Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

This tender baked stuffed pork chop recipe transforms an ordinary weeknight dinner into something special with minimal effort. The juicy pork perfectly complements the savory mushroom and melty cheese filling for a restaurant-quality meal made right in your kitchen.

I first made these stuffed pork chops for my partner's birthday when I wanted something special but was short on time. The look on their face when they cut into that first cheese-filled bite made this an instant favorite in our rotation.

Ingredients

• Boneless pork chops: 5 to 6 ounces each perfect for even cooking and ideal portion size
• White button mushrooms: ⅓ cup cooked and chopped adds earthy umami flavor without overpowering
• Extra virgin olive oil: 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon provides perfect searing fat with subtle flavor
• Swiss cheese: 2 ounces chopped melts beautifully and offers nutty complexity
• Fresh parsley: 1 tablespoon chopped brightens the rich filling with color and freshness
• Salt and pepper: to taste essential for properly seasoning every layer of flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F which creates the perfect environment for cooking the pork through without drying it out.

Create Pockets:

Carefully slice a pocket into the fat side of each pork chop using a sharp knife. Take your time with this step to ensure you create a deep pocket without cutting all the way through. Season the outside with salt and pepper which helps build the first layer of flavor.

Cook Mushrooms:

Sauté the mushrooms in 1 teaspoon olive oil over medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes until they release their moisture and become soft. This concentrates their earthy flavor which will infuse throughout the filling.

Prepare Filling:

Mix the cooked mushrooms with chopped Swiss cheese fresh parsley and ¼ teaspoon salt. This combination creates a perfect balance of creaminess earthiness and brightness that will transform inside the pork.

Stuff and Secure:

Fill each pork pocket generously with the mushroom mixture pressing it in gently. Secure with toothpicks to prevent the filling from escaping during baking making sure they remain partially visible for easy removal later.

Bake to Perfection:

Place the stuffed chops on a rimmed baking sheet and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until they reach 145°F internal temperature. Using a meat thermometer is crucial here as it ensures perfectly cooked juicy pork.

Final Sear:

Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium high heat. Briefly sear each side of the baked chops for 30 to 60 seconds until golden brown. This creates a beautiful crust and adds another dimension of flavor.

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The Swiss cheese is truly the secret star of this recipe. I discovered this after trying several cheese varieties and finding that Swiss offers the perfect balance of melt consistency and flavor that complements the pork without overwhelming it. My husband claims he can always tell when I substitute another cheese because the dish just isnt quite the same.

Make Ahead Options

These stuffed pork chops are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare them up to 24 hours in advance and keep them refrigerated until ready to bake. Simply stuff the chops secure with toothpicks and store in an airtight container. This makes them perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining when you want to minimize last minute preparation.

Perfect Pairings

These stuffed pork chops shine when served with simple sides that complement without competing. A light green salad with lemon vinaigrette provides refreshing contrast to the rich pork. Roasted asparagus or green beans offer color and nutrition while soaking up any delicious juices from the meat. For those wanting a heartier meal a small portion of wild rice or roasted baby potatoes makes an excellent accompaniment.

Troubleshooting Tips

Getting perfectly cooked stuffed pork chops can sometimes be tricky. If your pork consistently turns out dry try reducing the cooking time by 2 to 3 minutes. Remember that the meat will continue cooking slightly after removal from the oven. For leaky filling secure the pockets with additional toothpicks or consider using kitchen twine for a tighter seal. And if the cheese isnt fully melted when the pork reaches temperature a quick minute under the broiler will create perfectly gooey results without overcooking the meat.

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Recipe FAQs

→ How do you prepare the pork chops for stuffing?

Slice a pocket into the fat side of each pork chop, taking care not to cut all the way through. This creates space to hold the stuffing securely.

→ What ingredients work best for the stuffing?

A mixture of sautéed mushrooms, chopped Swiss cheese, and fresh parsley creates a flavorful and moist stuffing for the pork chops.

→ How do you ensure the pork chops stay juicy?

Season the outside of the chops, bake them until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F, then sear briefly for a golden finish without overcooking.

→ Can I use pre-cooked mushrooms?

Yes, canned mushrooms can save time as they do not need to be cooked beforehand. Ensure any excess liquid is drained prior to using.

→ What dishes pair well with baked stuffed pork chops?

These pork chops pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light green salad for a complete meal.