Braised Pork and Apple Casserole Recipe – A Perfect Fall Comfort Food Dish
Fall is the perfect time to try heart-warming recipes that are comforting, delicious, and easy to make. And when it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a flavorful and hearty casserole dish. A casserole is a one-pot dish that is simple to prepare and can feed a crowd. One of the best fall casserole dishes is braised pork and apple casserole. It’s a mouthwatering recipe that combines savory pork, sweet apples and a variety of herbs and spices, making it the perfect dish to usher in the fall season.
The Ingredients
To make this delicious braised pork and apple casserole, you will need a few ingredients. The measures provided below should be enough to serve four people.
- 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cubed
- 1 pound Granny Smith apples, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
The Preparation
To make the braised pork and apple casserole, follow these simple steps:
Step 1 – Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2 – Brown the Pork
Heat the oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork and brown it on all sides for about 5 minutes.
Step 3 – Add Garlic and Spices
Next, reduce the heat to medium and add the garlic, smoked paprika, and ground cinnamon to the skillet and sauté for a minute.
Step 4 – Add Apples and Broth
Add the cubed Granny Smith apples to the skillet and stir for a couple of minutes. Then, pour the chicken broth over the pork and apples to create a sauce.
Step 5 – Bake in the Oven
Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 90 minutes, or until the pork is tender and cooked through. You can also check the internal temperature of the pork, which should be around 145°F (63°C).
Step 6 – Serve and Enjoy
Let the dish cool for a few minutes and then sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and serve hot alongside some mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.
The Health Benefits of Braised Pork and Apple Casserole
This dish is jam-packed with all the good stuff that our body needs. Pork is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building strong muscles and tissue. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals like B vitamins, phosphorus, and zinc. Apples, on the other hand, are an excellent source of fiber, which helps to promote digestion and keep you full for longer periods. Additionally, they are packed with antioxidants that help to prevent cell damage and maintain a healthy immune system.
Variations of Braised Pork and Apple Casserole
You can customize this dish to your liking by adding other ingredients that complement the flavors of pork and apple. Some popular variations include:
- Adding a splash of apple cider vinegar for an extra tangy flavor
- Adding chopped sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a more robust and filling meal
- Adding sliced onions and carrots to amp up the veggies and nutrition
- Substituting the pork with chicken, beef, or tofu for a vegetarian option
- Serving the dish over a bed of greens like spinach, arugula, or watercress to create a delicious salad bowl
The Bottom Line
Braised pork and apple casserole is a must-try recipe that is perfect for fall or when you’re just craving a warm and hearty meal. With a few simple ingredients and easy instructions, you can whip up a delicious and nutritious dish that the whole family will love. Plus, you can customize it to your liking by adding your favorite ingredients. So, what are you waiting for? Head to your nearest grocery store and get all the ingredients to make this delicious casserole dish today!