Layered Apple Pork Chop Bake

Everyone Needs a Delicious, Easy Dinner Recipe

Finding new and exciting dinner recipes can often feel daunting, especially when you’re short on time or inspiration. Too often, dinner becomes a chore, leading to meals that lack flavor or excitement. That’s why having a collection of reliable, go-to recipes is essential. This Layered Apple Pork Chop Bake is one of those recipes that you’ll find yourself returning to time and again.

This dish is perfect year-round, but there’s something about the fall season that makes it especially appealing. Cooking with fresh apples and hearty pork chops really captures the essence of autumn. This delightful layered dish combines sweet apples with savory pork, topped with a spiced brown sugar glaze that elevates it to a new level of deliciousness. You can adjust the sweetness to your preference, but we find that 1/4 to 1/3 cup of brown sugar hits the sweet spot. For the best flavor, use a mix of Granny Smith and honeycrisp or Fuji apples for a sweet-tart balance.

Once you’ve layered everything and whipped up the quick glaze, simply pour it over the pork and apples, and pop the dish in the oven. The result is a surprisingly delicious meal that will get you in the mood for fall festivities. It’s a win-win!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a game-changer for several reasons:

• It’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.
• The combination of sweet apples and savory pork chops is irresistible.
• The spiced brown sugar glaze adds an autumnal touch that will delight your taste buds.
• It’s a versatile dish that can be adjusted to suit your personal taste preferences.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large baking dish
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board
• Oven

Ingredients

• 4-6 boneless pork chops
• 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
• 1/4-1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, divided
• 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch (optional)
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
• Fresh rosemary, minced, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350º F.
2. Place the sliced apples at the bottom of a large baking dish, and sprinkle them with 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg.
3. Lay the pork chops on top of the apple slices and season generously with salt and pepper.
4. In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the butter and brown sugar. Whisk until melted and well combined, then stir in the remaining cinnamon and nutmeg.
5. If you prefer a thicker glaze, whisk in the cornstarch.
6. Pour the glaze over the pork chops and apple slices.
7. Bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through.
8. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh rosemary, and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Ensure the pork chops are of equal thickness for even cooking.
• Mix different apple varieties for a more complex flavor profile.
• Let the pork rest for a few minutes after baking to retain its juices.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For a touch of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze.
• If you prefer a more savory dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar and add more spices like thyme or sage.
• Pair this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional content per serving:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use bone-in pork chops? Yes, bone-in pork chops can also be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

What type of apples work best? A mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and honeycrisp or Fuji works best for a balanced flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it when ready to serve.

Conclusion

This Layered Apple Pork Chop Bake is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of fall to your table. It’s easy to prepare, full of comforting flavors, and sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! We’d love to hear your feedback and any variations you might have tried. Enjoy your meal and happy cooking!