These juicy stuffed pork chops are a tasty treat! They’re filled with a mix of breadcrumbs, herbs, and cheese, making every bite super flavorful.
Honestly, who can resist a perfectly cooked pork chop? I love serving them with a side of mashed potatoes for a cozy dinner. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Thick-cut bone-in chops are best here for juiciness. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops will work too, but they may dry out faster. Choose chops that are at least 1.5 inches thick for more flavor.
Cheese: I use cream cheese for creaminess, along with mozzarella and Parmesan for depth. If you’re lactose intolerant, consider dairy-free cream cheese and shredded vegan cheese alternatives.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a bright flavor. You could substitute it with kale or frozen spinach (make sure to drain it well). For a twist, consider adding cooked mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor.
Herbs: Fresh herbs are key for a vibrant taste. If you don’t have fresh thyme or rosemary, dried herbs will work, but use less since dried herbs are more potent. You could also try sage or even Italian seasoning.
How Do I Perfectly Stuff and Cook My Pork Chops?
Stuffing pork chops can feel tricky, but it’s quite simple with a few steps. First, make a pocket carefully: use a sharp knife and cut into the side of the pork chop without going all the way through. This will help hold the filling securely.
- Searing: Heat oil and butter before adding chops. This step is essential for a nice golden crust. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side—don’t rush it!
- Baking: After searing, transfer the skillet to the oven. This helps cook the chops evenly. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; reach 145°F for perfectly cooked pork.
- Resting: Let the pork chops rest after baking. This keeps the juices locked in for a tender bite when you cut into them.
Trust me, these tips will take your stuffed pork chops to the next level. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Stuffed Pork Chops with Herb and Cheese Filling
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 thick-cut bone-in pork chops (about 1.5 to 2 inches thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine for securing pork chops
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 20-25 minutes to cook, plus a 5-minute resting time after baking. So, in total, you’ll need around 35-40 minutes for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, take a sharp knife to each pork chop and carefully cut a pocket into the side—just be careful not to cut all the way through!
2. Season the Chops:
Generously season both sides of the pork chops and the insides of the pockets with salt and pepper. This adds great flavor throughout!
3. Make the Filling:
In a bowl, mix together the chopped spinach, softened cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, parsley, and optional lemon juice. Stir until everything is well combined.
4. Stuff the Chops:
Take that delicious cheese and herb mixture and stuff it into each pork chop pocket. Make sure to fill them well but not overstuff them. Secure the openings with toothpicks or kitchen twine so the filling stays put.
5. Sear the Chops:
Heat the olive oil and butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This adds a wonderful flavor!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Rest and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes. This helps them stay juicy. To serve, plate the chops and spoon any melted cheese filling over the top, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy!
These stuffed pork chops will surely impress—with cheesy goodness and tender juicy meat, they make for a great meal any night of the week!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match cheeses. Cheddar or gouda could be great alternatives or you can even use feta for a tangy twist.
Can I Make These Stuffed Pork Chops Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed pork chops a few hours ahead of time. Just cover them and store in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, allow them to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before searing and baking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave until warmed through.
What Can I Serve With Stuffed Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with a light sauce or gravy if you’d like!
