Skillet

Pork And Bacon Skillet With Apples

Name: Pork And Bacon Skillet With Apples
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) pork chops, boneless; 6 slices of thick-cut bacon; 2 large onions, sliced; 3 cloves of garlic, minced; 2 large apples, sliced; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

By Amara Hartwell · June 19, 2026 · Skillet

Prep20 min

Cook40 min

Total60 min

Serves4

Pork And Bacon Skillet With Apples — Savory Pork And Bacon Skillet

There's something undeniably comforting about a warm, smoky skillet filled with pork, bacon, and the sweetness of apples. This dish is more than just a meal; it's an experience that brings back memories of cozy nights by the fireplace or lazy Sunday afternoons with family and friends.

I remember the first time I made this recipe for my family. The combination of flavors and textures was a hit, and it quickly became a staple in our household. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the use of accessible ingredients, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks alike.

What makes this Pork And Bacon Skillet With Apples so special is the way it balances smokiness with sweetness, and the tender texture of the pork paired with the crunch of the bacon. It's a dish that's both comforting and exciting, perfect for any occasion.

This recipe is designed to be approachable, using ingredients that are easily found in most grocery stores. The steps are straightforward, and with a little patience, you'll be enjoying a delicious, homemade meal that's sure to impress.

Whether you're cooking for a family dinner, a special occasion, or just a quiet night in, this Pork And Bacon Skillet With Apples is sure to become a favorite. It's a testament to the power of simple, well-cooked ingredients coming together to create something truly special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal preparation and cooking time.
It's a family-friendly dish that is sure to please both kids and adults with its comforting flavors.
The combination of pork, bacon, and apples makes it a budget-friendly option, as it uses affordable ingredients.
It's perfect for make-ahead meals, as it can be prepared in advance and reheated when needed.
The dish is very versatile and can be served in various settings, from casual weeknight dinners to special occasions.
It's a crowd-pleasing recipe that serves a good number of people, making it ideal for gatherings and parties.

Why This Recipe Works

The success of this recipe hinges on a few key principles: the slow rendering of fat from the bacon to create a rich, smoky base, the careful cooking of the pork to achieve tender, juicy meat, and the balance of flavors achieved by adding the apples at just the right moment.

The technique of starting with a cold pan and gradually increasing the heat allows for the bacon to render its fat slowly, creating a crispy exterior and a tender interior. This method also prevents the bacon from burning, which can quickly turn the dish bitter.

Cooking the pork in the same skillet, after the bacon has been removed, utilizes the leftover fat for added flavor. The key is to not overcrowd the skillet, ensuring each piece of pork has enough room to cook evenly. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.

The addition of apples towards the end of the cooking process introduces a pop of color and a burst of freshness, cutting through the richness of the pork and bacon. The choice of apple variety is also important, as firmer apples like Granny Smith hold their shape better when cooked.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to the ingredients for this Pork And Bacon Skillet With Apples, quality matters. Look for thick-cut bacon that's smoked for added depth of flavor, and opt for pork chops that are about an inch thick to ensure they stay juicy throughout the cooking process. For the apples, choose a variety that holds its shape when cooked, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.

A good tip for shopping is to buy ingredients in season. Not only will they taste better, but they'll also be more affordable. Don't hesitate to ask your butcher for recommendations on the best cuts of pork, and consider visiting a local farmer's market for the freshest produce.

1 lb (450g) pork chops, bonelessLook for thick-cut pork chops, about an inch in thickness, to ensure they remain juicy throughout cooking. Boneless chops are preferred for even cooking and ease of serving.
6 slices of thick-cut baconThick-cut, smoked bacon is ideal for this recipe, as it provides a richer flavor and a better texture. Smoked bacon adds a deep, smoky flavor that complements the pork and apples perfectly.
2 large onions, slicedChoose onions that are firm and have no signs of sprouting. Slicing the onions thinly helps them cook more evenly and quickly, adding a sweet, caramelized flavor to the dish.
3 cloves of garlic, mincedFresh garlic is essential for this recipe, as it adds a pungency that balances the sweetness of the apples and the smokiness of the bacon. Mince the garlic finely to ensure it distributes evenly throughout the dish.
2 large apples, slicedApples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are perfect for this recipe, as they hold their shape when cooked and provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness. Slice the apples just before adding them to the skillet to prevent browning.
1/2 cup chicken brothLow-sodium chicken broth is recommended to control the salt content of the dish. It helps to keep the pork moist and adds flavor to the skillet.
1 tablespoon olive oilOlive oil is used for its mild flavor and high smoke point, making it ideal for sautéing the onions and garlic. Choose a good quality olive oil for the best flavor.
1 teaspoon dried thymeDried thyme is preferred over fresh for its convenience and longer shelf life. It adds a herbal, slightly minty flavor that complements the pork and bacon beautifully.
1/2 teaspoon saltKosher salt is recommended for its mild flavor and ease of use. It enhances the flavors of the other ingredients without overpowering them.
1/4 teaspoon black pepperFreshly ground black pepper is best, as it has a more vibrant flavor than pre-ground pepper. It adds a sharp, peppery flavor that balances the richness of the dish.

