Pork chops are fantastic for a quick and satisfying dinner. I always look for simple ways to make them special without a lot of fuss, especially on busy weeknights.
Today, I’m sharing two easy pork chop recipes that I know you’ll love. Whether you’re in the mood for something with the natural sweetness of fruit or a creamy, comforting meal, I’ve got you covered. Get ready for some tasty pork chop inspiration!
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Pork Chops with Apples and Onions: A Sweet and Hearty Meal
This recipe brings together tender pork chops with the natural sweetness of apples and the mild bite of onions. It’s an easy, one-pan dish perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Pork Chops
- Picking Apples: Choose firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape well when cooked.
- Pork Doneness: Pork chops cook quickly. I always use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 145°F (63°C) for the best juicy texture.
- Onion Browning: Let the onions get a nice golden-brown color. This adds a good depth of flavor to the dish.
What You Need for Apple Onion Pork Chops
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 large apples, cored and sliced (e.g., Honeycrisp, Fuji)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
⏱️ Time: 30 minutes🍽️ Yields: 4 servings
How to Make Pork Chops with Apples
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season them generously on both sides with salt and pepper. Slice your apples into wedges and your onion into thin strips.
Step 2: Sear Pork Chops
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side until they have a nice golden-brown crust. Remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Step 3: Cook Apples and Onions
Add the sliced apples and onions to the same skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and turn slightly golden. If you are using brown sugar, sprinkle it in now.
Step 4: Bring It Together
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any delicious bits from the bottom of the pan. Return the seared pork chops to the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium, cover the skillet, and cook for another 5-8 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through (145°F internal temperature).
📝 Final Note
This dish is wonderful served with a side of rice or mashed potatoes to soak up all the delicious juices. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Creamy Pork Chops with Mushroom Soup: Quick Comfort Food
When you need a dinner that’s both comforting and incredibly simple, these creamy pork chops hit the spot. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a rich and satisfying meal on the table fast.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Creamy Pork Chops
- Canned Soup Choice: A good quality condensed cream of mushroom soup makes a noticeable difference in the final sauce. You can also use cream of chicken if you prefer.
- Browning First: A quick sear on the pork chops before adding the sauce helps build a good base flavor and texture for the meat.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to add a splash of milk or cream to the soup mixture for an even richer sauce, or a sprinkle of garlic powder for extra depth.
What You Need for Mushroom Soup Pork Chops
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1/2 to 3/4-inch thick)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup water or milk
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
⏱️ Time: 35 minutes🍽️ Yields: 4 servings
How to Make Creamy Pork Chops
Step 1: Season Pork Chops
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Brown the Chops
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the seasoned pork chops in the hot skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, just until they are lightly browned. You don’t need to cook them through at this stage.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup and 1/2 cup of water or milk until the mixture is smooth.
Step 4: Simmer and Serve
Pour the soup mixture evenly over the browned pork chops in the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pork chops are tender and cooked through (145°F internal temperature).
📝 Final Note
Serve these creamy pork chops with egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. Steamed green beans or broccoli make a nice addition to this satisfying meal.
