Pork Chops and Applesauce

It’s no secret that pork and apple go beautifully together, but too often we save the sauce for the side. This pork chop and applesauce recipe smothers the chops in sauce from the start so the sugars can caramelize and the flavors intensify. It might be the tastiest, most succulent pork chop you’ve had.

If you’re making your own applesauce, try this recipe for pork chops and applesauce in the fall, when the fruit is in season. You can experiment freely with spice and sauce combinations, since pork’s neutral flavor gives you a blank canvas to work with—although there’s so little prep involved that “work” is almost too strong a word.

Ingredients for Pork Chops and Applesauce

• Pork chops: Bone-in pork loin chops will pack the most flavor and have the fat cap to keep the meat moist.
• Applesauce: Use unsweetened applesauce, which has a tart, fruity finish.
• Brown sugar: Packed brown sugar adds sweetness to the sauce and seals in the juices.
• Barbecue sauce and Worcestershire sauce: The barbecue sauce contributes a subtle smoky flavor and an additional burst of sweetness, and you don’t want to skip the Worcestershire, because it brings an aromatic, salty umami quality to the sauce.
• Garlic: Mince a clove or two to give the meat some extra flavor.
• Salt and pepper: The salt will showcase the other ingredients and balance the sweetness, while just a pinch of pepper will add a little heat and depth to the dish.

Directions

Step 1: Make the sauce

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Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the pork chops in a large cast-iron or ovenproof skillet. Mix the applesauce, brown sugar, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, salt and pepper in a bowl to make a smooth sauce, then spoon it liberally over the chops.

Step 2: Bake the applesauce pork chops

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Bake the pork chops, uncovered, until a thermometer reads 145°, 20 to 25 minutes. Let the meat stand for five minutes before serving.

Editor’s Tip: Let the pork chops sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before baking so the meat is relaxed and absorbs more sauce.

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Pork Chops and Applesauce Variations

• Use boneless pork chops: You can use leaner pork loin, but don’t overcook it. Stop baking and let the meat rest when it hits 145°, and you can’t go wrong.
• Brown the pork: Pan-fry the pork in butter for a few minutes to get a crust and some tasty caramelization, then reduce the baking time accordingly (or use thicker chops). You’ll also have to heat the sauce through first in a pan to dissolve the sugar.
• Spice it up: You can add heat to the recipe by including grated ginger, red chili flakes or paprika in the applesauce. None of these will clash with the apples.

How to Store Pork Chops and Applesauce

You can store cooked pork chops and applesauce in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. Add a little water to the dish when reheating so it doesn’t dry out.

Can you make pork chop with applesauce ahead of time?

You can certainly prepare the applesauce mixture in advance. It will stay refrigerated for up to five days, or you can freeze a batch for up to three months.

Pork Chops and Applesauce Tips

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How do you keep pork chops from coming out dry?

Although this pork chop and applesauce recipe is meant to be a quick dish to prepare, you’ll get the most succulent meat if you brine it for a few hours in advance. Otherwise, just avoid overcooking the pork.

How can you make sure your pork chops are tender and juicy?

The best way to make sure your pork chops are tender and juicy is to avoid overcooking the meat. While we have a guideline for how to cook pork chops in the oven, the actual cooking time depends on the thickness of the pork chop and whether it’s boneless or bone-in. To make sure they’re not overcooked, use an instant-read thermometer to find the pork chop temperature; the internal temp should be 145°.

Can you make your own applesauce?

You can make homemade applesauce by simmering apples, brown sugar and your choice of spices (cinnamon is a common choice) or customize the chunkiness by using fresh, peeled and sliced apples. Use a variety that falls apart easily during baking, like Golden Delicious.

What can you serve with applesauce pork chops?

This is a hearty fall dish, so pair it with a heap of buttery mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables, rice or noodles. It’s also great with a summer salad for a lighter meal.