Apple Butter Pork Chops Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting dinner that’s both easy and packed with flavor, you’ve got to try this Apple Butter Pork Chops Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that just feels like a warm hug on a plate—sweet, savory, and perfectly balanced. I absolutely love how the apple butter creates this luscious sauce that pairs beautifully with tender pork chops. Trust me, once you give this a whirl, it’ll become your go-to recipe for busy weeknights or anytime you want something a little special without the fuss.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Apple Butter Pork Chops Recipe lies in the combo of simple, wholesome ingredients that play off each other so beautifully. Choosing the right apples and quality apple butter really brings the flavor to life, and a pinch of chili powder adds an unexpected kick that makes this dish pop.

• Boneless center-cut pork chop filets: I like using center-cut ones because they’re tender and cook evenly.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Seasoning is everything—don’t be shy here.
• Unsalted butter: Divided for cooking the pork and apples separately, adds richness.
• Apples: No need to peel! I prefer Granny Smith for a tart contrast, but if you like things sweeter, Gala or Fuji work beautifully.
• Apple butter: Grab a good-quality jar—this is the star of the sauce. I use about half a jar but adjust to your sweetness preference.
• Brown sugar: Just a touch to balance the apple butter’s tang.
• Ancho chili powder (or chili powder): This adds a subtle warmth that complements the sweetness without overpowering it.
• Heavy cream: Adds a silky texture to the sauce—room temperature helps it incorporate smoothly.

Variations

I love how this Apple Butter Pork Chops Recipe is easy to tweak to your taste or what you have on hand. I often switch things up depending on the season or mood—feel free to make it your own.

• Dairy-Free Version: I once made this using vegan butter and coconut cream instead of dairy, and it was surprisingly creamy and just as delicious.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat if you’re in the mood for a bolder flavor.
• Apple Variety Swap: Using Honey Crisp apples gives a sweeter, juicier sauce, which is lovely if you want a dessert-like note.
• Swap Pork for Chicken: If you want lighter protein, chicken breasts or thighs work well with this sauce too.

How to Make Apple Butter Pork Chops Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear the Pork Chops

Start by seasoning both sides of your pork chop filets generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t skimp here—seasoning is key to flavor. Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the pork chops. Cook them for about 3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Once done, transfer them to a plate and let them rest while you prepare the apples. This resting step really helps keep the pork super juicy.

Step 2: Cook the Apples and Build the Sauce

Using the same skillet (no need to dirty another!), melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Toss in your sliced apples and cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften—this releases their natural juices and sweet aroma fills the kitchen. Then, stir in the apple butter, brown sugar, and chili powder. I like to use ancho chili powder because of its smoky, mild heat, but regular chili powder works too. Stir it all together, then add the heavy cream. Keep stirring and bring the mixture to a gentle boil—it will start to thicken and become that luscious sauce you want.

Step 3: Finish Cooking the Pork Chops in the Sauce

Now, nestle the pork chops back in the skillet, pressing aside the apples so each chop’s bottom is touching the pan. Spoon a tablespoon of the apple butter sauce over each side of the pork chops as they cook. Let them cook for about 4 minutes on each side, spooning more sauce on top to keep them moist and flavorful. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—the internal temperature should reach 145°F for safe and juicy results. Once cooked through, you’re ready to plate up!

How to Serve Apple Butter Pork Chops Recipe

Garnishes

I usually finish this dish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or chopped parsley, which adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens the richness of the sauce. Sometimes a light drizzle of extra apple butter on top amps up the flavor just before serving.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles to soak up that delicious apple butter sauce. Roasted Brussels sprouts or a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette help cut through the richness for a perfect balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For holidays or dinner guests, I like to plate the pork chops atop a bed of sautéed greens—kale or spinach work great—with the apple butter sauce drizzled elegantly over the top. Adding a few roasted apple slices alongside not only looks lovely but gives extra texture and flavor kicks that wow every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge. The next day, the flavors have melded even more, making for an even tastier lunch or dinner. Just keep the sauce on the side if you plan to reheat gently to avoid overcooking the pork.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked pork chops with the apple butter sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When freezing, I like to portion the meal so I can thaw just what I need, and I’ve found that freezing doesn’t change the flavors or texture much, which is a big plus.

Reheating

To reheat, I gently warm the pork chops and sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickened too much. This keeps the chops juicy without drying them out. Microwaving works in a pinch but can sometimes cause dryness, so just watch the time carefully.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Apple Butter Pork Chops Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s that perfect balance of simplicity and flair. It’s the kind of meal that feels like you’ve gone the extra mile, even though it’s straightforward enough for any weeknight. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as my family and I do. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite dinner dish!

Apple Butter Pork Chops Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 64 reviews

• Author: Jessica
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

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Description

This Apple Butter Pork Chops recipe features tender pan-seared pork chops smothered in a rich, creamy apple butter sauce infused with sautéed apples and a hint of chili powder. The dish beautifully balances savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors, making it a perfect cozy meal for fall or any time you crave comforting pork with fruit-based sauce.

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Ingredients

For the Pork Chops

• 1 lb. boneless center-cut pork chop filets (about 2 filets)
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

For the Apple Butter Sauce

• 2 apples, cored and sliced (no need to peel; Granny Smith recommended, but Gala, Fuji, Braeburn, Honey Crisp, or Jonagold all work)
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 7½ oz. apple butter (½ jar; use more if desired; applesauce can also be substituted)
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp ancho chili powder or chili powder
• ⅓ cup heavy cream, room temperature

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Instructions

1. Season Pork Chops: Season both sides of each pork chop generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Sear Pork Chops: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the pork chops and cook each side for 3 minutes until nicely browned. Remove pork chops from skillet and place on a plate; let them rest while preparing the apples.
3. Sauté Apples: Using the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the sliced apples and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples become soft and slightly caramelized.
4. Prepare Apple Butter Sauce: Pour in the apple butter, brown sugar, and chili powder into the skillet with the apples. Stir everything together to combine evenly. Next, add the heavy cream and continue stirring, allowing the mixture to come to a light boil and thicken slightly.
5. Cook Pork Chops in Sauce: Return the pork chops to the skillet, pushing the apples aside so the bottoms of the pork chops make direct contact with the pan. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the apple butter sauce over each side of the pork chops as you cook. Continue cooking the pork chops for about 4 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F, indicating they are cooked through but still juicy.
6. Serve: Serve the pork chops hot, generously spooned with the apple mixture and sauce from the skillet for a rich, flavorful finish.

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Notes

• For a dairy-free option, substitute the unsalted butter with vegan butter and replace the heavy cream with coconut cream.
• You can adjust the sweetness by using more or less apple butter according to your preference.
• Using different apple varieties will subtly change the flavor profile; tart apples like Granny Smith add brightness, while sweeter varieties will make the sauce mellower.
• Ensure pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption while remaining tender and juicy.
• Serve with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables to complement the creamy apple butter sauce.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 pork chop with sauce
• Calories: 520 kcal
• Sugar: 18 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Fat: 32 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 125 mg