Get ready to revolutionize your meal prep game with this mouthwatering Apple Spice Pork Chop recipe that combines the perfect balance of savory and sweet. Imagine tender, golden-brown pork chops infused with warm spices, topped with caramelized apples and a luscious pan sauce that will make your taste buds dance. This isn't just another boring meal prep recipe – it's a culinary adventure that brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen in just 35 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 2 apples, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup apple cider
Instructions
- Remove pork chops from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Pat pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better sear.
- Season both sides of pork chops generously with salt, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg, pressing the spices into the meat to create a flavorful crust.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and is hot but not smoking.
- Carefully place seasoned pork chops in the hot skillet, cooking 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 rest on a cutting board, tented with foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add sliced apples and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften and caramelize.
- Pour apple cider into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, and let simmer for 2 minutes to create a quick pan sauce.
- Plate pork chops and top with caramelized apple slices and pan sauce.
- For meal prep, divide pork chops and apples into four equal containers, cover, and refrigerate. Consume within 3-4 days.
Tips
- • Temperature is key! Always let your pork chops sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.• Pat those chops dry! Removing excess moisture is the secret to achieving that gorgeous golden-brown crust that seals in all the delicious flavors.• Don't overcrowd the pan – cook pork chops in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and create a perfect sear.• Use a meat thermometer to check for the perfect 145°F internal temperature – this guarantees juicy, perfectly cooked pork every time.• The pan sauce is liquid gold – make sure to scrape up those browned bits for maximum flavor!• For best meal prep results, store in airtight containers and consume within 3-4 days to maintain optimal taste and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 297kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 26g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 80mg
