When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the savory and tangy delight of Lemon Pepper Pork Chops Baked and Served with Apples. This recipe combines the zesty flavor of lemon pepper with the sweetness of baked apples, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
To make this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Apple Topping:
- 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
Preparing the Pork Chops
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, prepare the pork chops.
- Season the Pork Chops: In a small bowl, combine the lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Rub this mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops.
- Sear the Pork Chops: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown.
- Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the pork chops, making sure each chop is coated. This will enhance the lemon flavor and help tenderize the meat.
- Bake the Pork Chops: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C).
Preparing the Apple Topping
- Cook the Apples: While the pork chops are baking, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
- Simmer: Cook the apples, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized.
Combining and Serving
- Plate the Pork Chops: Once the pork chops are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Top with Apples: Spoon the caramelized apples over the pork chops, ensuring each chop gets a generous amount of the sweet topping.
- Serve: Serve the pork chops with your favorite sides. Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad pair wonderfully with this dish.
Tips and Variations
Tips for Cooking
- Searing: Make sure to sear the pork chops properly to lock in the juices and create a flavorful crust.
- Resting: Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after baking to ensure they remain juicy and tender.
Variations
- Air Fryer: To make lemon pepper pork chops in an air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Season the pork chops as instructed, and air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Stove Top: If you prefer cooking on the stove, you can follow the same steps for seasoning and searing, then cover and cook on medium-low heat until the pork chops are done.
- Marinade: For an even deeper flavor, marinate the pork chops in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, and minced garlic for at least 2 hours before cooking.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving (1 pork chop with apple topping):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 450mg
Lemon Pepper Pork Chops Baked and Served with Apples is a delightful dish that brings together savory and sweet flavors in a perfect harmony. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and experience the delicious combination of zesty lemon pepper and sweet baked apples. Don’t forget to share your experiences in the comments below and tag us on social media when you make this dish.