a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, it's like an autumnal hug for your taste buds.

Ingredients for Savory Apple Butter Pork Chops

Pork chops are the star of this dish. Opt for boneless ones that are about an inch thick for the best results—they cook evenly and retain moisture. Salt and black pepper provide the basic seasoning, while smoked paprika adds a hint of warmth and depth. Olive oil is used for searing, adding a fruity richness.

Apple butter is the secret weapon, bringing in a concentrated apple flavor with a touch of sweetness. Apple cider vinegar adds acidity, balancing the richness of the pork. Dijon mustard offers a subtle tang and complexity. Fresh thyme adds an aromatic, earthy note, while garlic powder and onion powder layer on more flavor. A dab of unsalted butter rounds it all out, and thinly sliced apple adds texture and freshness.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a perfect sear, make sure the skillet is hot before adding the pork chops.
  • If your apple butter is too thick, thin it with a bit of water or more apple cider vinegar.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops are cooked to at least 145°F.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or a simple arugula salad. For a heartier meal, add a side of roasted root vegetables or a warm grain like farro or quinoa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bone-in pork chops?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time as bone-in chops can take longer to cook through.
What if I don't have apple butter?
You can substitute with a mix of applesauce and a bit of brown sugar, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it with the chops just before serving.

Savory Apple Butter Pork Chops Recipe Walkthrough

Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, pressing the spices into the meat. This step is crucial for flavor.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the pork chops. Let them cook undisturbed for about 4–5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside.

Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, combine apple butter, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir everything together, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Return the pork chops to the skillet, turning them so they're well-coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Add the sliced apples to the skillet. Cook them for about 3 minutes, or until they are slightly softened and caramelized. This step adds a sweet crunch that complements the pork perfectly. Serve immediately with the sauce and apples draped over the chops.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Combines sweet and savory for a unique flavor profile.
  • Uses simple ingredients found in most kitchens.
  • Great way to use up apple butter and fresh apples.
  • Impressive enough for guests, easy enough for family dinner.

Ingredients

4 boneless pork chops, each about 1 inch thick
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup apple butter
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 apple, thinly sliced

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove pork chops from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add apple butter, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Return the pork chops to the skillet, turning to coat them well with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Add the sliced apples to the skillet and cook for another 3 minutes, until the apples are slightly softened and caramelized. Remove from heat and serve immediately with the sauce and apples.

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