Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This recipe for juicy pork chops with savory homemade stuffing is the perfect solution for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking that's both healthy and satisfying – the best of both worlds! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
For the Stuffing:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup cubed bread (day-old bread works best)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Preparing the Pork Chops:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the pork chops generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Pat the seasoning into the meat to ensure even flavor.
- Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned. This step helps to lock in the juices and adds great flavor.
Making the Stuffing:
- While the pork chops are searing, prepare the stuffing. Heat the olive oil in a separate skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the cubed bread, chicken broth, parsley, sage, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the bread is moistened and the mixture is fragrant.
Combining and Baking:
- Spoon the stuffing evenly over the seared pork chops in the skillet.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure they're cooked perfectly.
- Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat.
Tips for the Best Pork Chops and Stuffing:
- Bread Choice: Using day-old bread for the stuffing helps prevent it from becoming too soggy.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure there's enough space between the pork chops in the skillet to allow for proper browning.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your preference. A dash of thyme or rosemary would also complement the dish nicely.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, a simple green salad, or mashed potatoes.
Variations:
- Apple Sage Stuffing: Add ½ cup of diced apples and a tablespoon of maple syrup to the stuffing for a sweet and savory twist.
- Cranberry Stuffing: Incorporate ½ cup of dried cranberries into the stuffing for a festive touch.
- Spicy Pork Chops: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the pork chop seasoning for a little heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
This easy recipe for pork chops and stuffing is a perfect example of delicious, healthy meals you can make at home. It's a great option for a quick dinner, a family gathering, or even a special occasion. Enjoy!