Tender Pork Chops Apples Bacon: 2 Sensational Bites

Pork Chops Apples Bacon has always been my go-to for a truly comforting and delicious meal, especially when the weather turns cooler. I remember the first time I tried making this dish, a recipe for pork chops with apples and bacon shared by a friend. The aroma that filled my kitchen was incredible – the savory scent of sizzling bacon mingling with the sweet perfume of apples and the rich pork was pure magic. This one-pan wonder is so satisfying, and the way the apples soften and the bacon gets perfectly crispy makes every bite a delight. Let’s whip up this amazing pork chops apples bacon dinner idea together!

Why You’ll Love This Pork Chops Apples Bacon

• It’s a complete meal all in one pan!
• The combination of sweet apples, savory bacon, and juicy pork is irresistible.
• This easy pork chops and bacon recipe is perfect for weeknights.
• The crispy sage adds an unexpected gourmet touch.
• It’s a fantastic example of sweet and savory pork chops apples bacon done right.
• The apple cider Dijon pan sauce is a flavor explosion.
• This dish is pure pork chops apples bacon comfort food.
• Impress your family with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Pork Chops Apples Bacon

Here’s what you’ll need to create this amazing pork chops apples and bacon recipe:

• 2 large thick-cut bone-in pork chops (approx. 10-12 ounces each) – the bone adds wonderful flavor and moisture
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – essential for bringing out the best in the pork
• 5 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped – this is where that irresistible savory flavor comes from
• 10 leaves fresh sage – these get wonderfully crispy and add a unique herbal note
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed) – just a touch to help sear the chops if the bacon drippings aren’t enough
• 1 large apple, cored and cut into wedges – I love using Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for that perfect sweet and tart balance
• 1 large shallot, sliced – adds a delicate oniony sweetness to the sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped – thyme pairs beautifully with pork and apples
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional) – this helps thicken the sauce for that perfect consistency
• 1/4 cup dry white wine – adds depth and helps deglaze the pan
• 1 1/4 cups apple cider – the base of our tangy-sweet pan sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – for a little zing and complexity in the sauce
• Toasted hazelnuts, for garnish – a lovely crunch to finish
• Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish – for a pop of color and fresh flavor

How to Make Pork Chops Apples Bacon

1. Step 1: First things first, grab your pork chops and pat them really dry with paper towels. This is key for a good sear! Season them generously all over with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Step 2: Place the chopped bacon in a cold, large oven-safe skillet. Turn the heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is nice and crisp. While the bacon cooks, carefully fry the fresh sage leaves in the drippings until they’re also crispy, about 30-60 seconds. Remove both the bacon and sage to a paper towel-lined plate and set them aside.
3. Step 3: If there’s more than a tablespoon of bacon drippings left, carefully drain off the excess. If not, you’re good to go! Add the apple wedges to the skillet. Increase the heat to high and sear the seasoned pork chops for about 1-2 minutes per side until they have a beautiful golden-brown crust. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside with the bacon and sage.
4. Step 4: Lower the heat back to medium. Add the sliced shallots and chopped thyme to the skillet. Cook, stirring often, for about 3 minutes until the shallots have softened and become fragrant.
5. Step 5: Now, let’s make that amazing sauce! If you’re using flour for a thicker sauce, sprinkle it over the apple and shallot mixture and stir to coat everything. Cook for about 1 minute.
6. Step 6: Pour in the dry white wine. As it bubbles, use your spoon to scrape up all those delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan – that’s where tons of flavor are hiding! Let the wine reduce for about 1 minute.
7. Step 7: Stir in the apple cider and Dijon mustard. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
8. Step 8: Nestle the seared pork chops back into the skillet, nestling them amongst the apples. Cover the skillet loosely with a lid or foil. Let it simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) on an instant-read thermometer. This is how you get perfectly cooked, juicy pork chops.
9. Step 9: Once the pork is done, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the pork chops immediately, spooning the apples and the rich pan sauce over the top. Garnish generously with the reserved crispy bacon, the fried sage leaves, toasted hazelnuts, and a sprinkle of fresh thyme. This makes for a truly memorable pork chops apples bacon dinner!

Pro Tips for the Best Pork Chops Apples Bacon

To elevate your pork chops with apples and bacon from good to absolutely unforgettable, try these tips I’ve picked up over the years. They really make a difference in texture and flavor!

• Always start your bacon in a cold pan. This allows the fat to render slowly and evenly, resulting in super crispy bacon bits.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the pork chops. Give them space so they brown beautifully instead of steaming.
• Patting the pork chops completely dry before searing is crucial for achieving that golden-brown crust.
• If you don’t have fresh sage, a pinch of dried sage can work in a pinch, but fresh is really best for that delightful crispiness.

What’s the secret to perfect Pork Chops Apples Bacon?

The real secret to this best pork chops apples bacon recipe is the balance of flavors and textures. Searing the pork chops well, rendering the bacon perfectly crisp, and creating that slightly sweet and tangy pan sauce ties it all together beautifully.

Can I make Pork Chops Apples Bacon ahead of time?

You can prep some components ahead! Cook the bacon and sage a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also chop the apples and shallots. However, I recommend searing the pork and making the sauce just before serving for the best results.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pork Chops Apples Bacon?

A common pitfall is overcooking the pork chops, which makes them dry. Use an instant-read thermometer and aim for 145°F (63°C). Also, don’t skip patting the chops dry before searing – that’s vital for browning. Finally, make sure to scrape up all those browned bits from the pan for the richest sauce.

