Oh, the crisp air of autumn! It always makes me think of cozy sweaters and warm, comforting meals. There’s just something magical about those fall flavors, isn’t there?
For me, this time of year brings back so many memories of my grandmother’s kitchen. The smell of apples and spices always filled the house. She had a way of turning simple ingredients into something truly special.
That’s why I’m so excited to share this recipe with you today. It’s for my absolute favorite Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops. This dish is pure comfort on a plate.
It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight. Yet, it feels fancy enough for a special dinner. It’s got that perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Just like my grandmother, I love making meals that bring people together. I hope this one helps you create some beautiful memories too.
Why You’ll Love These Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops
I really think you’re going to adore this recipe. It’s become a staple in my home. Here’s why I love making these wonderful chops:
- So Easy to Make: It’s a one-skillet wonder! Less cleanup means more time for you.
- Amazing Flavor: That sweet and tangy apple cider glaze is just incredible. It really makes the pork shine.
- Perfect for Busy Nights: You can have a delicious, cozy dinner on the table fast. It’s ready in about 30 minutes!
- Comfort Food at its Best: This dish feels like a warm hug. It’s hearty and satisfying, especially when the weather cools.
- Impressive Results: Even though it’s simple, it tastes like you fussed all day. Your family will love these tender, glazed pork chops.
Gathering Your Ingredients for Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops
Okay, let’s talk ingredients! One thing I’ve learned is that great food starts with great components. For these amazing apple cider glazed pork chops, we’re using simple things. Things you probably already have or can easily find at the store. Getting everything ready before you start cooking makes the whole process so much smoother. Trust me on this one; it’s a game-changer!
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops
Here are the stars of our show for these delicious pork chops. We want about one-inch thick bone-in pork chops for the best results. Make sure to grab good quality apple cider, not apple juice. Unsalted butter is also key. It lets us control the seasoning perfectly. These few things really make the glaze sing!
How to Prepare Your Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops
Now, let’s get to the fun part: cooking! Don’t worry, I’ll walk you through each step. It’s simpler than you might think. We’re going to build layers of flavor. This will give you those tender, juicy pork chops with that amazing apple cider glaze. Just follow along, and you’ll be so proud of what you make!
First, pat those pork chops really dry with paper towels. This helps them get a beautiful sear. Then, season both sides well with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy here; seasoning is important! Heat your olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet. I love my cast iron for this. Make sure it’s good and hot over medium-high heat. Now, let’s sear!
Achieving Golden Brown Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops
This step is crucial for flavor! Place your seasoned pork chops into the hot skillet. You should hear a nice sizzle. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes per side. We’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown crust. This browning adds so much depth to the dish. It’s called the Maillard reaction. Once they’re golden, take them out. Set them aside on a plate for a moment. Don’t clean the pan!
Crafting the Delicious Apple Cider Glaze
Keep that same skillet on the stove. Reduce the heat down to medium. Now, add the apple cider, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and dried thyme. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Those bits are pure flavor! Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes. It should thicken up nicely. This creates our amazing apple cider glaze.
Finishing Your Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops to Perfection
Once your glaze has thickened, it’s time to bring the pork chops back. Carefully place them back into the skillet with the glaze. Reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid. Let them cook for another 5-7 minutes. This gentle simmer finishes cooking the chops. It also lets them soak up all that wonderful glaze. Use a meat thermometer to check. They should reach 145°F (63°C) internally. Remove the chops. Stir the butter into the glaze until it’s smooth and melted. Spoon that luscious glaze over your chops. Serve them right away!
Tips for Success with Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops
I’ve made these apple cider glazed pork chops countless times. I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way. First, always use a meat thermometer. It’s the best way to ensure your pork chops are perfectly cooked. Aim for 145°F (63°C) for juicy results. Remember, they’ll continue to cook a little after you take them off the heat.
If your pork chops are thicker than one inch, you might need more simmering time. Just keep an eye on that internal temperature. Also, a good heavy-bottomed skillet makes all the difference. Cast iron is my favorite for that even sear. Don’t overcrowd the pan either. Cook in batches if needed. This ensures beautiful browning. These small tips will give you amazing, tender pork chops every time!
Common Questions About Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops
I get a lot of questions about this recipe! It makes me so happy that you’re curious. Cooking is all about learning and trying new things. Here are some of the common questions I hear. I hope these answers help you make your best apple cider glazed pork chops yet!
Can I Use Boneless Chops for Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops?
Yes, you absolutely can! Boneless pork chops will cook faster. So, keep an eye on them. Adjust your cooking times down a bit. They might dry out more easily. Bone-in chops tend to stay juicier. But boneless still make a delicious glazed pork dish.
What Sides Pair Well with Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops?
These flavorful pork chops go great with so many things! I love serving them with roasted sweet potatoes. A simple green salad is also perfect. Mashed potatoes soak up the extra apple cider glaze beautifully. Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts are also wonderful choices.
How Do I Know My Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops Are Cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chop. Make sure it’s not touching the bone. Your pork chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures they are safe and juicy.
Storing and Reheating Your Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops
Sometimes, you might have a little bit left over. That’s totally okay! These apple cider glazed pork chops store really well. Just let any leftovers cool completely. Then, put them in an airtight container. Pop them in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating is easy. I like to warm them gently in a skillet. Add a splash of water or extra apple cider. Cover the pan. Heat over low heat until they are warmed through. You can also use the microwave. Just be careful not to overcook them. We want to keep them juicy!
Estimated Nutritional Information for Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops
I know many of you like to keep track of what you’re eating. So, I’ve included some estimated nutritional information. Please remember, these are just estimates. Things like specific brands or slight changes in ingredients can affect the final numbers. But this should give you a good idea per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Share Your Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops Experience!
I really hope you loved making these apple cider glazed pork chops! Your kitchen probably smells amazing right now. I’d love to hear all about your cooking adventure. Did you try any new sides? How did your family like them? Please leave a comment below. You can also rate the recipe. And don’t forget to share your delicious creations on social media! Tag us at #911Recipes. Happy cooking, friends!
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Amazing Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops: A 30-Minute Fall Treat
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: None
Description
This recipe delivers tender pork chops coated in a rich, sweet, and tangy apple cider glaze. It is a perfect fall-inspired entree that comes together easily in one skillet.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove chops from skillet and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add apple cider, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and thyme to the skillet. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Cook the glaze for 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.
- Return pork chops to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Remove pork chops from skillet. Stir butter into the glaze until melted and smooth.
- Spoon the apple cider glaze over the pork chops and serve immediately.
Notes
- For thicker pork chops, increase the simmering time in the glaze.
- Ensure pork chops are fully cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Serve with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pork chop with glaze
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
