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.
Cookbook Inspiration
Gather the essential tools to prepare flavorful pork chops paired with homemade applesauce for a satisfying meal.
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
