Introduction:

Looking for a mouthwatering dish that combines savory and sweet? Try Maple Glazed Pork Chops with Roasted Butternut Squash! This flavorful recipe features tender pork chops glazed with a sweet and savory maple syrup mixture, paired with caramelized roasted butternut squash. It’s a perfect choice for a cozy dinner or a special occasion meal.

Reasons to Love This Recipe:

Sweet and Savory Delight: The maple glaze provides a perfect balance of sweetness, enhanced with soy sauce and Dijon mustard.
Seasonal Flavors: Roasted butternut squash adds a rich, earthy flavor that complements the pork chops perfectly.
Quick and Easy: Ready in less than an hour, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Maple Glazed Pork Chops:

4 boneless pork chops
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Roasted Butternut Squash:

1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste

Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions:

For the Pork Chops: You can add a touch of balsamic vinegar to the glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
For the Squash: Swap thyme with rosemary for a different herbal note, or try adding a sprinkle of brown sugar for a caramelized finish.

Tools You’ll Need:

Skillet for cooking the pork chops
Whisk for the maple glaze
Baking sheet for roasting squash
Parchment paper for easy clean-up

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Prepare the Maple Glazed Pork Chops:
- In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
- Pour the maple syrup mixture over the pork chops. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, spooning the glaze over the chops, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Prepare the Roasted Butternut Squash:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the cubed squash with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the squash in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
Serve:
- Plate the maple glazed pork chops with the roasted butternut squash on the side. Serve immediately and enjoy!

What to Serve with Maple Glazed Pork Chops:

Pair this dish with a side of steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. You could also serve it with rice or quinoa for a hearty option.

How to Store Maple Glazed Pork Chops:

Store any leftover pork chops and roasted butternut squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I Freeze Maple Glazed Pork Chops?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked pork chops and butternut squash separately for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or skillet.

Resources

Bon Appétit

Allrecipes

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe? Yes, bone-in pork chops can be used. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the pork is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 145°F/63°C).

Can I make the glaze ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the maple glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 350 kcal
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 25g
Fiber: 5g

Conclusion:

Maple Glazed Pork Chops is a dish that’s both simple to make and full of flavor. With its blend of sweet maple glaze and tender roasted squash, it’s sure to be a hit at your next meal. Give it a try and enjoy the perfect harmony of flavors!