Easy Pork Chops and Applesauce in 15 Minutes
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Pork chops and applesauce make an easy meal with the right mix of savory and sweet. The chops are seasoned, seared in butter until tender, and served with a simple applesauce that ties it all together. It fits into a busy week and feels right at home on a cool evening or around the table with friends.
Pork chops are a staple in my kitchen because they’re easy to cook and work with almost anything. Some nights I make simple air fryer pork chops, other nights I’ll rgo for some flavor and whip up pineapple teriyaki pork chops. But when I want something that feels comforting and familiar, pork chops with applesauce is what I make. It’s the same dish I grew up eating at my Grandma’s, only now I can get it on the table in about 15 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Pantry-friendly
- Quick and easy
- Great for leftovers: Warms up well, so it’s perfect for prepping ahead.
- Packed with flavor: Tender pork chops and cinnamon applesauce bring sweet and savory together.
- Flexible recipe: Switch up the herbs, choose your cut of pork, or try different apples.
- Classic comfort: All the goodness of the traditional dish, minus the fuss.
How to Make Pork Chops and Applesauce
With only 5 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking, skillet pork chops with applesauce make a quick and satisfying meal. Start by seasoning and cooking the chops, mix together the applesauce, and enjoy!
Scroll down to the printable recipe card for the full list of ingredients, measurements, and step-by-step instructions.
Ingredients You Need
- Pork chops: Boneless chops about an inch thick work best, though bone-in can be used with a little extra cooking time depending on thickness.
- Butter
- Salt, black pepper, and garlic powder
- Dried herbs: Thyme and rosemary add a nice savory note.
- Applesauce: Unsweetened applesauce, either homemade or store-bought, works well. Make extra to enjoy as pancakes the next morning.
- Dijon mustard
- Cinnamon
Step-By-Step Instructions
All it takes to make applesauce pork chops is a skillet, a bowl, and a few minutes of your time. No marinating is needed, just follow these simple steps!
Step 1: Season the chops
Dry the pork chops with a paper towel, then sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme.
Step 2: Cook
Add butter to a skillet and heat over medium-high. Place the pork chops in the pan and cook about 3 minutes per side, until golden and the center reaches 145 F.
Step 3: Mix the applesauce
In a small bowl, stir applesauce together with Dijon mustard and cinnamon until smooth.
Step 4: Serve
Plate the pork chops and spoon the applesauce mixture over the top before serving warm.
Substitutions
Keeping the recipe simple doesn’t mean you’re stuck with just one version. Use what’s in your kitchen or swap ingredients to suit your taste with these easy swaps:
- Butter: Replace with avocado oil.
- Garlic powder: Granulated garlic works, or use fresh minced garlic (about one clove per chop).
- Dried herbs: Replace with three times the amount of fresh thyme and rosemary, or try Italian seasoning.
- Dijon mustard: Whole-grain mustard makes a good alternative.
- Cinnamon: Nutmeg, allspice, or pumpkin spice can be used instead.
Expert Tips
- Dry the chops first: Pat them with paper towels before seasoning to get a better golden sear.
- Add some heat: Sprinkle in cayenne for spice or smoked paprika for a warm, savory note.
- Control the sweetness: Unsweetened applesauce keeps the flavor balanced. Add honey or maple syrup if you like it sweeter.
- Rest before serving: Let the pork sit for 5 minutes after cooking so the juices stay inside and the meat stays tender.
- Make extra sauce: Double the applesauce mix so you have plenty for sides too.
- Dress it up for guests: Sauté a few apple slices with the chops for extra flavor and a nice presentation at the table.
How to Store This Recipe
Cool the pork chops fully before placing them in an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for a month if you separate the layers with parchment paper. When reheating, warm them on the stove over medium-low heat and add a little broth or water to keep them moist.
What to Serve with Pork Chops and Applesauce
Pork chops with applesauce are a cozy staple, and they shine even more with the right sides. Go classic with mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, fluffy rolls, or stuffing to catch every bit of sauce. If you’d rather keep things lighter, a fresh green salad or roasted green beans pairs perfectly.
More Skillet Dinners To Try
Pork Chops with Applesauce Skillet Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 (1-inch) boneless pork chops
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 cup applesauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Dry the pork chops with a paper towel, then sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme.
- Add butter to a skillet and heat over medium-high. Place the pork chops in the pan and cook about 3 minutes per side, until golden and the center reaches 145 °F .
- In a small bowl, stir applesauce together with Dijon mustard and cinnamon until smooth.
- Plate the pork chops and spoon the applesauce mixture over the top before serving warm.
Notes
- Pat the chops dry with paper towels first so they brown nicely.
- Add a little cayenne for spice or smoked paprika for a cozy, savory flavor.
- Use unsweetened applesauce for balance, then stir in honey or maple syrup if you like it sweeter.
- Let the pork rest for 5 minutes after cooking so it stays juicy and tender.
- Make extra applesauce mix so you’ll have plenty for your sides.
- Cook a few apple slices along with the chops for more flavor and a pretty touch at the table.
