Braised Pork Chops with Apples

This Braised Pork Chops with Apples recipe is my go-to for busy evenings when I want something warming and satisfying without a lot of fuss. The pork turns tender and juicy, and the combination of sweet apples and savory broth creates a cozy sauce that feels right for chilly nights. Everything cooks together in one pan for easy clean up and maximum flavor.

The first time I made this, my kitchen filled with the smell of apples and thyme and everyone was at the table before I could even call them. Now it is a fall classic in my house and always makes everyone smile.

Ingredients

• Pork chops: about five ounces each thick cut for juicy results choose ones with some marbling for the best flavor
• Sea salt: seasons the pork nicely taste before adding extra to the sauce
• Ground black pepper: brings out all the savory here freshly ground gives you the best aroma
• Oil: any neutral oil works here helps brown the meat for a good sear
• White onions: sliced for sweetness and depth look for firm heavy onions without sprouting
• Fuji apples: or any sweet-tart apple add fruity brightness choose apples that are crisp for the best texture
• Garlic cloves: crushed and peeled bring warmth be sure to use fresh garlic for the boldest taste
• Dried thyme: classic herby note gives this a cozy feel rub between your fingers to release more flavor
• Tomato paste: adds richness and rounds out the sauce opt for a deep red paste for max flavor
• Apple cider vinegar: brightens the sauce and balances the sweetness
• Brown sugar: enhances the caramelized apples choose soft and moist sugar for easy mixing
• Beef broth: supports a savory base use low sodium if you want to control salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Pork:

Pat the pork chops dry and sprinkle both sides with sea salt and black pepper. Press seasoning in so it really sticks. This simple step wakes up their flavor before they hit the pan

Sear the Pork Chops:

Place a large skillet on medium heat. Add oil and once shimmering lay the pork chops in. Sear each side for about two minutes until golden brown. This locks in juices. Remove the chops and set aside saving them for later

Sauté Apples and Aromatics:

Into the same skillet now add the onions apples garlic and dried thyme. Stir everything on medium heat for around five minutes. Onions grow translucent and apples soften just a bit not mushy at this stage. The brown bits left from searing create depth

Mix and Add Sauce:

In a separate bowl whisk together tomato paste apple cider vinegar brown sugar and beef broth. Pour this mixture over the apple onion mix. Stir to loosen up any bits stuck to the skillet. Let it bubble until half the liquid evaporates and it starts to look saucy

Simmer Chops to Finish:

Nestle the pork chops back into the skillet arranging them so they soak up the sauce. Lower the heat and gently simmer for three to four minutes. The pork should cook through and become super tender. Taste the sauce and adjust with more salt and pepper. Scatter with chopped parsley if you like and serve hot maybe with rice or mashed potatoes

Pin

For me Fuji apples bring the perfect blend of sweetness and crispness without getting grainy even after simmering. The first time my kids helped chop apples for this meal they could not wait to see how their work transformed on the stove. We laugh every time about who gets the biggest apple chunk in their serving

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat simply warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce. This dish also freezes nicely just cool completely then freeze in a tightly sealed container. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out Fuji apples for any firm sweet-tart variety such as Honeycrisp or Gala if that is what you have on hand. If you do not have beef broth chicken or vegetable stock works fine though you will notice a slightly lighter flavor. Bone-in pork chops can be used if you adjust the simmering time to ensure tenderness

Pin

Serving Suggestions

This dish is perfect with creamy mashed potatoes or a side of fluffy rice to soak up the delicious sauce. For an extra vegetable hit pair it with roasted carrots or sautéed greens. Warm buttered bread works for wiping the last bit of sauce from your plate

Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe

→ What type of apples work best for this dish?

Fuji apples are recommended for their balanced sweetness and firm texture, but you can substitute Honeycrisp or Gala for a similar result.

→ Can I use boneless pork chops?

Yes, boneless pork chops work well, though they may cook slightly faster. Monitor closely to keep them tender and juicy.

→ What sides pair well with pork chops and apples?

Serve alongside rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables to complement the rich sauce and tender meat.

→ How do I prevent the pork chops from drying out?

Quickly sear the chops and then finish gently simmering in the sauce. Avoid overcooking for the juiciest results.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Yes, prepare in advance and gently reheat. The flavors meld even more as they sit, making leftovers delicious.