There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of tender baked pork chops and flavorful applesauce gravy. This hearty dish is a perfect choice for a cozy night in, offering a blend of savory and sweet flavors that will delight your taste buds. The juicy pork chops paired with the rich and tangy applesauce create a delicious harmony that is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.
**Baked Pork Chops in Applesauce Gravy**
**Ingredients:**
– 4 bone-in pork chops
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the pork chops generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until nicely browned. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Stir in the applesauce, chicken broth, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then return the pork chops to the skillet, making sure to coat them with the sauce.
5. Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through.
6. Once the pork chops are done, remove them from the skillet and place them on a serving platter. Tent the pork chops with foil to keep them warm.
7. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
8. Slowly pour the pan juices from the skillet into the saucepan with the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook the gravy until it thickens to your desired consistency.
9. Serve the pork chops with the applesauce gravy spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Indulge in the delightful combination of flavors and textures as you savor each bite of these baked pork chops in applesauce gravy. The tender meat, paired with the sweet and tangy sauce, creates a harmonious dish that will have your family asking for seconds. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this recipe as it brings a touch of home-cooked goodness to your table.
