PORK CHOPS WITH SWEET POTATOES AND CARAMELIZED ONIONS

Sprinkle both sides of chops with sage, thyme, salt and pepper. Heat a little oil, just enough to cover bottom of pan, in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chops and brown both sides. Remove from pan and place in 13x9x2-inch baking dish. Reduce heat to medium; add onions and garlic cloves. Add a little more oil if needed. Cover with lid and sauté slowly, until dark brown, being very careful not to burn. (If garlic caramelizes before onions, remove from pan. A little water might need to be added while cooking to prevent burning.) Add onions, mashed caramelized garlic and more of the seasonings, about 1/4 teaspoon each of sage and thyme to sweet potatoes and combine well. Place potato mixture on top of chops. Deglaze the skillet with about 1/4-cup water; pour over casserole. Sprinkle with additional olive oil, about 1 tablespoon. Cover tightly. Bake in preheated 400° oven for 35 minutes or until potatoes are nearly tender. Remove lid and continue to bake for 10-15 minutes or until potatoes are tender.