These spinach and cheese stuffed pork chops are a delicious twist on a classic dish! Tender pork chops are filled with a creamy mix of spinach and cheese, making each bite super tasty.
Honestly, who doesn’t love cheese stuffed into everything? It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds! I enjoy serving these with roasted veggies for a complete meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless chops work great for stuffing, but you can also choose bone-in chops for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, tenderloin slices can be good too. Just adjust the cooking time, as they can cook faster.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is ideal, but if it’s not available, frozen spinach does the job well. Make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture in your filling. I often sauté fresh spinach lightly first to boost its flavor!
Cheese: Cream cheese adds richness, while mozzarella gives it that melty goodness. If you’re looking for alternatives, ricotta or goat cheese can add a nice twist. For a sharper taste, try using cheddar instead of mozzarella.
Seasoning: Garlic powder and paprika enhance flavor, but feel free to mix in herbs like oregano or basil. If you’re sensitive to spice, skip the red pepper flakes or use a milder form of chili.
How Do I Make Sure My Pork Chops Stay Juicy While Cooking?
Juicy pork chops are all about monitoring the cooking time and temperature. Here are some essential tips:
- First, don’t skip the searing! This creates a lovely crust and helps to lock in juices.
- Keep your stove on medium-high when searing, but once you move them to the oven, the heat should be at a consistent 375°F (190°C).
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 145°F (63°C)—this keeps the pork juicy.
- Let the chops rest for at least 5 minutes after baking. This re-distributes the juices back into the meat, so every bite is moist and flavorful!
Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1 cup fresh spinach (or 1/2 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 40 minutes to create these delicious stuffed pork chops! Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for your pork chops.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each pork chop. Be gentle! You want to create a space for the filling without slicing all the way through. This helps keep the delicious stuffing inside!
3. Season the Pork:
Sprinkle both sides of the pork chops with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning. This adds a great flavor to the meat.
4. Make the Filling:
In a bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, fresh or thawed spinach, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Combine everything well so the flavors meld together.
5. Stuff the Pork Chops:
Now comes the fun part! Gently stuff each pork chop pocket with the spinach and cheese mixture. Use your fingers to pack the filling in firmly but avoid overstuffing!
6. Sear the Stuffed Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the stuffed pork chops and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they get a lovely golden brown color.
7. Bake the Chops:
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures they are juicy and tender!
8. Rest and Garnish:
Once done, take the skillet out of the oven and let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes. This helps them retain their juices. Before serving, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these delicious stuffed pork chops hot with your favorite sides, like roasted potatoes or steamed veggies. Enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess moisture to prevent a watery filling. Sautéing it in a skillet briefly can also help enhance the flavor before mixing it with the cream cheese.
What Should I Do If My Pork Chops Are Thick?
If your pork chops are thicker than 1 inch, you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes. Just be sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 145°F (63°C).
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffed pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying them out.
Can I Prepare the Filling in Advance?
Yes! You can make the spinach and cheese filling a day ahead. Just cover it and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, stuff your pork chops with the prepped filling and proceed with the recipe as usual.
