Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that’s also incredibly easy to prepare? Look no further! This slow cooker pork chop and stuffing recipe is the perfect answer for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. Tender, juicy pork chops are infused with savory stuffing, creating a delicious and satisfying dish that's sure to become a family favorite. It's one of those easy recipes that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, but requires minimal effort, making it perfect for healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. This homemade cooking masterpiece showcases the best of comfort food with a modern twist.
Ingredients:
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For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
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For the Stuffing:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup cremini mushrooms, chopped
- 4 cups cubed bread (day-old is best)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Getting Started: Preparing the Pork Chops and Stuffing
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Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Drizzle with olive oil and gently rub the seasoning into the pork.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and mushrooms and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Assembling and Slow Cooking:
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In a large bowl, combine the cooked vegetables with the cubed bread, chicken broth, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the bread is evenly moistened.
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Place the seasoned pork chops in the bottom of your slow cooker. Spoon the stuffing mixture evenly over the top of the pork chops.
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Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Serving Suggestions:
Serve immediately. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the stuffing mixture.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stuffing for a little heat.
- Use different bread: Experiment with different types of bread, such as sourdough or Italian bread.
- Add apples: Incorporate 1/2 cup of diced apples into the stuffing for a sweet and savory twist.
- Make it vegetarian: Replace the pork chops with large portobello mushrooms and adjust seasonings accordingly.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This delicious slow cooker pork chop and stuffing recipe is a testament to the magic of simple, wholesome ingredients. It's a perfect example of how easy recipes can deliver extraordinary flavor. Enjoy this delightful and satisfying meal that effortlessly blends delicious dishes with healthy meals, making it a go-to for both quick dinner ideas and special occasions. Remember to always adjust seasonings to your preference. Happy cooking!