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When it comes to hearty, soul-satisfying meals, few combinations rival the timeless pairing of pork chops with apples and bacon. This dish beautifully balances the savory depth of seared pork and smoky bacon with the natural sweetness and tartness of apples. Whether served on a chilly autumn evening or as a rustic dinner party entrée, it’s a recipe that brings comfort and flavor in equal measure.
The Flavor Profile
At the heart of this dish lies a beautiful contrast of textures and tastes:
Pork chops, preferably bone-in or thick-cut, are pan-seared for a golden crust, locking in the juices.
Apples add a bright, slightly acidic sweetness. Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji hold their shape well during cooking.
Bacon introduces a smoky richness, infusing the dish with umami and a delightful crunch.
This trio is often complemented by aromatics like onions, garlic, and fresh thyme, creating a layered and deeply satisfying flavor.
Simple Ingredients, Big Impact
Here’s a quick ingredient list for a classic preparation:
4 bone-in pork chops
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped
2 apples, cored and sliced (skin-on or peeled)
1 small onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
½ cup apple cider or chicken broth
1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
1 tbsp butter (optional for richness)
How to Make It
Cook the bacon: In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels. Leave about 1-2 tbsp of bacon fat in the pan.
Sear the pork chops: Season the chops with salt and pepper. Sear them in the bacon fat over medium-high heat, about 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the aromatics: In the same pan, sauté onions until translucent, then add apples, garlic, and thyme. Cook until apples begin to soften slightly.
Deglaze and simmer: Pour in apple cider or broth, and stir in Dijon mustard if using. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to combine flavors.
Return the chops and bacon: Nestle the pork chops back into the skillet along with the crispy bacon. Cover and let everything simmer on low for another 5–8 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Finish and serve: Add a touch of butter for richness, and serve the pork chops with a generous spoonful of the apples, onions, and bacon mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with:
Creamy mashed potatoes or sweet potato mash
Roasted root vegetables
Steamed green beans or sautéed Brussels sprouts
A crisp white wine like Riesling or Chardonnay
Why It Works
Pork and apples are a classic pairing for good reason. The fruit's acidity and natural sugars help cut through the pork’s richness, while bacon adds depth and texture. This trifecta creates a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish with minimal effort but maximum flavor.
Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a weekend kitchen warrior, Pork Chops with Apples and Bacon is a must-try dish that will earn a spot in your culinary rotation. It's rustic, elegant, and bursting with warm, nostalgic flavors.
Source : Oh Women
