Pork Chops and Apples

This is one of my all-time favorite recipes. I've been making this for years and every time I make it, it's always a hit. I love this recipe because there really is not much to it, as it takes very little time to prepare and cook. Not to mention, it has amazing flavor and is such an attractive dish to serve. I like to serve these pork chops in the center of a bed of mashed potatoes. With the apples and butter mixture to top, it makes for a heartwarming, tasty meal. 'Smashed potatoes' are a great pairing, too. Of course, these chops are just as wonderful on their own {without the potato as it's side-kick}, so, either way, you will enjoy this mouthwatering recipe.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless pork chops, rinsed
• 1 stick butter {1/2 cup}, cut into 5 squares
  
• 2 tsp garlic, minced
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 2 apples, washed and cored and cut into 8 to 10 slices each {not too thin as they will get mushy. I leave peel on}.
  

1. In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter, garlic, salt and pepper together. When bubbles start to form, add pork chops. Cook pork chops for two to three minutes on each side, until the outside of the chop starts to turn white.
   
2. Combine the apples on top of pork and along side of pork in the butter mixture. Cover and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, occasionally turning chops and apples. For thicker chops, cook for 15 to 20 minutes.
   
3. Serve each pork chop with 4 to 5 apple slices on top. Use a ladle or large spoon to top the apples and pork with the extra juices from the pan {for flavor and moisture}.

Enjoy!

"Pork, also known as 'the other white meat', was introduced in the 1980's. This meat is safe to eat when cooked to an internal temperature of 160 degrees F and the juices run a very light pink."