Stuffed pork chops are a tasty treat! These juicy chops are filled with a yummy mix of herbs, cheese, and even some breadcrumbs for a nice crunch.
They’re perfect for dinner and will make your kitchen smell amazing! I love serving mine with a side of veggies. Trust me, everyone will be coming back for seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are best for flavor and moisture, but you can use boneless if that’s what you have. Just remember to watch the cooking time.
Cheese: Cream cheese brings a creamy texture, but you could substitute with ricotta or goat cheese for a different flavor. They all work great!
Bread Crumbs: I prefer using plain breadcrumbs for a neutral taste. For added flavor, try using seasoned breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers. Gluten-free options are also available.
Nuts: Walnuts add a lovely crunch, but any nut like pecans or almonds works. If you’re nut-free, just skip them or add extra breadcrumbs instead.
Herbs: Fresh thyme brings great flavor, but feel free to use dried thyme or other herbs like rosemary or oregano. Fresh herbs give a brighter taste!
How Do I Make Sure My Pork Chops Are Juicy and Tender?
Keeping pork chops juicy is all about cooking them properly. Start by seasoning the meat generously with salt and pepper. Then, searing the chops in a hot skillet creates a lovely crust, sealing in the juices.
- Make sure to sear both sides until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes each side.
- After searing, baking them in the oven ensures they cook evenly and remain moist. Keep a meat thermometer handy to check that they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Letting them rest for 5 minutes after baking is crucial! This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite juicy and delicious.
How to Make Stuffed Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1.5 inches thick
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional for crunch)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach or parsley
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine (for sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30-40 minutes of cooking time. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or impressing guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, take a sharp knife and carefully cut a pocket into the side of each pork chop, making sure not to cut through completely. This will be where you stuff all the delicious filling!
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Once your pockets are ready, season the pork chops generously on all sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This adds flavor to the meat itself.
3. Make the Stuffing:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re fragrant and translucent. This will make your stuffing really flavorful!
4. Combine the Stuffing Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic with breadcrumbs, chopped walnuts (if using), cream cheese, shredded cheese, chopped spinach (or parsley), and thyme. Stir everything together until it forms a nice, cohesive stuffing mix.
5. Stuff the Pork Chops:
Carefully fill each pork chop pocket with the stuffing mixture, pressing gently to fill them well without bursting the chop.
6. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the stuffed pork chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a lovely golden brown crust. This step helps lock in the juices and adds a great texture!
7. Bake the Pork Chops:
Transfer the seared pork chops to a baking dish. Pour the chicken broth or white wine around the chops to keep them moist while they bake. Then, pop them into your preheated oven.
8. Cook and Rest:
Let the pork chops bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep them juicy!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Spoon any pan juices over the chops and garnish with additional fresh herbs if you’d like. Serve warm alongside your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes.
Enjoy your delicious stuffed pork chops! They’ll be a hit at your dining table!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, boneless pork chops will work, but make sure they are thick enough to hold the stuffing. Keep in mind they may cook faster, so check their internal temperature early.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you don’t have cream cheese, you can use ricotta for a lighter option or goat cheese for a tangy twist. Both will still provide creaminess to the stuffing!
How Do I Store Leftover Stuffed Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Stuffed Pork Chops?
Absolutely! You can freeze uncooked stuffed pork chops. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in an airtight container. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.
