Description

Craving a comforting, homey meal that pairs juicy pork chops with a sweet-tangy applesauce glaze? The Pork Chops and Applesauce, with 32 glowing reviews, is your answer! This dish features bone-in pork loin chops baked with a simple yet flavorful mix of applesauce, brown sugar, and savory seasonings, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory

Ingredients

To make Pork Chops and Applesauce for 4 servings, you’ll need these key ingredients. Each one adds a layer of flavor or texture to this comforting dish:

Bone-In Pork Loin Chops (4, ½-inch thick, 7 oz each): Juicy, flavorful protein base.
Unsweetened Applesauce (1 cup): Provides a sweet, fruity base for the glaze.
Packed Brown Sugar (¼ cup): Adds caramel-like sweetness.
Barbecue Sauce (1 tbsp): Brings smoky, tangy depth.
Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp): Adds savory, umami flavor.
Garlic Clove (1, minced): Provides aromatic, savory depth.
Salt (½ tsp): Enhances overall flavor.
Pepper (½ tsp): Offers a mild kick.

Substitutions and Variations:

Pork Chops: Swap with boneless pork chops, chicken thighs, or tofu steaks for a vegetarian option (adjust cooking time).
Applesauce: Use homemade applesauce or sweetened applesauce (reduce brown sugar to 2 tbsp).
Brown Sugar: Substitute with maple syrup, honey, or agave nectar.
Barbecue Sauce: Replace with ketchup or a smoky hot sauce for a different twist.
Worcestershire Sauce: Use soy sauce or tamari (gluten-free) for similar umami.
Add-Ons: Include sliced apples, onions, or fresh herbs like thyme for extra flavor.
Gluten-Free: Ensure barbecue and Worcestershire sauces are gluten-free (check labels).

Why These Ingredients Matter: The pork chops provide hearty protein, while the applesauce and brown sugar create a sweet, glossy glaze. The barbecue and Worcestershire sauces add savory depth, and the garlic brings aroma, making this a balanced, flavorful meal perfect for comfort food lovers.

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat oven to 350°F.
Place 4 bone-in pork loin chops (½-inch thick, 7 oz each) in a large cast-iron or ovenproof skillet.

Tip: Pat pork chops dry with paper towels for better browning and glaze adhesion.

Step 2: Make the Applesauce Glaze

In a small bowl, mix 1 cup unsweetened applesauce, ¼ cup packed brown sugar, 1 tbsp barbecue sauce, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 minced garlic clove, ½ tsp salt, and ½ tsp pepper until well combined.
Spoon the glaze evenly over the pork chops, ensuring they are fully coated.

Tip: Stir the glaze thoroughly to dissolve the brown sugar and distribute flavors evenly.

Step 3: Bake

Bake, uncovered, at 350°F for 20–25 minutes, until a meat thermometer reads 145°F (medium doneness).
Let the chops rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juices.

Tip: Check the internal temperature in the thickest part of the chop, avoiding the bone, to avoid overcooking.

Step 4: Serve

Transfer the pork chops to plates, spooning any remaining glaze from the skillet over the top.
Serve hot.

Tip: Serve immediately to enjoy the juicy pork and glossy glaze at their best.