One Pan Brown Sugar Pork and Apples is a delightful dish that combines the savory richness of pork with the natural sweetness of apples, all brought together with a glaze of brown sugar and spices. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its flavor but also in its simplicity; everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This One Pan Brown Sugar Pork and Apples recipe is a culinary treasure! The flavor profile is a harmonious blend of sweet and savory, with the brown sugar caramelizing beautifully over the pork and apples, creating a delicious glaze. The ease of cooking in just one pan means you can whip up a hearty meal without the hassle of multiple dishes. Additionally, it fits well into a balanced diet, providing protein from the pork and fiber from the apples, making it a wholesome choice for families and busy individuals alike.
Tips and Tricks
To make your cooking experience even smoother, here are some handy tips:
- Use a cast iron skillet for even heat distribution and great browning.
- For extra flavor, marinate the pork for a few hours or overnight with a mix of brown sugar, garlic, and herbs.
- Slice the apples thinly to ensure they cook evenly and caramelize nicely alongside the pork.
- Consider adding a splash of apple cider or balsamic vinegar to the pan for a tangy twist that complements the sweetness.
Make Ahead Tips
For those who love to meal prep, this dish can be partially made ahead. You can marinate the pork a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Slice the apples ahead of time, but toss them with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning. The dish can also be assembled and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Swap out the pork for chicken or turkey, or use pears instead of apples for a different fruit flavor. You can also experiment with spices; add cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth, or try a splash of soy sauce for an Asian twist. If you prefer a different cooking method, this recipe can easily be adapted for the slow cooker.
How to Serve
The finished dish looks stunning when plated. Serve the pork slices topped with the luscious apple mixture, garnished with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for a pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Pairing Suggestions
When it comes to drinks, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir complements the flavors of the dish brilliantly. For non-alcoholic options, consider serving a sparkling apple cider. Side dishes like creamy mashed potatoes or a wild rice pilaf would enhance the overall dining experience.
How to Store
To store leftovers, place the pork and apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the dish for up to three months. When reheating, do so gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, being careful not to overcook the pork.
Equipment Needed
You will need a large cast iron skillet or a heavy-duty oven-safe pan for this recipe. If you don’t have one, a regular non-stick skillet can work, but ensure it’s oven-safe for the final cooking phase.
Dietary Adaptations
For a vegan version, substitute the pork with firm tofu or tempeh, and use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for sweetness. Ensure that any sauces or condiments used are dairy-free and gluten-free if needed. For nut allergies, this recipe is naturally nut-free!
Seasonal Adaptations
In the fall, take advantage of seasonal apples, such as Honeycrisp or Fuji, for their sweetness. In spring, consider adding fresh herbs like mint or using seasonal fruits like peaches or plums for a refreshing twist.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen pork? Yes, but make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even cooking.
- How long should I cook the pork? Aim for 20-25 minutes, depending on the thickness of the pork chops.
- Can I use other fruits? Absolutely! Pears or even cranberries can be lovely substitutes.
One Pan Brown Sugar Pork and Apples
One Pan Brown Sugar Pork and Apples is a delightful dish that combines the savory richness of pork with the natural sweetness of apples, all brought together with a glaze of brown sugar and spices.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork chops
- 2 medium apples, sliced (preferably sweet varieties)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large cast iron skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season the pork chops with salt and pepper, then sear them in the skillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced apples and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Stir in the brown sugar, garlic, and cinnamon, mixing well to coat the apples.
- Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them among the apples.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve the pork topped with the caramelized apples and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 469Total Fat 26gSaturated Fat 8gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 17gCholesterol 103mgSodium 197mgCarbohydrates 25gFiber 3gSugar 21gProtein 37g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Bringing together the sweetness of apples and the savory richness of pork, this One Pan Brown Sugar Pork and Apples recipe is a delightful meal that is sure to please any palate. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a perfect choice for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Give it a try and enjoy the heartwarming flavors that come from cooking in one pan!
