Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your dinner table into a haven of mouthwatering flavors! These Baked Pork Chops with Bread Dressing are not just a meal – they're a nostalgic embrace of home-cooked goodness that will have your family begging for seconds. Imagine tender, juicy pork chops stuffed with a savory, herb-infused bread dressing that melts in your mouth, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that will make even the pickiest eaters swoon.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 2 cups bread crumbs
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine bread crumbs, chopped onion, sage, salt, and pepper. Slowly pour in chicken broth and mix until the bread crumbs are evenly moistened and hold together.
- Season the pork chops on both sides with salt and pepper. Create a shallow pocket in each chop by carefully cutting a slit horizontally through the side of the meat, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each pork chop with the prepared bread dressing, pressing gently to ensure the filling stays inside. Use toothpicks to secure the opening if needed.
- Place the stuffed pork chops in the prepared baking dish. If there's any remaining dressing, spread it around the chops in the dish.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the pork chops are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the chops rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks if used.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley if desired. Pair with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork chops reach the perfect internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This guarantees juicy, perfectly cooked meat every time.
- Bread Dressing Secrets: Use day-old bread for the best texture in your dressing. The slightly stale bread absorbs the chicken broth more effectively, creating a more flavorful and cohesive filling.
- Stuffing Technique: When creating the pocket in your pork chops, use a sharp knife and cut horizontally, being careful not to pierce through the entire chop. This helps keep the delicious dressing inside during cooking.
- Moisture Magic: Covering the dish with foil for the first part of baking helps keep the pork chops moist and prevents them from drying out.
- Resting is Crucial: Let the chops rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is as succulent as possible.
- Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or even some dried cranberries to the bread dressing for a personal touch that makes the recipe uniquely yours.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 336kcal
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 26g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 80mg
