When you’re looking for a hearty yet budget-friendly meal that feels like a treat, these Easy Apple Pork Chops with Sweet Potato Mashed Potatoes are the perfect solution. This recipe combines the sweet and savory flavors of tender pork chops cooked in a luscious apple sauce, paired with creamy sweet potato mash. It’s quick to prepare and makes for a memorable dinner that the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that deliver big on flavor.
- Family Favorite: Combines the natural sweetness of apples and sweet potatoes for a meal that even picky eaters will enjoy.
- Versatile: Can be customized with fresh or dried herbs, and works for meal prep or freezer-friendly meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 pork chops
- 1 tablespoon oil (olive or vegetable)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or bone broth
- 1 apple, sliced
- 1 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar
- A sprinkle of dried thyme, dried oregano, and cinnamon (or fresh herbs if available)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sweet Potato Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1 pound), peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil for a dairy-free version)
- 1/4 cup milk (or dairy-free milk)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Sweet Potato Mash:
- Boil cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot of water over medium-high heat for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
- Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Add cinnamon or nutmeg if desired. Set aside.
- Cook the Pork Chops:
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 3-5 minutes on each side until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Apple Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add chicken broth, apple slices, brown sugar, thyme, oregano, and cinnamon. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the apples soften and the sauce thickens.
- Finish the Dish:
- Return pork chops to the skillet, spooning the apple mixture over them. Cook for 5-10 minutes until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Plate the pork chops with sweet potato mashed potatoes. Drizzle any remaining apple sauce over the pork for extra flavor.
Tips for Success
- Use Bone-In Pork Chops: They retain more moisture and flavor during cooking.
- Choose Tart Apples: Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp provide a nice balance to the sweet sauce.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute butter and milk with plant-based alternatives.
- Add a Protein Twist: For extra flavor, consider topping with crispy bacon bits or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Freezer and Meal Prep Instructions
- Store leftovers in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Pairing Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a light green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a crusty baguette to soak up the sauce. For beverages, a crisp white wine or apple cider complements the flavors perfectly.
Conclusion
These Easy Apple Pork Chops are a comforting and flavorful dinner option that combines simplicity with sophistication. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a casual weeknight, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal right at home. Plus, the creamy sweet potato mash is the perfect sidekick, making it a complete meal your family will rave about.
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Easy Apple Pork Chops with Sweet Potato Mashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
This delightful meal features tender pork chops cooked in a sweet and savory apple sauce, complemented by creamy sweet potato mashed potatoes. It’s a quick and budget-friendly dinner that feels like a special occasion!
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1 tablespoon oil (olive or vegetable)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or bone broth
- 1 apple, sliced
- 1 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar
- A sprinkle of dried thyme, dried oregano, and cinnamon (or fresh herbs if available)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1 pound), peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil for a dairy-free version)
- 1/4 cup milk (or dairy-free milk)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor
Instructions
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Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
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Once cooked, drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter (or olive oil), milk, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste and stir in optional spices if desired. Set aside.
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In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the oil. Once hot, place the pork chops in the pan and sear for about 3-5 minutes on each side, until browned. Remove the pork chops from the pan and set aside.
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In the same pan, add the chicken broth, apple slices, brown sugar, and a sprinkle of thyme, oregano, and cinnamon. Stir and cook for about 3-5 minutes until the apples are softened and the sauce has slightly thickened.
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Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning the apple mixture over them. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and is cooked through.
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Plate the sweet potato mashed potatoes alongside the apple pork chops. Drizzle any remaining apple sauce over the pork chops for added flavor.
Notes
Leftover pork chops and sweet potato mash can be stored in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
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