These juicy pork chops are stuffed with a yummy mix of spinach and cheese. It’s a tasty way to add some greens to your meal and the cheese makes everything extra delicious!
I love how simple it is to make these stuffed chops. Just fill them up, sear, and bake! Bonus points for all the ooey-gooey cheese. It’s like a little surprise in every bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend boneless pork chops for easy stuffing. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can try turkey cutlets instead. They cook similarly, but keep an eye on the cooking time!
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a lovely texture and flavor. In a pinch, frozen spinach works well too—just make sure to squeeze out the excess moisture after thawing it.
Cream Cheese: This adds a creamy element to the stuffing. If you’re avoiding dairy, you can use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, or even mashed avocado for a different twist!
Cheeses: I usually mix mozzarella and Parmesan for a great flavor combo. If you prefer a stronger taste, try using feta cheese instead; it pairs nicely with spinach!
How Do I Properly Stuff the Pork Chops?
Stuffing pork chops can seem tricky, but it’s easy with a few steps. The goal is to make a pocket without cutting through the meat completely. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a sharp knife and make a horizontal cut into the side of the chop, stopping just short of the other side to keep it intact.
- Season the insides well with salt and pepper before adding the stuffing to enhance the flavor.
- Stuff generously, but don’t overfill, as it might burst during cooking. Secure it with a toothpick if needed.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly stuffed pork chops that burst with flavor!
Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Stuffing:
- 5 oz fresh spinach (or 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
For Cooking:
- 1 tbsp butter
- Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take about 10-15 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to cook, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner. Just a bit of focused effort and you’ll have a rewarding dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for the delicious pork chops when you’re done preparing them.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take a sharp knife and cut a deep slit into the side of each pork chop to create a pocket for the stuffing. Be careful not to cut all the way through. This will hold all that cheesy goodness!
3. Season the Chops:
Sprinkle salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning on both sides of the pork chops and inside the pockets. This helps flavor the meat well.
4. Cook the Spinach:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds, or until it smells great. Then, add the spinach. Cook until it is wilted if using fresh, or heated through if using frozen. Once done, remove it from the heat and let it cool a little.
5. Make the Stuffing:
In a bowl, combine the cooked spinach with the softened cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, red pepper flakes (if you want a little heat), and the remaining Italian seasoning. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.
6. Stuff the Pork Chops:
Generously stuff each pork chop pocket with the spinach and cheese mixture. If needed, use toothpicks to secure them to keep all the goodness inside while cooking.
7. Sear the Pork Chops:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed pork chops for about 3-4 minutes per side until they are golden brown. This will give them a nice crust!
8. Bake Them:
After searing, transfer the skillet (if oven-safe) or the pork chops to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes in the preheated oven. They’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
9. Final Touches:
Once done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. Take out any toothpicks and feel free to garnish your chops with fresh rosemary or thyme!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm, juicy Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Pork Chops with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. Enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth filling!
Bon Appétit!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you want to switch it up, you can replace mozzarella with gouda or even use feta for a tangy twist. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well!
Can I Prepare These Pork Chops in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the pork chops, stuff them, and refrigerate them for up to a day before cooking. Just let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before searing and baking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at a low temperature to maintain that delicious filling!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Of course! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as bone-in chops may require a bit longer to cook through while ensuring they’re still juicy and tender.
