Craving a mouthwatering dinner that's both effortless and incredibly delicious? Get ready to transform ordinary pork chops into a culinary masterpiece with our Applesauce Baked Pork Chops! This recipe is a game-changer for home cooks looking to impress their family and friends with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Imagine tender, juicy pork chops glazed with a sweet and warming cinnamon-applesauce sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds – and the best part? It's so simple, you'll feel like a professional chef in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1 cup applesauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or butter.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve better browning and seasoning adherence.
- Season both sides of the pork chops generously with salt and pepper, ensuring even coverage.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the applesauce, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir until the ingredients are thoroughly mixed and create a smooth, uniform sauce.
- Place the seasoned pork chops in the prepared baking dish, arranging them in a single layer without overcrowding.
- Pour the applesauce mixture evenly over the pork chops, making sure each chop is well-coated with the sauce.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to help retain moisture and prevent the pork chops from drying out.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes covered, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes to allow the sauce to caramelize slightly.
- Check the internal temperature of the pork chops with a meat thermometer. They should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
- Remove from the oven and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
- Serve hot, spooning any additional sauce from the baking dish over the pork chops for extra flavor.
Tips
- • For the most tender and flavorful results, choose pork chops that are about 1-inch thick. This ensures they stay moist during baking. • Pat the pork chops completely dry before seasoning to help achieve a beautiful golden-brown exterior. • Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking – 145°F is the perfect internal temperature for juicy pork chops. • If you want extra caramelization, broil the pork chops for 1-2 minutes after baking to create a slightly crispy top. • For a flavor variation, try using different types of applesauce like cinnamon or spiced apple varieties. • Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes after cooking to lock in those delicious juices and ensure maximum tenderness. • Pair with roasted vegetables or a simple side salad to complete this easy and delightful meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 80mg
