Print

Maple Bourbon Pork Chops with Caramelized Apples

maple bourbon pork chops - featured image

Tender pork chops glazed with sweet maple syrup and rich bourbon, paired with buttery caramelized apples for a cozy, fall-inspired dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1-inch thick)
  • 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons bourbon (or apple juice for alcohol-free)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith, peeled and sliced thinly)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Fresh thyme for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, bourbon, and minced garlic. Heat over medium-low until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
  2. Pat the pork chops dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Let them sit for 5-10 minutes to absorb the seasoning.
  3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are golden and tender, about 8 minutes. Remove the apples from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Heat olive oil in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
  5. Lower the heat to medium. Pour the maple bourbon glaze over the pork chops and simmer for 5-7 minutes, spooning the glaze over the chops occasionally. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  6. Return the caramelized apples to the skillet, arranging them around the pork chops. Let everything warm together for 2-3 minutes.
  7. Transfer the pork chops and apples to a serving platter, drizzle with any remaining glaze, and garnish with fresh thyme if desired.

Notes

[‘Let the pork chops develop a nice crust before flipping. If they stick to the pan, give them another minute—they’ll release naturally when ready.’, ‘Use a meat thermometer to ensure you don’t overcook the pork. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).’, ‘If your glaze becomes too thick, whisk in a teaspoon of water or chicken broth to thin it out.’, ‘Prep your apples while the glaze simmers to save time.’, ‘Caramelize the apples in a separate pan if your skillet starts looking crowded.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: maple bourbon pork chops, caramelized apples, fall recipe, pork chop recipe, comfort food