Description

Craving a meal that’s both comforting and sophisticated, blending the savory richness of pork chops with the sweet, spiced warmth of apples? The Cinnamon-Apple Pork Chops recipe is your answer! This dish pairs juicy pork chops with a fragrant apple topping spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, finished with a crunch of pecans

Ingredients

To make Cinnamon-Apple Pork Chops for 4 servings, you’ll need these key ingredients. Each one adds flavor, texture, or warmth to this comforting dish:

Butter (2 tbsp, divided): Adds richness to both the pork and apple topping.
Boneless Pork Loin Chops (4, 4 oz each): Tender, lean protein that’s the star of the dish.
Brown Sugar (3 tbsp): Brings caramel-like sweetness to the apple topping.
Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp): Infuses warm, spicy notes.
Ground Nutmeg (½ tsp): Adds a cozy, earthy depth.
Salt (¼ tsp): Enhances the flavors of the apples and spices.
Medium Tart Apples (4, thinly sliced): Provides a sweet-tart, juicy topping.
Chopped Pecans (2 tbsp): Adds a nutty crunch for texture.

Substitutions and Variations:

Pork Chops: Swap with bone-in pork chops (adjust cooking time), chicken breasts, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Butter: Use olive oil or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
Apples: Try sweet apples (like Honeycrisp) or pears for a different flavor.
Brown Sugar: Substitute with maple syrup or honey for a natural sweetener.
Pecans: Replace with walnuts, almonds, or omit for a nut-free version.
Spices: Add a pinch of allspice or ginger for extra warmth, or use pumpkin pie spice for a shortcut.
Add-Ons: Stir in a splash of apple cider or a sprinkle of dried cranberries to the apple mixture.

Why These Ingredients Matter: The pork provides lean protein, while the apples and pecans add fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats. The spices and brown sugar create a warm, comforting flavor, making this a balanced, satisfying meal that’s perfect for fall or any cozy evening.

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pork Chops

In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat.
Add 4 boneless pork loin chops (4 oz each) and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until a thermometer reads 145°F (medium doneness).
Remove the chops to a platter and cover with foil to keep warm.

Tip: Pat the pork chops dry before cooking for a better sear, and avoid overcrowding the skillet for even browning.

Step 2: Prepare the Spice Mixture

In a small bowl, mix 3 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, ½ tsp ground nutmeg, and ¼ tsp salt.

Tip: Mix the spices while the pork cooks to save time.

Step 3: Cook the Apple Topping

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp butter, 4 thinly sliced medium tart apples, 2 tbsp chopped pecans, and the brown sugar-spice mixture.
Cook and stir over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until the apples are tender and coated in the spiced sauce.

Tip: Slice apples thinly and uniformly for even cooking, and stir gently to keep their shape.

Step 4: Serve

Place the pork chops on plates or a serving platter.
Spoon the warm apple mixture over the chops, ensuring each gets a generous portion of apples and pecans.
Serve immediately.

Tip: Drizzle any remaining pan juices over the chops for extra flavor.