Q1: What is the absolute secret to a juicy, not dry, baked pork chop?

There are two main secrets! First, be sure to start with a thick-cut, bone-in pork chop . The bone helps to insulate the meat and keep it moist. Second, and most importantly, be very careful not to overcook them . The best way to check for doneness is with an instant-read thermometer . Pork is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) .

Q2: What is the correct and safe internal temperature for cooked pork?

According to the USDA, pork is perfectly and safely cooked when the internal temperature in the thickest part of the meat reaches 145°F (63°C) , followed by a 3- to 5-minute rest . This will result in a pork chop that is incredibly juicy and may still have a hint of beautiful, blush pink in the center, which is both perfectly safe and delicious.

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish comes together so quickly that it is at its absolute best when it is made fresh. However, for a fantastic time-saving trick, you can prepare the entire applesauce glaze and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes the final dinner a true, 5-minute prep job.

Q4: Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?

You can, but you will need to be much more careful with the cooking time. If you are using thick-cut, boneless pork chops , the cooking time will be very similar. If you are using thin, boneless pork chops , you will need to reduce the baking time significantly (check them after 10-15 minutes) to ensure they do not overcook and become dry.

Q5: Can I sear the pork chops first for a better crust?

Yes, absolutely! For an even deeper flavor and a beautiful, caramelized crust, you can sear the pork chops in a hot, oven-safe skillet with a little bit of butter or oil for about 2-3 minutes per side before you top them with the glaze and place the entire skillet in the oven to finish baking.

Easy Baked Pork Chops and Applesauce

The Best Easy Baked Pork Chops and Applesauce

An extremely simple, one-pan recipe for classic baked pork chops and applesauce. This easy weeknight meal features bone-in pork loin chops placed in an ovenproof skillet and topped with a sweet and savory sauce. The sauce is a simple mixture of unsweetened applesauce, brown sugar, barbecue sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. The dish is then baked uncovered until the pork is cooked through and the sauce has created a glaze.

Author: Grace

Ingredients

4 bone-in pork loin chops (1/2 inch thick and 7 ounces each)
1 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon barbecue sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Place the pork chops in a large cast-iron or other ovenproof skillet.
In a small bowl, mix the remaining ingredients: applesauce, brown sugar, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Spoon the sauce mixture over the pork chops in the skillet.
Bake, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the pork reads 145°F.
Let the pork chops stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

This is a very easy ‘mix and bake’ recipe that comes together in one pan, making it ideal for a busy weeknight.
Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable way to ensure the pork is cooked to a juicy and safe temperature without being overcooked.
Letting the cooked pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a more tender result.

Find it online: https://www.eatswithsoul.com/pork-chops-and-applesauce/