Ingredients for Pork And Bacon Skillet With Apples

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or cast-iron panSharp chef's knifeCutting boardInstant-read thermometerTongs or spatula for turning the pork and baconWooden spoon for stirring

How to Make Pork And Bacon Skillet With Apples

1
Begin by preparing the ingredients. Slice the onions and apples, mince the garlic, and cut the pork chops into manageable pieces if necessary.
2
In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat. Start with a cold pan and gradually increase the heat to render the fat slowly and achieve crispy bacon. This step should take about 10-12 minutes, or until the bacon is golden brown and crispy.
3
Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. Leave the grease in the skillet, as it will be used to cook the pork.
4
Add the sliced onions to the skillet with the bacon fat and cook until they are translucent and starting to caramelize, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
5
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning.
6
Add the pork chops to the skillet, cooking for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to a safe temperature.
7
Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.
8
Add the sliced apples to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they start to soften and brown slightly.
9
Add the chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced slightly and the apples are coated in the flavorful sauce.
10
Return the cooked bacon to the skillet, stirring to combine with the apples and sauce.
11
Serve the pork chops with the apple and bacon mixture spooned over the top. Garnish with additional thyme if desired.

Expert Tips

To enhance the smoky flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the pork chops before cooking.
For an extra crispy crust on the pork, pat the chops dry with a paper towel before cooking and increase the heat to high for the last minute of cooking on each side.
If using a different type of apple, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Softer apples like Red Delicious will cook more quickly than firmer varieties.
To make ahead, cook the pork and bacon, then refrigerate or freeze until ready to serve. Reheat the pork in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Consider serving with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
For a spicy kick, add a diced jalapeño pepper to the skillet with the onions and garlic.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the skillet, which can lead to uneven cooking and a lack of browning on the pork and bacon.
Not cooking the pork to the correct internal temperature, which can result in undercooked or overcooked meat.
Not letting the pork rest before slicing, which can cause the juices to run out and the meat to become dry.
Adding the apples too early, which can cause them to become mushy and overcooked.
Not stirring the onions and garlic frequently enough, which can lead to burning and a bitter flavor.
Using low-quality ingredients, which can affect the overall flavor and texture of the dish.

Variations and Substitutions

Substitute the pork chops with pork tenderloin or pork shoulder for a different texture and flavor.
Add some diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the skillet with the onions for added flavor and nutrition.
Use different types of apples, such as Honeycrisp or Fuji, for a sweeter flavor.
Add a splash of apple cider vinegar to the sauce for a tangy flavor.
Serve the dish with a side of roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes for a hearty, comforting meal.
Try using different seasonings, such as garlic powder or onion powder, to add more depth to the dish.
For a spicy version, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the skillet.

What to Serve With Pork And Bacon Skillet With Apples

This Pork And Bacon Skillet With Apples is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Consider serving it with a side of roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, for a balanced and nutritious meal. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is also a great way to cut the richness of the dish.

For a more comforting meal, serve the pork and apple mixture over mashed potatoes or egg noodles. The smoky flavor of the bacon pairs perfectly with the earthiness of the potatoes or the simplicity of the noodles.

Roasted Brussels sproutsMashed potatoesEgg noodlesSimple green saladGrilled asparagusSautéed spinach

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility when it comes to making it ahead of time. The pork and bacon can be cooked and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. When reheating, simply place the pork in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

To freeze, allow the pork and bacon to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as desired.

The apple and sauce mixture can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to a day. Reheat it gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

When storing leftovers, make sure to cool them to room temperature within 2 hours of cooking, then refrigerate or freeze promptly. Always reheat to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pork chops are best for this recipe?

Thick-cut, boneless pork chops are ideal for this recipe, as they stay juicy and cook evenly. Look for chops that are about an inch thick.

Can I use different types of apples?

Yes, you can use different types of apples, such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith. Each variety will add its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.

How do I prevent the pork from becoming dry?

To prevent the pork from becoming dry, make sure to not overcook it. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Letting the pork rest for a few minutes before slicing also helps to retain its juices.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

While this recipe is designed for stovetop cooking, you can adapt it for a slow cooker. Brown the bacon and pork in a skillet, then transfer everything to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

What are some good side dishes to serve with this recipe?

Some good side dishes to serve with this recipe include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or a simple green salad. The key is to find a balance between the richness of the pork and bacon and the lightness of the side dish.

Can I freeze the cooked pork and bacon?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked pork and bacon. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as desired.

How do I reheat the pork and bacon without drying it out?

To reheat the pork and bacon without drying it out, place it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the meat to become dry and tough.

Can I make this recipe for a large crowd?

Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe to feed a large crowd. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as larger quantities of pork and bacon will take longer to cook.

The Full Recipe

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