A Mouthwatering Recipe for Perfectly Stuffed Pork Chops
Are you looking for a delicious and impressive recipe to elevate your weeknight dinner? Look no further! This stuffed pork chop recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, combining juicy pork with a flavorful, savory stuffing. It's surprisingly easy to make, and the results are restaurant-quality. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients You'll Need:
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For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
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For the Stuffing:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms
- 1/2 cup cooked quinoa or rice
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (or your favorite cheese!)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preparing the Pork Chops:
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Butterfly the Chops: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a horizontal slit almost all the way through the center of each pork chop, creating a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through!
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Season Generously: Season both sides of each pork chop with salt and pepper.
Making the Savory Stuffing:
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
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Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the cooked vegetables, quinoa (or rice), feta cheese, parsley, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Stuffing and Cooking the Pork Chops:
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Fill the Pockets: Spoon the stuffing evenly into the pockets of each pork chop.
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Secure the Chops: Use toothpicks to close the pockets and keep the stuffing inside.
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Sear and Bake: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned.
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Bake to Perfection: Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked through.
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Rest and Serve: Remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before removing the toothpicks and serving.
Tips for Success:
- Choose Quality Pork: Using high-quality, thick-cut pork chops will make a big difference in the taste and texture of your dish.
- Don't Overstuff: Overstuffing can cause the stuffing to spill out during cooking.
- Adjust Seasoning to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking.
- Serve with Sides: These stuffed pork chops pair perfectly with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
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