– 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 1 cup apple butter
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Fresh rosemary or thyme (for garnish, optional)
Creating Apple Butter Pork Chops is straightforward if you follow these essential steps:
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel. This will help them sear nicely.
3. Season Chops: In a small mixing bowl, combine salt, black pepper, cinnamon, and garlic powder. Rub this mixture evenly over both sides of each pork chop.
4. Heat Oil: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
5. Sear Pork Chops: Place the pork chops in the skillet and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
6. Add Apple Butter: Once the chops are seared, spread about one quarter cup of apple butter over the tops of the chops evenly.
7. Add Vinegar: Drizzle apple cider vinegar around the chops in the skillet for added flavor.
8. Transfer to Oven: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
9. Rest Chops: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
10. Serve: Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme if desired for a pop of color and flavor.
By following these clear steps, you will create mouthwatering Apple Butter Pork Chops that everyone will love.