These stuffed pork chops are a tasty treat! Juicy pork is filled with delicious bread crumbs, herbs, and cheese, making each bite super flavorful. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Making these is easier than it looks! I usually just stuff, season, and bake. Plus, the smell while they cook is so good, it’s hard not to sneak a taste before serving! 😋
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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are ideal for this recipe as they stay juicy and flavorful. If you only have boneless chops, those work too. Just adjust cooking time slightly, as they may cook faster.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is perfect for this stuffing, offering great flavor and nutrition. If fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach — just make sure to thaw and drain it well first.
Cream Cheese: This adds a creamy texture. Neufchâtel cheese is a great lighter alternative if you want to cut down on calories. Sour cream can also work, but it will change the texture a bit.
Cheese: Mozzarella gives a lovely melt. For a different flavor, try using ricotta or even a sharper cheese like cheddar. Just remember that some cheeses melt differently.
Green Onions: They add a nice crunch and fresh taste. Regular onions can be substituted, but use them sparingly as they are more potent.
How Do I Make the Perfect Pocket in My Pork Chops?
Creating a pocket for stuffing takes some care to avoid cutting through completely. Here are tips for achieving this:
- Use a sharp knife. It makes the process smoother and safer.
- Hold the chop firmly and slice horizontally, angling the knife towards the center of the chop.
- Check once or twice to see how deep you’re cutting. You’ll want to leave about half an inch at the bottom.
- Once the pocket is made, ensure there’s enough space to pack in the filling without bursting it.
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How to Make Stuffed Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffing:
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup green onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 30-40 minutes to cook, depending on your oven. You’ll be able to savor tender, cheesy stuffed pork chops in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will ensure your pork chops cook evenly and have a delicious crust.
2. Sauté the Spinach:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once it’s hot, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, until you can smell that lovely aroma. Next, add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for approximately 2-3 minutes until it’s wilted. Once done, remove it from heat and let it cool for a few moments.
3. Make the Cheese Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, chopped green onion, and season it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything together until it’s all well incorporated. This tasty filling will be the star of the dish!
4. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take each pork chop and, using a sharp knife, carefully slice horizontally to create a pocket inside, making sure not to cut all the way through. Once you have the pockets, stuff each one with the cheese and spinach mixture. If the opening is wide, use toothpicks to secure them.
5. Sear the Pork Chops:
Season the outside of each stuffed pork chop with a little more salt and pepper. Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, and once it’s hot, sear the stuffed pork chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown. This step adds flavor and texture!
6. Bake the Chops:
Transfer your skillet with the pork chops into the preheated oven. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). This ensures your pork chops are cooked perfectly!
7. Rest and Garnish:
Once they are done baking, remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy! Before serving, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a touch of color and freshness.
Enjoy your delicious stuffed pork chops!
Can I Substitute the Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use low-fat cream cheese or substitute the mozzarella with cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to keep the same total amount of cheese to maintain the texture of the filling.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the stuffing and stuff the pork chops a day in advance. Just store the stuffed chops in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. When ready to cook, simply sear and bake as directed, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time if they’re still cold from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave them on a plate covered with a damp paper towel for about 2-3 minutes, checking for warmth.
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops will work just fine! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as boneless chops might cook faster. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure they are cooked through but still juicy.
