These Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Pork Chops are a tasty treat! Juicy pork chops filled with yummy spinach and gooey cheese make for a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.
Seriously, who could resist that cheesy goodness? I love serving these with some mashed potatoes or a side salad for a complete dinner. It’s like a hug on a plate! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for this recipe as they stay juicy. If you prefer, boneless chops work too, just watch the cooking time as they cook faster.
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a nice texture, but frozen spinach is a fine substitute when fresh isn’t available. Just make sure to drain it well to avoid soggy filling!
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess to the filling. For a lower-fat option, you can use ricotta or cottage cheese, which still provide a good texture.
Cheeses: Mozzarella and Parmesan are fantastic for flavor. You can switch to cheddar or Gruyère if you want something a little different. Each brings its own unique taste!
Italian Seasoning: If you don’t have it on hand, try mixing dried basil, oregano, and thyme instead. It’s nice to personalize according to your taste!
How Do I Properly Stuff and Cook Pork Chops?
Stuffing pork chops can be a bit tricky, but with a few steps, it’s easier. Start by creating a pocket carefully so you can fit the delightful filling without tearing the chop. Seasoning well both inside and outside enhances the flavor.
- Using a sharp knife, make a deep cut horizontally into the pork chop. Cut slowly to avoid going through the other side.
- After filling each chop with the spinach mixture, press firmly to keep it from spilling out during cooking.
- Searing them in a hot skillet first locks in all those juices and adds a delicious crust.
Lastly, cooking them in the oven ensures they’re cooked through while staying tender and juicy. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 145°F (63°C).
Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 to 1½ inches thick
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or 1/2 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or a mix of dried basil and oregano
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 20-25 minutes to cook in the oven. You’ll have a fantastic meal ready in just under an hour, with juicy pork and creamy stuffing that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is important to ensure your pork chops cook evenly and get that perfect finish!
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Carefully cut a horizontal pocket into each pork chop, being cautious not to cut all the way through. This is where we’ll put our tasty filling! Season both sides and the inside of the pockets with salt, pepper, and half of your Italian seasoning.
3. Make the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the chopped spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if you’d like a little heat), and the rest of the Italian seasoning. Stir it all up until everything is well combined and creamy!
4. Stuff the Chops:
Now, generously stuff these beautifully cut pork chop pockets with the delicious spinach and cheese mixture. Don’t be shy—fill them up!
5. Sear the Stuffed Chops:
Heat your olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully place the stuffed pork chops in the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re a lovely golden brown. This step adds fantastic flavor!
6. Bake the Chops:
After searing, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Allow the pork chops to bake for 15-20 minutes, or until their internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Feel free to use a meat thermometer to check!
7. Rest and Garnish:
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps them stay juicy. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig in! Enjoy your Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Pork Chops with some roasted vegetables or your favorite side dish. It’s comfort food at its best!
This recipe will give you tender, juicy pork chops filled with a creamy and flavorful spinach and cheese stuffing. Each bite reminds you of a delicious spinach dip, making it a delightful meal everyone will enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Spinach for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it before mixing with the other ingredients. This prevents excess moisture in the stuffing.
How Can I Store Leftover Stuffed Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave them covered with a damp paper towel for a few minutes.
Can I Prepare the Filling in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffing a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. Just assemble and stuff the pork chops right before cooking for the best results.
What Can I Serve with Stuffed Pork Chops?
These delicious chops pair wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. The creamy filling complements starchy sides beautifully!
