Introduction
If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious dish, this baked pork chop recipe with savory stuffing is perfect for you. The combination of juicy pork chops and seasoned bread cubes creates a mouthwatering meal that’s easy to prepare. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Pork Chops: Boneless or bone-in, about 1-inch thick.
Seasoned Bread Cubes: Pre-seasoned with herbs and spices.
Onion: Yellow or white, finely diced.
Butter: Melted.
Water.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Regular or low-sodium.
Milk: Whole or 2%.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: Serves 4 to 6
This recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that brings together the heartiness of pork and the comfort of stuffing, making it a great choice for any occasion. Enjoy your meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1 – Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish that measures either 8×10 or 9×13 inches to prevent sticking.
Step 2 – Brown the Pork Chops
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the pork chops. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. Once done, arrange the browned pork chops in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3 – Prepare the Stuffing Mixture
In the same skillet used for the pork chops, add the seasoned bread cubes, finely diced onion, melted butter, and water. Stir this mixture well and cook for a few minutes until the bread cubes absorb the liquid and the onion becomes soft.
Step 4 – Assemble the Dish
Spread the stuffing mixture evenly over the pork chops that are in the baking dish, ensuring an even layer covers them.
Step 5 – Combine Soup and Milk
In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with milk until the mixture is smooth. Pour this soup mixture over the stuffing and pork chops in the baking dish.
Step 6 – Cover and Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 7 – Uncover and Finish Baking
After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil from the baking dish. Continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the stuffing on top is golden brown and the pork chops are fully cooked.
Step 8 – Rest Before Serving
Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Notes
Note 1 – Pork Chop Variations
You can use either boneless or bone-in pork chops, but cooking times may vary slightly with thickness.
Note 2 – Adjusting Flavor
Feel free to enhance flavor by adding additional herbs or spices to the stuffing mixture.
Note 3 – Cream of Mushroom Soup Alternatives
If desired, you can substitute cream of mushroom soup with other cream soups, such as cream of chicken or cream of celery.
Note 4 – Cooking Temperature
Make sure the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches at least 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
Note 5 – Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Browning Pork Chops
Browning the pork chops enhances the flavor and creates a nice crust. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chops for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
Preparing the Stuffing
Combine the seasoned bread cubes, diced onion, melted butter, and water in the same skillet where you cooked the pork chops. Stir to mix and cook until the bread absorbs the moisture and the onion softens, which adds depth of flavor to the dish.
Layering Ingredients
Arrange the browned pork chops in a single layer in the greased baking dish. Spread the prepared stuffing mixture evenly over the chops for a balanced distribution of flavors.
Creating the Sauce
Mix the cream of mushroom soup with milk until smooth, creating a creamy sauce that will keep the dish moist during baking. Pour it over the stuffing and pork chops for added richness.
Baking the Dish
Cover the baking dish with foil to retain moisture and bake initially. Remove the foil towards the end of baking to allow the stuffing to become golden brown and to ensure the pork chops are cooked through.
Resting the Dish
Let the dish sit for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes serving easier.
FAQ
Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless?
Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops; just ensure they are similar in thickness for even cooking.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
You can use cream of chicken soup or a homemade cream sauce as a substitute.
How do I know when the pork chops are fully cooked?
Pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption. You can check using a meat thermometer.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking stage and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad complement the flavors of the pork chops and stuffing nicely.
Conclusion
This dish combines the flavors of savory pork chops with a rich and creamy stuffing that complements the meat beautifully. With the added texture from the seasoned bread cubes and the hearty warmth of the cream of mushroom soup, it makes for a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pork Chops with Apple Chutney
Serve your pork chops with a homemade apple chutney for a sweet and tangy contrast that enhances the dish’s flavor profile.
Stuffed Pork Chops
For a twist, try stuffing the pork chops with a mixture of spinach, feta cheese, and herbs before baking.
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Pair the pork chops with creamy garlic mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food combination.
Glazed Carrots
Serve with glazed carrots for a sweet and vibrant side, adding color and nutrition to your meal.
Roasted Green Beans
Roasted green beans with a sprinkle of lemon zest and garlic make a fresh and crunchy accompaniment.
Herbed Quinoa
Complement the dish with herbed quinoa for a healthy grain option that takes on flavors well.
Mixed Green Salad
A simple mixed green salad with a vinaigrette dressing adds freshness and balances the richness of the pork chops.
