Prepare to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with these mouthwatering Almost Stuffed Pork Chops! Imagine cutting into a perfectly seasoned pork chop and discovering a delectable stuffing that's bursting with flavor in every single bite. This recipe is about to become your new go-to meal that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're a home cook looking to impress or simply craving a delicious, hearty dinner, these Almost Stuffed Pork Chops are guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds and elevate your weeknight cooking game.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1 cup stuffing mix
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil or cooking spray.
- In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions and celery until they become soft and translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the stuffing mix and chicken broth. Add the sautéed onions and celery, stirring until the stuffing mix is evenly moistened and holds together.
- Using a sharp knife, create a horizontal pocket in each pork chop by cutting into the side of the chop, being careful not to cut all the way through. Season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper.
- Gently stuff each pork chop with the prepared stuffing mixture, pressing carefully to distribute evenly without tearing the meat.
- Place the stuffed pork chops in the prepared baking dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of cooking to allow the tops to brown slightly.
- Remove from oven and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your Almost Stuffed Pork Chops.
Tips
- Choose thick-cut pork chops (about 1-inch thick) for the best stuffing pocket and juiciest results.
- Use a sharp knife and cut slowly when creating the pocket to avoid tearing the meat.
- Make sure to not overstuff the pork chops, as this can cause the stuffing to leak out during cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches the safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes after cooking to help retain their moisture and make them more tender.
- For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or sage to your stuffing mix.
- If you prefer a crispier top, you can briefly broil the pork chops for 1-2 minutes after removing the foil.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 169kcal
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 20mg
