Pork Chops with Cinnamon Apples and Butternut Squash

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Here’s a hearty and flavorful recipe for Pork Chops with Cinnamon Apples and Butternut Squash that makes for a perfect fall meal!

Ingredients:

  • 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 medium apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cut into cubes
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 cup apple cider or apple juice
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Season the pork chops:
  • Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme.
  1. Sear the pork chops:
  • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  1. Cook the butternut squash:
  • In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the cubed butternut squash and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized. Remove the squash from the skillet and set aside.
  1. Cook the apples:
  • Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Add the sliced apples and sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir to coat the apples evenly. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the apples soften and start to caramelize.
  1. Deglaze and combine:
  • Pour the apple cider (or apple juice) into the skillet to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the liquid simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  1. Finish cooking:
  • Return the pork chops and butternut squash to the skillet, nestling them around the apples. Cover and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C) and the flavors meld together.
  1. Serve:
  • Plate the pork chops with the cinnamon apples and butternut squash. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tip:

For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle some maple syrup over the dish before serving. This recipe pairs well with mashed potatoes or a simple green salad.

Enjoy your savory and sweet Pork Chops with Cinnamon Apples and Butternut Squash—a perfect blend of fall flavors!

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