Pork Chops with Apples and Bacon: A Cozy, Flavorful Fall Meal
When it comes to hearty, comforting meals, nothing says fall quite like pork chops paired with apples and smoky bacon. This dish brings together savory and sweet flavors with a touch of tanginess, creating an irresistible combination that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive date-night meal. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare in just one skillet!
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Why Pork, Apples, and Bacon Make the Perfect Trio
The pairing of pork with apples is a classic for a reason. The natural sweetness of the apples balances the savory, rich flavor of the pork, while the bacon adds a smoky depth. Together, these flavors complement each other in a way that feels comforting yet complex, making this dish perfect for the cooler months.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 2 large apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith are great choices), cored and sliced thinly
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup fresh apple cider
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
- Fresh sage leaves
How to Make Pork Chops with Apples and Bacon
Prepare the Pork Chops and Preheat Oven
- Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Set aside while preparing the other ingredients.
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
Cook the Bacon and Sage
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the bacon pieces and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
- Add a handful of sage leaves to the pan. Fry in the bacon drippings until crispy.
- Remove sage from the pan and set aside with the bacon.
Sear the Pork Chops
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the pork chops to the skillet with the bacon grease.
- Sear for 3-4 minutes per side until they’re golden brown.
- Remove the pork chops and set them aside; they don’t need to be cooked through yet, as they’ll finish cooking with the apples and onions.
Sauté the Apples and Onions
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium.
- Add the sliced apples and onions, stirring occasionally, until softened and caramelized, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute.
- Add apple cider and Dijon mustard. Whisk to combine well.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Finish the Pork Chops
- Nestle the pork chops and bacon into the apple mixture.
- Place the skillet into preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes or until chops reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees F.
- Remove from oven and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with crispy sage leaves.
- Pair with mashed potatoes, wild rice, or buttered noodles.
- Here are some perfect side dishes for a complete meal:
Tips for the Best Pork Chops with Apples and Bacon
- Choose the Right Apples: Firm, slightly tart apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work best in this recipe since they hold up well when cooked.
- Cook in One Skillet: Using one skillet not only saves on cleanup but also builds layers of flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Pork: Pork chops can dry out easily, so keep an eye on their internal temperature and aim for 145°F for juicy, tender chops.
Why This Dish is Perfect for Fall
The combination of pork, apples, and bacon embodies the flavors of the season, with a hint of smokiness, sweetness, and warmth. Plus, it’s a dish that comes together quickly and beautifully—ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself, this pork chop recipe brings together comfort and sophistication in every bite. Enjoy!
