These juicy pork chops are filled with creamy cheese and fresh spinach, making every bite a tasty treat! They’re easy to cook and look fancy enough for any dinner party.
I love how the cheesy spinach inside keeps the pork juicy and full of flavor. Serve it with a side of mashed potatoes, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to impress—even your pickiest eater!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend using boneless pork chops that are about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. This thickness ensures they stay juicy while baking. If you prefer, you can also use bone-in chops for added flavor, just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a vibrant flavor and texture. If fresh isn’t available, you can substitute with frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to your filling.
Cheeses: I love using ricotta for its creaminess, with mozzarella and Parmesan for extra flavor. If you want to change it up, cottage cheese can be a lighter substitute for ricotta! Mix in some feta cheese for a tangy kick if you like.
Seasonings: Italian seasoning or dried basil works well, but feel free to swap with fresh herbs if you have them on hand. Fresh parsley or thyme can enhance the dish even more.
How Do I Ensure My Stuffed Pork Chops Stay Juicy?
The key to juicy, stuffed pork chops lies in both the prep and cooking methods. First, be sure to create a deep pocket in each chop but avoid cutting through the other side. This pocket holds in the filling while allowing the pork to cook evenly.
- Always sear the pork chops in a hot skillet first; this locks in moisture.
- Bake them in the oven instead of grilling to keep them tender. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Allow the stuffed pork chops to rest for at least 5 minutes after baking; this setting time helps juices redistribute throughout the meat.
Following these steps can lead to wonderfully juicy and flavorful stuffed pork chops every time!
How to Make Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For The Filling:
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
Other:
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine for securing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes for cooking. Including the resting time, you’ll need approximately 45-50 minutes in total. It might seem like a little effort, but the resulting meal will be so worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat The Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature lets the pork cook evenly and get that nice golden finish.
2. Sauté The Vegetables:
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter along with the olive oil. Then, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. This will create a lovely base for your filling!
3. Add The Spinach:
Next, toss in the chopped spinach and cook until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes. Once it’s done, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
4. Mix The Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach mixture with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed together.
5. Prepare The Pork Chops:
Take each pork chop and carefully create a horizontal pocket by slicing through one side. Make sure not to cut all the way through—leave enough of a seal to hold the filling!
6. Stuff The Chops:
Generously fill each pork chop pocket with the spinach and cheese mixture. Once stuffed, secure the openings with toothpicks or tie them with kitchen twine to keep everything in.
7. Sear The Pork Chops:
In an oven-safe skillet, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed pork chops and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This step will lock in moisture and flavor!
8. Bake In The Oven:
After searing, carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here!
9. Rest & Serve:
Once cooked, take the skillet out of the oven and let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps keep them juicy! Remember to remove any toothpicks or twine before serving.
10. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve your lovely stuffed pork chops warm. You can garnish with fresh rosemary or parsley if you’d like. They pair nicely with greens, grains, or your favorite side dishes!
Enjoy the combination of juicy pork and creamy, cheesy filling; it’s bound to become a family favorite!
Can I Use Frozen Spinach in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach! Just be sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the filling. This will prevent the mixture from becoming too watery.
What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese is a great substitute! Just blend it a bit for a smoother texture. Cream cheese can also work in a pinch, but you might want to add a splash of milk to thin it out slightly.
Can I Make These Stuffed Pork Chops Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuff the pork chops a few hours in advance. Just keep them refrigerated and bake them when you’re ready to eat. For best results, try to bake within a day for maximum freshness.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They should be good for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or warm them in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.
