Prepare to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this mouthwatering Pork and Creamy Apple Sauce recipe! Imagine tender, perfectly seared pork chops draped in a luxurious, velvety sauce that combines the sweetness of ripe apples with the rich complexity of Dijon mustard and cream. This dish isn't just a meal—it's a flavor adventure that will have your family and guests begging for seconds, promising restaurant-quality dining right in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork chops
- 2 apples, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove pork chops from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Pat pork chops dry with paper towels and season generously on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering and hot.
- Carefully place seasoned pork chops in the hot skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove pork chops from skillet and let them rest on a clean plate, tented with aluminum foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add chopped apples and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Reduce heat to medium and add Dijon mustard, stirring to combine with the apples.
- Pour in heavy cream, stirring continuously to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Simmer the sauce for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly and apples are tender.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Pour the creamy apple sauce over the rested pork chops and serve immediately.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your pork chops come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution and prevent tough meat.
- Dry Seasoning Matters: Pat the pork chops completely dry before seasoning to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked pork, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to guarantee juicy, safe-to-eat meat.
- Don't Rush the Sauce: Simmer the apple cream sauce slowly to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to reach the ideal thickness.
- Choose the Right Apples: Opt for slightly tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp that hold their shape and provide a nice flavor contrast.
- Rest Your Meat: Always let the pork chops rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 120mg
