Ah, pork chops and applesauce—just like Peter Brady’s favorite combo! There’s something irresistible about the savory, juicy goodness of pork chops paired with the sweet, tangy embrace of applesauce. It’s a dish that feels like a cozy autumn afternoon, where each bite is a warm hug, and the thought of leftovers is just as exciting as the meal itself.
Steps
- Season the pork loin chops with a blend of paprika, garlic powder, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and freshly cracked pepper.
- Lightly coat the seasoned chops with flour, ensuring any excess is shaken off.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add butter once the pan is hot.
- When the butter has melted, place the chops in the skillet and cook for about 3 1/2 to 4 minutes on one side.
- Flip the chops and continue cooking for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, until they reach an internal temperature of 145° F.
- Remove the chops from the skillet and allow them to rest on a platter for three minutes before serving.
Ingredients
- 4 thin, 14 oz boneless pork loin chops, center cut
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh cracked pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon butter
- 2 tablespoons flour (optional, omit for gluten-free)
- 1/2 cup applesauce (homemade or store-bought)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 720 kcal | Carbohydrates: 19.2 g | Protein: 81.2 g | Fat: 32.8 g | Saturated Fat: 14 g | Cholesterol: 212 mg | Sodium: 117.2 mg | Fiber: 1.2 g | Sugar: 6 g
FAQ
- Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless?
- Yes, you can use either boneless or bone-in pork chops for this recipe. Just ensure you don’t overcook them to keep the meat tender and juicy.
- How do I ensure the pork chops stay juicy and don’t dry out?
- To keep the pork chops juicy, cook them to an internal temperature of 145°F and allow them to rest for three minutes before serving.
- Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
- Yes, this recipe can be made gluten-free by omitting the flour. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
- Can I use store-bought applesauce instead of homemade?
- Absolutely, you can use either homemade or store-bought applesauce, depending on your preference and available time.
- What would be a good side dish to serve with these pork chops?
- Buttermilk mashed potatoes and an Autumn Salad with Pears make excellent side dishes to complement the flavors of the pork chops and applesauce.
Tips
- To avoid dry pork chops, ensure they are not overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F, and let them rest for three minutes before serving.
- If you prefer a gluten-free dish, skip the flour coating on the pork chops. They will still be delicious without it.
- Consider using a mix of both boneless and bone-in pork chops. Boneless chops cook quickly, while bone-in can provide more flavor.
- For a balanced meal, serve the pork chops with homemade applesauce, buttermilk mashed potatoes, and a pear autumn salad to capture the essence of fall flavors.
Equipment
- Large skillet – A quality skillet is essential for pan-frying the pork chops.
- Crock pot (slow cooker) – This is used for simmering the homemade applesauce.
