Description
This Apple Butter Pork Chops recipe features tender pork chops cooked in a rich, creamy apple butter sauce infused with warm spices and sautéed apples. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes this dish a comforting and elegant meal perfect for any season.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Pork Chops
- 1 lb. boneless center-cut pork chop filets (about 2 filets)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Apple Butter Sauce
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 apples, cored and sliced (no need to peel), Granny Smith recommended
- 7 1/2 oz. apple butter (1/2 jar), or more if desired (applesauce can be used as substitute)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp ancho chili powder or regular chili powder
- 1/3 cup heavy cream, room temperature
Instructions
- Season Pork Chops: Season both sides of the pork chop filets generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the natural flavor of the meat.
- Sear Pork Chops: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and cook for 3 minutes on each side until nicely browned. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside to rest on a plate while you prepare the apple butter sauce.
- Cook Apples: Using the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the sliced apples and sauté for about 5 minutes until they are softened and slightly caramelized.
- Make Sauce: Stir in the apple butter, brown sugar, and ancho chili powder to the skillet with the apples. Mix thoroughly to combine the flavors. Then, pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously as the sauce heats up and begins to lightly boil.
- Finish Cooking Pork: Return the pork chops to the skillet, arranging them so the bottom of each chop makes direct contact with the skillet. Spoon about a tablespoon of the apple butter sauce onto each side of the pork chops. Cook for an additional 4 minutes on each side or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F, indicating it is properly cooked.
- Serve: Serve the pork chops hot, topped with the apple mixture spooned over them for a deliciously rich and flavorful meal.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute unsalted butter with vegan butter and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- Choose sweeter or tarter apple varieties based on your preference; Granny Smith provides a nice tart contrast.
- Adjust the amount of apple butter according to your desired sweetness level, but keep in mind the sauce can become quite sweet with too much added.
- Ensure the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F for safe and juicy results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pork chop with sauce
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
