These stuffed pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! Each chop is filled with a tasty mixture of herbs, breadcrumbs, and cheese that makes every bite special.
Honestly, you can’t go wrong with these beauties. They’re like having a delicious hug on your plate! I love serving them with some mashed potatoes; it’s the perfect match! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless, thick pork chops are best for this recipe. They stay juicy while cooking. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using turkey breast cutlets instead. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as turkey can dry out quicker.
Cheeses: I love using ricotta for its creamy texture, but you can swap it for cream cheese or cottage cheese if you prefer something different. For mozzarella, feel free to use your favorite melting cheese. Cheddar works wonderfully too!
Herbs: Fresh herbs brighten the dish! If you can’t find fresh thyme or parsley, dried herbs work well in a pinch—just use about a third of the amount. Italian seasoning is a great alternative too if you’re out of separate herbs.
Breadcrumbs: The breadcrumbs add texture, but they’re optional. You can skip them or use panko for a crunchier bite. For a gluten-free option, just substitute with ground almonds or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
How Do You Properly Stuff Pork Chops Without Making a Mess?
Stuffing pork chops can be tricky, but with a few tips, it’ll be a breeze! Here’s how to make it easier:
- Use a sharp knife to create a pocket carefully, cutting along one side without going all the way through.
- Season the inside of the pocket to ensure flavor throughout. I like to add a bit of salt and pepper here.
- When stuffing, use a spoon or your hands to press the filling in gently, making sure it’s packed but not overflowing.
- Secure the pocket with toothpicks if needed, but be cautious when serving. Just remember to remove them!
Taking your time with these steps will help you achieve beautifully stuffed pork chops every time!
Stuffed Pork Chops Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops, about 1.5 inches thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Stuffing:
- 3/4 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for added texture)
For Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary)
Time Needed:
You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and around 30 minutes of cooking time, resulting in a total of about 40 minutes to enjoy these delicious stuffed pork chops. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot enough when you’re ready to bake the chops!
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take a sharp knife and cut a pocket into each pork chop by slicing horizontally through the side. Be careful not to cut all the way through; you want to create a cavity that can hold the stuffing. Season the inside and outside generously with salt and pepper—don’t be shy!
3. Make the Stuffing:
In a mixing bowl, add the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling a little spicy! Add breadcrumbs if you want some extra texture. Mix everything together until it forms a creamy, well-combined stuffing.
4. Stuff the Chops:
Now it’s time to fill those pockets! Spoon the cheese mixture into each pork chop evenly, gently pressing it in so it’s nicely packed but not overflowing.
5. Sear the Stuffed Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the stuffed pork chops. Sear each side until they are golden brown, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. This step adds so much flavor!
6. Roast in the Oven:
Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast the pork chops for 15-20 minutes, or until their internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the cheese filling is bubbly and warm.
7. Let Them Rest:
Once they are done, remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy and delicious!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for a lovely finish. Serve your stuffed pork chops alongside some mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad to round out the meal. Enjoy every cheesy, juicy bite!
There you have it—juicy, cheesy stuffed pork chops that are sure to impress anyone at your table!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops! Just be aware that bone-in chops often take a bit longer to cook, so check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 145°F (63°C) before serving.
What if I Don’t Have Ricotta Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute ricotta with cream cheese or cottage cheese for a slightly different texture and flavor. Just remember to soften the cream cheese before mixing for easier incorporation.
How Can I Ensure the Stuffing Stays Inside the Pork Chops?
To help keep the stuffing securely inside, pack it firmly into the pockets of the pork chops. If you’re worried about it spilling out, you can use toothpicks to seal the opening. Just remember to remove them before serving!
Can I Prepare These Pork Chops in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare and stuff the pork chops ahead of time. Just cover them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking them. When you’re ready to cook, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since they’ll be cold.
