Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy and flavorful meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Then look no further! This baked pork chop and apple recipe is your answer. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering juicy pork chops perfectly complemented by sweet and tart apples. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick dinner idea that the whole family will love. Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with this simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 large apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala recommended), cored and thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or apple cider
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This simple step helps them brown nicely. Season both sides of the pork chops generously with salt, pepper, sage, and thyme.
Step 2: Arrange and Bake
In a baking dish, arrange the sliced apples in a single layer. Place the seasoned pork chops on top of the apples. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the pork chops and apples. Pour the chicken broth or apple cider around the pork chops and apples in the baking dish. This helps keep everything moist and adds flavor.
Step 3: Baking Time
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and are cooked through. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your pork chops. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked to a safe temperature.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat. Serve the pork chops directly from the baking dish, with the delicious apple slices alongside.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pork Chops:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the pork chops in the baking dish for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure your pork chops are cooked to perfection and safe to eat.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations. Rosemary or garlic powder would be delicious additions!
Variations:
- Add some onions: Thinly sliced onions can be added to the baking dish along with the apples for extra flavor and sweetness.
- Use different apples: Experiment with your favorite apple varieties for a unique taste experience.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. This makes it a complete and satisfying healthy meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This baked pork chop and apple recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and easy recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. It's a quick dinner idea that's both healthy and satisfying, making it a great addition to your repertoire of best recipes. Enjoy!