Baked Pork Chops with Apples

A brief sear, then the oven, keeps the chops from drying out while the apples soften. Pull them at 145°F (63°C) and let them rest for 3 minutes.

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Ingredients

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• 4 bone-in pork chops, about 3/4 inch thick
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 apples, sliced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/4 cup water

How to make it

1. Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the chops with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chops for 2 to 3 minutes per side. Transfer them to a plate.
3. Add the apples and onion to the skillet and stir for 2 minutes. Whisk in the Dijon, maple syrup, thyme, and water.
4. Nestle the chops back in. Bake for 12 to 16 minutes, until the center of each chop reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Rest for 3 minutes before serving with the apples and pan juices.

Substitutions

• Pears can replace the apples.
• Boneless chops work. They cook faster, so check the temperature sooner.

Storage

Refrigerate within two hours for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to 165°F (74°C) so the edges do not dry out.

Pan and tools

• An oven-safe skillet
• An instant-read thermometer
• The oven at 400°F (200°C)

What to prep first

Season the chops and slice the apples and onion before you sear. Once the skillet goes into the oven you are mostly waiting.

What to serve with it

The apples stand in for a sweet side. Mashed potatoes or buttered noodles fit if you want something more filling. A sharp green salad cuts the maple.

Leftovers for lunch

Slice the chop and reheat it gently with the apples, covered, just until the pork is hot. It dries out if you blast it. Eat it within three days.

If it goes wrong

Chops over 145°F (63°C) by a lot were left in too long. Thin chops need an early check. Thick chops need the longer end of the time. Apples that are still crunchy were cut too thick or added too late.

Make it part of your week

Save this recipe in the weekly planner so the grocery list is ready before you shop.