Pork loin chops seasoned with paprika, sage, thyme and warming spices, lightly pan-fried and served with a bright homemade applesauce. This simple, comforting combination brings together sweet and savory notes perfect for cooler months and weeknight dinners.
Pork Chops and Applesauce
Pork Chops and ApplesauceWhen the applesauce began simmering in my slow cooker, I knew it would pair perfectly with pork chops. I like to serve these chops alongside creamy buttermilk mashed potatoes and an autumn salad with pears for a balanced, seasonal plate. The applesauce adds a fresh, slightly sweet contrast to the savory, herb-scented pork.
This recipe is especially satisfying in the fall because it’s fast, uncomplicated and full of flavors that feel like the season — warm spices, fresh herbs and a touch of sweetness. It takes about 20 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy evenings. The dish is also friendly to a variety of diets: low in carbs, suitable for gluten-free when you skip the flour, and easily adapted for low-calorie or keto-style meals.
You can choose bone-in or boneless pork chops; center-cut pork loin chops are a great lean option. The most important tip is not to overcook the meat — cook to an internal temperature of 145° F and allow the chops to rest for three minutes, which yields juicy, flavorful results that are safe to eat.
More Pork Recipes You Might Enjoy
- Grilled Cumin-Spiced Pork Tenderloin
- Pork Chops with Mushrooms and Shallots
- Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas (Mexican Pulled Pork)
- Pork Chops with Dijon Herb Sauce
- Instant Pot Garlicky Cuban Pork
Pork Chops and Applesauce
Pork loin chops, seasoned with paprika, sage, thyme and spices, lightly pan-fried and served with applesauce. Ready in 20 minutes, this is an easy, flavorful dinner that feels like fall.
Yield: 4 servings
Serving Size: 1 chop and 2 tablespoons applesauce
Prep: 10 mins Cook: 10 mins Total: 20 mins
Calories: 180 per serving (approx.)
Course: Dinner Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 thin, 14 oz total boneless pork loin chops, center cut
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried sage
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp butter (or oil)
- 2 tbsp flour (optional — omit for gluten free)
- 1/2 cup applesauce for serving (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions
- Pat the pork chops dry. Season both sides with paprika, garlic powder, dried sage, dried thyme, salt and freshly cracked pepper.
- If using flour, place it on a small plate and lightly coat each chop, tapping off excess so they are only lightly dusted.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter (or a neutral oil) and allow it to melt and shimmer but not burn.
- When the pan is hot, add the chops in a single layer without crowding. Cook for 3 1/2 to 4 minutes on the first side until golden.
- Flip the chops and cook another 3 to 4 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145° F.
- Remove the chops from the pan and let them rest on a platter for three minutes before serving. Resting helps redistribute juices so the meat remains tender.
- Serve each chop with about 2 tablespoons of applesauce on the side, plus your choice of mashed potatoes or a seasonal salad.
Notes & Tips
Center-cut pork loin chops are lean and cook quickly; watch the time and use an instant-read thermometer if you have one. For a gluten-free version, skip the flour coating and sear the chops in a little extra butter or oil. If you prefer a saucier dish, remove the cooked chops and deglaze the pan with a splash of apple cider or broth, scraping up browned bits to create a quick pan sauce to spoon over the meat.
Nutrition (per serving, approximate)
Calories: 180 kcal; Carbohydrates: 4.8 g; Protein: 20.3 g; Fat: 8.2 g; Fiber: 0.3 g; Sugar: 1.5 g.
Final Thought
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