Stuffed pork chops are a fantastic way to elevate a classic dinner with juicy meat and flavorful fillings. If you’re wondering how to cook stuffed pork chops in the oven, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know-from prepping the chops to baking them perfectly.
Choosing Your Pork Chops
For stuffed pork chops, thickness matters. Aim for chops at least 1 to 1.5 inches thick to hold the stuffing well and stay juicy during baking. Bone-in chops are preferred because the bone adds flavor and helps keep the meat tender.
Preparing the Pork Chops for Stuffing
- Create a pocket: Carefully slice a pocket into the side of each pork chop without cutting all the way through. This pocket will hold your stuffing.
- Season: Salt and pepper both sides of the chops to enhance flavor. You can also add herbs like thyme or Italian seasoning for extra aroma.
Making the Stuffing
Stuffing can vary widely, but a classic savory bread stuffing with sautéed onions, celery, and herbs is a crowd-pleaser.
– Sauté butter, onion, celery, and any additional veggies or fruits (like cranberries or carrots) until tender.
– Mix the sautéed veggies with bread cubes, broth, and seasoning. The mixture should be moist but hold together well.
– Optional: Add cheese, pesto, or mushrooms for different flavor profiles.
Stuffing the Pork Chops
Gently fill each pork chop pocket with the stuffing, being careful not to tear the meat. You can use toothpicks to secure the opening if needed.
Cooking the Stuffed Pork Chops in the Oven
Step 1: Sear the Pork Chops (Optional but Recommended)
Quickly sear the pork chops in a hot skillet with some oil for 3-4 minutes per side. This step locks in juices and gives a beautiful golden crust.
Step 2: Bake
– Preheat your oven to between 325°F and 400°F depending on the recipe (350°F is common).
– Place the stuffed pork chops in a baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
– Bake uncovered for about 18 to 25 minutes, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (measured at the thickest part of the chop).
Avoid covering the pork chops during baking if you want the stuffing to crisp up nicely on top.
Step 3: Rest
Remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 3-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender, juicy meat.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Pork Chops
– Dry your bread cubes ahead: Let bread cubes dry for a day or two to prevent soggy stuffing.
– Don’t overcook: Use a meat thermometer to avoid drying out your chops. Pork is safe at 145°F with a 3-minute rest.
– Sauté stuffing veggies well: Since the stuffing won’t cook much in the oven, make sure vegetables are tender before stuffing.
– Use bone-in chops if possible: They retain moisture better and add flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Since stuffed pork chops already contain a flavorful filling, keep sides simple. A fresh salad, steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted sweet potatoes complement the dish beautifully.
Stuffed pork chops baked in the oven are an easy yet impressive meal. With the right preparation and timing, you’ll enjoy juicy pork filled with delicious stuffing every time. Ready to try your own?