Apple Butter Pork Chops Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting and unique dinner idea, trust me, this Apple Butter Pork Chops Recipe is going to blow your mind. It’s that perfect balance of savory pork chops paired with a sweet-tangy apple butter sauce that’s irresistibly good. I absolutely love how simple it is to whip up yet delivers that cozy, fall-flavor vibe anytime you want. Grab your skillet, and let me show you how to make this fan-freaking-tastic meal that my family practically begs me to make again and again.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Apple Butter Pork Chops Recipe is in the balance—juicy pork chops paired with the sweet, slightly tangy apple butter glaze. I always pick apples that have a nice tartness like Granny Smith or Braeburn to cut through the sweetness, but feel free to experiment with what you like.

• Boneless center-cut pork chop filets: Thick and juicy works best; I love using about 1-inch thick chops so they stay tender and flavorful.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural pork flavor.
• Unsalted butter: Divided into cooking the chops and sautéing the apples; butter adds richness and helps build that perfect sauce base.
• Apples: No need to peel; the slices hold together well and add a subtle tartness that balances the sweetness.
• Apple butter: This is the star! It’s concentrated and full of apple flavor; you can use a bit more if you want it sweeter.
• Brown sugar: For extra caramelized sweetness in the sauce.
• Ancho chili powder or chili powder: Just a touch gives a subtle warmth and depth—don’t skip this, it’s magic.
• Heavy cream: Adds creaminess and rounds out the apple butter sauce perfectly.

Variations

One of the best things about this Apple Butter Pork Chops Recipe is how easy it is to tweak for your taste or dietary needs. I often play around with different chili powder blends or swap the apples for whatever’s fresh and in season.

• Dairy-Free Version: When my friend went vegan for a week, I swapped the butter with vegan margarine and used coconut cream instead of heavy cream—worked like a charm, still creamy and delicious.
• Spice it Up: I sometimes add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for more heat and smokiness; it adds another layer of flavor that my husband especially loves.
• Different Apples: Using sweeter apples like Fuji or Gala results in a more mellow sauce; tart apples bring a nice zing, so choose what you enjoy most.
• Make it a Sheet Pan Meal: For a no-fuss dinner, toss the pork chops and apple slices on a sheet pan and bake; just add the apple butter mixture near the end for glazing.

How to Make Apple Butter Pork Chops Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear the Pork Chops

Start by seasoning both sides of your pork chops generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. I like to press the seasoning in a little so it sticks well. Next, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Once the butter is foaming, add the pork chops and sear them for about 3 minutes on each side. You want a nice golden crust. Once browned, transfer the chops to a plate and let them rest—it helps keep them juicy later on.

Step 2: Cook the Apples and Build the Sauce

Using the same skillet (no need to clean it—those browned bits are flavor gold!), melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Toss in your apple slices and cook them for about 5 minutes until they’re soft but still hold their shape. Then stir in the apple butter, brown sugar, and ancho chili powder. It might look thick at first, but as it heats and you add the cream, it will transform into this luscious, silky sauce that smells like fall in a pan. Bring it to a gentle boil to meld those flavors together.

Step 3: Finish Cooking the Pork Chops in the Sauce

Now, nestle the pork chops back into the skillet right on top of that apple mixture, making sure the bottoms are touching the pan for even cooking. Spoon some of the apple butter sauce over each chop. Cook the chops for about 4 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F — this is key for juicy, perfectly cooked pork. Keep spooning the sauce over the chops as they finish cooking to really infuse all that flavor.

Serve these beauties hot with a generous spoonful of that luscious apple and cream sauce draping the top. I promise, this is going to be a new go-to!

How to Serve Apple Butter Pork Chops Recipe

Garnishes

I love finishing this dish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or chopped parsley—it adds a lovely pop of color and a bit of herbaceous brightness to all that sweetness. Toasted pecans or walnuts also give a satisfying crunch and nutty contrast that’s simply divine.

Side Dishes

When I serve this, I usually pair it with garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to soak up that amazing sauce. Roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips or even a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special dinner, I’ve layered the pork chops over a bed of sautéed kale and drizzled extra apple butter sauce on top, then garnished with crisp apple slices and microgreens. It looks so pretty and feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to pull off.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens up slightly but reheats beautifully. Just give it a gentle stir while warming to bring back that silky texture.

Freezing

Freezing works great for this recipe! I portion out the pork chops with the sauce in freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave—it’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights.

Reheating

To keep the chops juicy when reheating, I cover the pan and warm on low heat, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce gets too thick. This keeps the pork tender and the sauce luscious.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Apple Butter Pork Chops Recipe has a special place in my heart because it makes weeknight dinners feel like a celebration. The mix of sweet, savory, creamy, and just a touch of spice is so inviting, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. I’d urge you to try it soon—once you do, you’ll keep coming back because it just hits the spot every single time. Trust me, this one’s a keeper!

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