If you’re looking for an impressive and delicious dish to elevate your dinner table, look no further than baked stuffed pork chops. This recipe combines succulent pork chops with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. The result is a flavorful and satisfying meal that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Now, let’s dive into the details of this baked stuffed pork chops recipe.
1. Best Baked Stuffed Pork Chops Recipe
Ingredients
For the Pork Chops
- 4 thick-cut boneless pork chops (1.5 inches thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Filling
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried basil. Mix until fully incorporated. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Prepare the Pork Chops
Using a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket in each pork chop by slicing horizontally through the thickest part, leaving the sides intact. Avoid cutting all the way through.
Stuff the Pork Chops
Divide the filling evenly and stuff each pork chop, securing the openings with toothpicks. Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Sear the Pork Chops
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
Bake
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C).
Rest and Serve
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Tips for Perfect Baked Stuffed Pork Chops
Use Thick-Cut Pork Chops: Thick-cut pork chops are essential for creating a proper pocket for the filling. Thin chops may tear or fail to hold the filling properly.
Secure the Filling: Use toothpicks to keep the stuffing intact while cooking. This prevents the filling from spilling out during searing or baking.
Sear Before Baking: Don’t skip the step searing the pork chops before baking. This step locks in juices and enhances the presentation.
Don’t Overstuff: Avoid overloading the chops with filling. Overstuffing can cause them to tear, and the filling may leak out.
Check Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This ensures the pork chops is safe to eat while remaining tender and juicy.
Let Them Rest: Allowing the pork chops to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps redistribute the juices, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
3. What to Serve with Baked Stuffed Pork Chops
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy and buttery texture of garlic mashed potatoes complements the savory filling and juicy pork. This pairing creates a comforting and hearty meal.
Steamed Green Beans: Green beans add a crisp, fresh element to the plate, balancing the richness of the stuffed pork chops.
Wild Rice Pilaf: The nutty flavor of wild rice pairs beautifully with the Mediterranean-inspired filling, enhancing the dish’s complexity.
Roasted Carrots: Sweet and caramelized roasted carrots offer a naturally sweet contrast to the savory pork chops.
Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with tangy dressing adds a refreshing bite to the meal while keeping it light and balanced.
Baked stuffed pork chops recipe in the oven is a fantastic way to transform ordinary pork chops into a culinary masterpiece. The combination of creamy spinach filling and well-seasoned pork creates a dish of flavors that will impress your family and guests. With a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish right in your own kitchen.
