These juicy pork chops are filled with delicious spinach and cheese, making every bite creamy and tasty. They’re easy to cook and look fancy, perfect for impressing your family!
When I make these stuffed chops, I feel like a chef! The gooey cheese and fresh spinach really make them special. Plus, they pair great with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for this dish because they stay juicy. If you prefer, you can use boneless chops, but remember they might cook a bit faster. Always choose thick cuts for the best results!
Spinach: Fresh spinach is wonderful in this recipe, lending a bright flavor. If you’re out of fresh, frozen spinach works too—just ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture!
Cheese: I love the mix of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. For a lower-fat option, try using laughed cream cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese. You can swap the mozzarella for provolone for a different flavor.
Seasonings: The garlic and optional thyme give great depth. If you don’t have thyme, Italian seasoning or even a bit of lemon zest can brighten the dish. Hot sauce can add a nice kick instead of red pepper flakes!
What’s the Best Way to Stuff Pork Chops?
Stuffing pork chops can seem tricky, but it’s all about the right technique. Follow these steps to ensure a perfect pocket that holds all that delicious filling.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully make a horizontal cut along the thickest side, creating a pocket. Don’t cut all the way through—leave one edge intact!
- Season the inside of the pocket with salt and pepper before stuffing. This helps the flavor soak into the meat.
- Fill the pocket generously with the spinach and cheese mixture. If it’s overflowing, that’s okay—it will cook down a bit!
- Secure the opening with toothpicks if necessary, to prevent the filling from spilling out while cooking.
Just remember to be gentle while making the pocket. Happy cooking!
Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Spinach and Cheese Filling:
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 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
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook, plus a brief resting period. It’s relatively quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is ready for the pork chops once you’ve prepared them.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a horizontal pocket into the side of each pork chop. Make sure not to cut all the way through; you want to create a pocket for the stuffing!
3. Season the Pork:
Generously season both sides of the pork chops and the inside of the pocket with salt and pepper. This is essential for enhancing the flavor of the meat.
4. Cook the Spinach:
In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Then, add the fresh spinach, stirring until it wilts. If you’re using frozen spinach, ensure it’s drained well and just cook until it’s warmed through. Remove from heat once done.
5. Make the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, cooked spinach, thyme (if using), and red pepper flakes (if desired). Mix everything together until well combined and creamy.
6. Stuff the Pork Chops:
Evenly stuff each pork chop pocket with the spinach and cheese mixture. If needed, secure the opening with toothpicks to keep the filling inside while cooking.
7. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat a cast-iron skillet or any oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Sear each pork chop for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a nice golden-brown crust. This step adds great flavor!
8. Bake the Pork Chops:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the juices run clear.
9. Let Them Rest:
Once done, remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps retain the juices for a succulent bite.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve the stuffed pork chops hot with your favorite side, like roasted potatoes or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delightful meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While the combination of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan is delicious, you can swap these for other cheeses like feta, gouda, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just make sure the cheese melts well!
Can I Prepare the Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the spinach and cheese filling a day in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a stir before stuffing the pork chops, as it may firm up a bit in the fridge.
How Do I Know When the Pork Chops Are Done?
The best way to ensure your pork chops are cooked perfectly is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chop; it’s done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Should I Serve With Stuffed Pork Chops?
These stuffed pork chops are great with many sides! Consider serving them with mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad. Roasted vegetables or sautéed green beans make excellent complements as well!
