Stuffed pork chops are a hearty meal that’s sure to impress! Juicy pork is filled with a tasty mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices, making each bite deliciously flavorful.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a chop that comes with its own filling? I like to serve these with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad—it makes for a lovely dinner! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops add flavor and moisture, but you can use boneless chops if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times, as boneless chops cook faster.
Mushrooms: Cremini or button mushrooms are great, but if you’re not a fan, try spinach or cooked corn for a different stuffing. They add a nice twist!
Cheese: I love using mozzarella for its meltiness, but provolone works well too. For a sharper taste, you might even consider cheddar or feta.
Breadcrumbs: They create a lovely crust. Don’t have any? Crushed crackers or even panko can be great substitutes for that crispy finish!
How Do I Make a Perfect Stuffed Pocket in Pork Chops?
Creating a pocket for stuffing can be tricky, but here’s how to do it just right:
- Use a sharp knife and carefully cut horizontally into the side of each chop. Aim for a deep pocket without cutting through — about 3/4 of the way to the opposite side.
- Once cut, generously season both sides and the inside of the pocket to really flavor the meat.
Taking your time with this step ensures that the stuffing stays inside while cooking, which leads to a deliciously moist result. Trust me, it’s worth the effort!
How to Make Stuffed Pork Chops with Mushrooms and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 to 1.5 inches thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini or button mushrooms)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- 4 ounces mozzarella or provolone cheese, sliced or shredded
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth (optional, for pan sauce)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for crust)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep time and around 20-25 minutes for cooking and baking. You’ll be enjoying these flavorful stuffed pork chops in less than an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for your stuffed pork chops when they’re done cooking on the stove.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Using a sharp knife, carefully make a deep pocket in the side of each pork chop. You want to create a pocket without cutting all the way through. This is where the delicious stuffing will go!
3. Season the Chops:
Generously season both sides of the pork chops and the insides of the pocket with salt and pepper. This step is crucial for flavor!
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a skillet, add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter and heat over medium. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent. This usually takes around 3-5 minutes.
5. Cook the Mushrooms:
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and continue to cook for 5-7 minutes, until they’re softened and browned. They will add great flavor to your stuffing!
6. Add Garlic and Thyme:
Stir in the minced garlic and thyme leaves, cooking for another minute until everything smells wonderful. Remove from heat and let this mixture cool a bit.
7. Stuff the Pork Chops:
Once slightly cool, stuff each pork chop pocket with the mushroom and onion mixture, adding in slices of cheese. Press gently so the filling stays inside the chop.
8. Crust Option:
If you want an extra crispy finish, dip the stuffed chops in breadcrumbs after stuffing them.
9. Sear the Chops:
In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Place each stuffed pork chop in the skillet and sear until each side is golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
10. Bake the Chops:
Once seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven or move the pork chops to a baking dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
11. Serve Them Up:
Carefully remove the chops from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Place them on serving plates.
12. Make a Delicious Pan Sauce:
If desired, deglaze the skillet with white wine or chicken broth over medium heat to scrape up any leftover brown bits. Let it simmer to reduce slightly, then drizzle it over your pork chops.
13. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish each chop with a sprinkle of fresh thyme and parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Now enjoy your sumptuous and cheesy stuffed pork chops!
With these steps, you’ll create a mouthwatering dish that will impress family and friends alike. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! While bone-in pork chops provide extra flavor and moisture, boneless chops work just as well. Just be mindful that they cook a bit faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How Do I Store Leftover Stuffed Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove to maintain texture and flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Mushrooms?
If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can substitute them with cooked spinach, diced bell peppers, or even zucchini. Just sauté them until soft and mix with the onion and cheese before stuffing!
Can I Make These Chops Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed pork chops a few hours in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before searing and baking to ensure even cooking.