'Grandma’s Holiday Hug'—every bite tastes like Christmas love from the family tree!

There's something about the combination of pork and apples that feels like a warm hug on a chilly Midwestern evening. This slow cooker pork and apple casserole is a nod to my childhood, where my mom would often make a similar dish during the fall. It's perfect for those busy weekdays when you want to come home to a hearty, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you free to focus on your day.

This casserole pairs beautifully with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a crusty loaf of bread to soak up the delicious juices. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish. If you're feeling indulgent, a glass of crisp cider or a light white wine would complement the apple notes perfectly.

Servings: 4

2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into chunks
2 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup apple cider
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the pork with salt and pepper, then brown the chunks on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Transfer the browned pork to the slow cooker.

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.

Add the sautéed onion and garlic to the slow cooker, along with the sliced apples.

In a bowl, mix together the chicken broth, apple cider, Dijon mustard, and dried thyme. Pour this mixture over the pork and apples in the slow cooker.

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and the flavors have melded together.

Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

For a bit of spice, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of smoked paprika to the broth mixture. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the casserole about 30 minutes before serving. You can also add root vegetables like carrots or parsnips to the slow cooker for added depth and nutrition. For a sweeter touch, try using honeycrisp or gala apples.