Imagine a dish that combines the perfect balance of savory and sweet, where tender juicy pork chops meet crispy bacon and caramelized apples in a mouthwatering symphony of flavors. This American-style recipe is not just a meal, it's a culinary experience that transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary feast that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 2 apples, diced
- 4 slices of bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crisp and golden. Remove bacon and set aside on paper towels, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.
- In the same skillet with bacon fat, add olive oil and increase heat to medium-high. Sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust.
- Add diced apples around the pork chops in the skillet. Crumble the cooked bacon over the apples and pork chops.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from oven and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Plate the pork chops with the caramelized apples and crispy bacon pieces on top. Serve hot.
Tips
- Always pat your pork chops dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect golden-brown sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature - 145°F is the sweet spot for perfectly cooked, juicy pork.
- Let the pork chops rest after cooking to retain their moisture and tenderness.
- Choose thick-cut, bone-in pork chops for maximum flavor and juiciness.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when searing to achieve that beautiful caramelization.
- Use a cast-iron skillet if possible for even heat distribution and better crust development.
- Select crisp, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor contrast with the rich pork and bacon.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 110mg