The aroma of this dish alone is enough to make your mouth water, but what do you serve alongside these incredible Pork Chops Apples Bacon? I love keeping the meal comforting and hearty. A simple side of creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy roasted sweet potatoes is always a winner, soaking up that delicious pan sauce beautifully. For a lighter touch, a simple green salad with a vinaigrette or some steamed green beans with toasted almonds offers a nice contrast. This pork chops apples bacon pairing is truly versatile, making it perfect for a holiday meal or a cozy weeknight dinner. You can find more inspiration for delicious side dishes to complement your meal.

Nutrition Facts for Pork Chops Apples Bacon

This recipe for pork chops apples bacon is a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving:

• Calories: 453 kcal
• Fat: 29 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 14 g
• Sodium: 391 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your pork chops with apples and bacon.

How to Store and Reheat Pork Chops Apples Bacon

Leftovers of this fantastic pork chops apples bacon dinner are a treat! Once the dish has cooled down to room temperature, transfer any remaining pork chops and sauce into an airtight container. You can store these delicious leftovers in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooled pork chops and sauce in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, the best way to reheat is gently. You can warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a tablespoon or two of water or apple cider if the sauce seems thick. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a covered oven-safe dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. For more great recipes, check out the latest recipes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pork Chops Apples Bacon

What kind of apples are best for Pork Chops Apples Bacon?

For the best flavor in this pork chops with caramelized apples and bacon dish, I recommend using apples that hold their shape and have a good balance of sweet and tart. Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith apples are my top choices. They soften beautifully without turning to mush, providing a delightful texture contrast.

Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?

Yes, you can certainly use boneless pork chops, but I find that bone-in chops yield a juicier, more flavorful result. If you opt for boneless, look for thick-cut ones (at least 1 inch thick) and adjust the cooking time as they may cook a bit faster. Keep an eye on the internal temperature to ensure they reach 145°F. For a similar flavor profile with chicken, consider this Garlic Honey Lime Chicken recipe.

What if I don’t have apple cider?

No apple cider? Don’t worry! You can substitute it with an equal amount of apple juice, though it might be a touch sweeter. For a less sweet option, you could use chicken broth or vegetable broth, and perhaps add a tiny splash of apple cider vinegar to mimic the tanginess. This ensures your pork chops applesauce and bacon still turns out delicious.

How do I make the sauce richer for my pork chops apples bacon?

If you want an even richer sauce for your pork chops apples bacon pairing, try finishing it with a tablespoon of butter right at the end, swirling it in off the heat. You could also add a splash of heavy cream for extra silkiness. Some people also find success by whisking in a bit of brown sugar or maple syrup if they prefer a sweeter sauce profile. For another rich sauce option, explore Spicy Herb Butter Sauce.

Variations of Pork Chops Apples Bacon You Can Try

This classic dish is wonderfully adaptable! Here are a few ways to switch up your pork chops apples bacon dinner ideas:

• For a Gluten-Free Version: Skip the all-purpose flour in the sauce. Instead, you can thicken it with a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) added in Step 7, or simply let the sauce reduce naturally for a thinner consistency. This keeps the delicious flavors of your pork chops with apples and bacon intact.
• Baked Pork Chops Apples and Bacon: If you prefer not to use the stovetop method, you can adapt this into a fantastic baked dish. Sear the pork chops first, then arrange them in a baking dish with the apples, shallots, and bacon. Pour the sauce mixture over everything and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through.
• Spice it Up: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the shallots and thyme in Step 4. This adds a subtle warmth that complements the sweet and savory notes of the sweet and savory pork chops apples bacon beautifully.
• Caramelized Apples: For an even deeper flavor, caramelize your apples. Sauté them in butter before adding them to the skillet with the pork chops. This brings out their natural sweetness and adds a lovely depth to the pork chops with caramelized apples and bacon.

Tender Pork Chops Apples Bacon: 2 Sensational Bites

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• Author: basmer1517
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This one-pan meal features juicy seared pork chops simmered in a tangy-sweet apple cider and Dijon pan sauce with sautéed apples, crispy bacon, and fried sage. It’s a hearty, comforting dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large thick-cut bone-in pork chops (approx. 10–12 ounces each)
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 5 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 10 leaves fresh sage
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
• 1 large apple, cored and cut into wedges
• 1 large shallot, sliced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional)
• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• 1 1/4 cups apple cider
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Toasted hazelnuts, for garnish
• Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Pat pork chops dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Cook chopped bacon in a cold skillet over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon and sage leaves to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving drippings.
3. Fry sage leaves in the drippings until crisp. Remove and set aside with bacon.
4. Add olive oil if needed. Increase heat to high and sear pork chops for 1-2 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
5. Lower heat to medium. Sauté apple wedges for 1-2 minutes until slightly softened.
6. Add shallots and thyme; cook for about 3 minutes until shallots soften.
7. Sprinkle flour over the apple mixture (if using) and stir to coat.
8. Pour in white wine, increase heat to medium-high, and scrape up browned bits. Reduce for 1 minute.
9. Stir in apple cider and Dijon mustard. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.
10. Nestle pork chops into the sauce. Cover loosely and simmer gently until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
11. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve pork chops with apples and sauce, topped with crispy bacon, toasted hazelnuts, and fresh thyme.

Notes

• Bone-in pork chops are recommended for juiciness.
• Ensure pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F to avoid overcooking.
• Do not slice apples too thinly to maintain their structure.
• Start bacon in a cold pan for even rendering and crispiness.
• Omit flour for a thinner sauce or use gluten-free flour or cornstarch slurry for a gluten-free option.
• Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples provide a good balance of sweet and tart.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: One-Pan Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 453 kcal
• Sugar: 14 g
• Sodium: 391 mg
• Fat: 29 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Cholesterol: 88 mg

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