Why You’ll Love this Stuffed Pork Chops Recipe
You’ll love this stuffed pork chops recipe because it combines savory and sweet flavors in every bite. The juicy pork pairs perfectly with the tender, apple-infused stuffing, creating a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist.
Each chop is generously filled, ensuring you won’t miss a single mouthwatering moment. Plus, the blend of spices and fresh ingredients elevates the dish to a whole new level.
I promise you’ll find it’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that warms the soul. Serve it up for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, and watch everyone ask for seconds!
Ingredients of Stuffed Pork Chops
When it comes to making delicious stuffed pork chops, having the right ingredients is key. You want to gather a mix of savory and sweet items that will come together to create a mouthwatering dish. From juicy pork chops to the delightful apple filling, each ingredient plays a special role in crafting a memorable meal.
Plus, the blend of spices adds that extra kick that makes every bite exciting. So, let’s explore what you’ll need for this scrumptious recipe.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium apples, coarsely chopped
- 7 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon rubbed sage
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 6 pork chops (1-3/4″ thick)
- 3/4 lb ground pork
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 can diced green chilis
- 1 cup pork or chicken stock
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup finely chopped green onion
Now that you have your ingredients listed out, let’s chat a bit about them. First off, don’t be afraid to mix it up a little. If you’re not a fan of green bell peppers, feel free to swap them for something you enjoy more, like red peppers or even mushrooms.
And if you want to add a bit more heat, a pinch of extra cayenne pepper could do the trick. Also, when it comes to the apples, choose a variety that holds up well when cooked, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. This will guarantee you get that perfect balance of sweet and tart in your stuffing.
How to Make Stuffed Pork Chops
When it comes to making stuffed pork chops, the first step is to create that heavenly apple filling. Start by taking 2 medium apples, coarsely chopped, and tossing them into a food processor or blender. Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 3 tablespoons of light brown sugar, a teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a half teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Blend this mixture until it’s smooth—about 3 to 4 minutes should do the trick. Just imagine the sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen; it’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
Once that’s ready, set it aside and let it cool while you prepare the rest of the stuffing.
Next, let’s get down to business with the pork chops. Grab 6 pork chops that are about 1-3/4 inches thick. With a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the larger side of each chop, making sure you don’t slice all the way through—this is where all the magic happens.
Now, heat up a large skillet over high heat and melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Toss in 3/4 lb of ground pork and brown it for about 3 minutes. After that, add a cup of chopped onion, a cup of chopped green bell pepper, and 2 teaspoons of minced garlic, along with 2 tablespoons of your seasoning mix. Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll want to scrape the bottom of the pan to get all those delicious bits; trust me, they add flavor.
Once everything is nicely browned, stir in a can of diced green chilis and their juice, cooking for another 6 to 8 minutes. Finally, pour in 1 cup of pork or chicken stock and let it simmer for 5 minutes before mixing in 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs.
Now comes the fun part—stuffing the chops! Sprinkle the remaining seasoning mix all over the pork chops, both inside and out, pressing it in so you really get that flavor locked in. Prop those chops up with the pocket side facing up in a 13×9-inch baking pan and start spooning about 1/4 cup of the stuffing into each pocket. You might end up with some extra stuffing, and that’s totally fine; it’ll get reheated later.
Bake the chops in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 1 hour and 10 minutes. In the last 20 minutes, place the remaining stuffing in a small pan in the oven to warm it up.
When it’s all done, serve each chop on top of a portion of the stuffing, and watch everyone’s faces light up at the dinner table. Oh, and don’t be surprised if you get asked for seconds—this dish is just that good.
Stuffed Pork Chops Substitutions & Variations
While the classic stuffed pork chops recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to contemplate that can elevate your dish even further.
You might swap ground pork for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Instead of apples, try pears or even dried cranberries for a sweet twist. For a kick, add jalapeños to the stuffing.
If you want a healthier touch, use whole wheat breadcrumbs or skip them altogether. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can enhance the flavor.
Don’t hesitate to experiment and make the dish your own! Enjoy your culinary adventure!
What to Serve with Stuffed Pork Chops
To enhance your meal experience, pairing your stuffed pork chops with complementary sides can really elevate the dish.
I love serving them with a simple garlic mashed potato or creamy polenta, as they soak up any delicious juices. A side of sautéed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts adds a nice crunch and freshness that balances the richness of the pork.
For something a bit sweeter, a warm apple or pear salad can contrast beautifully with the savory flavors.
Finally, don’t forget a light, tangy salad to brighten up the plate and round out the meal.
Enjoy your feast!
Additional Tips & Notes
Although stuffed pork chops are delicious on their own, there are a few additional tips that can take your dish to the next level.
First, let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps retain the juices. You can also experiment with different stuffing ingredients, like adding dried cranberries or nuts for texture and flavor.
If you prefer a bit more heat, consider increasing the cayenne pepper. Finally, don’t skip on the seasoning; it’s essential for flavor.
Serve these chops with a fresh salad or roasted veggies for a balanced meal that everyone will love!