Juicy pork chops, sweet apples, and caramelized onions come together in one skillet for the perfect cozy dinner. This easy recipe delivers big flavor with simple ingredients — a sweet-and-savory combo your whole family will love.
Chop the onions, peel the apples and cut into wedges, chop the bacon, and finely chop the herbs.
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Season pork chops with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over high heat. The perfect sear will take about 3 minutes per side or until golden brown. Remove chops and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Toss in apple wedges, onion, and bacon. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat, then transfer the skillet to the oven. Roast for 20 minutes.
Remove skillet, nestle the pork chops into the apple-onion mixture, and return to the oven. Bake another 10–15 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to test doneness. The pork chops are done when the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F.
Transfer chops to a plate, tent loosely with foil, and rest 5 minutes.
Optional Sauce: Deglaze the pan with a splash of apple cider or broth, scraping up the browned bits on the bottom of the pan for a simple, flavorful pan sauce. Thicken with a cornstarch slurry or splash of heavy cream, if desired. Spoon over the chops to serve.
Notes
Recipe Variations
Pork Cuts: Try pork tenderloin, rib chops, or even pork steaks.
Apple Swaps: Use pears or peaches for a twist.
Liquids: Swap apple cider for white wine or chicken stock.
Sauce Options: Add cream, milk, or even coconut milk for richness.
Herbs & Spices: Add some extra flavor with fresh herbs like sage or rosemary. Garlic powder, onion powder, cinnamon, or cloves also work well.