These juicy pork chops are filled with a tasty mix of spinach and cheese, making them a delicious option for dinner. They look fancy but are easy to make!
Honestly, who can resist the combo of melty cheese and fresh spinach? I always feel like a chef when I serve these. Try them with some mashed potatoes for a complete meal—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops work best for stuffing. If you can’t find them, bone-in chops add flavor but can be trickier to stuff. Make sure they’re at least 1-inch thick to hold the filling well.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is great, but frozen spinach is a decent substitute. Just ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture. You can also use kale or Swiss chard if preferred!
Cheese: Cream cheese gives a nice creamy texture, but you can substitute it with ricotta or cottage cheese if you like. I love using a mix of mozzarella and sharper cheeses like cheddar for extra flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a lot of punch. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too—about 1/2 teaspoon should do the trick. I always say, add garlic to taste!
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Stay Juicy?
Keeping pork chops juicy can be a challenge, but here’s how to do it. First, sear the chops in a hot skillet for a nice crust; this locks in moisture. The second key is not to overcook them. Always use a meat thermometer—145°F is your sweet spot for juicy pork.
- Start by seasoning them well for extra flavor.
- Use medium-high heat for searing to caramelize without drying out.
- After baking, let them rest for 5 minutes—this helps redistribute the juices inside.
Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or thawed, well-drained frozen spinach)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried oregano and basil)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes for prep and about 30 minutes for cooking. So, in total, you’re looking at around 45-50 minutes before you can dig into some delicious stuffed pork chops!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C). This gives it a chance to warm up while you prepare everything else.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and cut a deep pocket into the side of each one. Make sure not to cut all the way through; you want to create a pocket for the stuffing!
3. Season the Chops:
Now, season both sides of your chops generously with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. This will make sure they’re flavorful all through!
4. Make the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the chopped spinach, softened cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, minced garlic, the rest of the Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if you want a kick. Stir until it’s all well combined and creamy.
5. Stuff the Chops:
Stuff each pork chop pocket with the spinach and cheese mixture, making sure to divide it evenly. You want every bite to be delicious!
6. Sear the Chops:
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each pork chop for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re nice and browned.
7. Bake Them:
Once browned, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Let Them Rest:
After baking, remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy!
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with some fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs if you’d like. Serve warm with your favorite sides, and enjoy those juicy pork chops bursting with cheesy spinach goodness!
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach well to remove excess moisture. This prevents the stuffing from becoming too watery.
How Do I Know When the Pork Chops Are Done?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. Pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, the juices should run clear when you cut into the meat.
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed pork chops a day in advance! Simply follow the instructions up to the stuffing part, cover them well, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, simply sear and bake as directed.
What Should I Serve With Stuffed Pork Chops?
These chops pair wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light salad. The creamy filling also goes nicely with a side of rice or a hearty quinoa mix!
