This apple stuffed pork chops recipe combines juicy pork with a delightful stuffing of apples and spices, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you choose to bake, pan-sear, or grill, these savory apple stuffed pork chops are sure to impress your family and friends.
With options like apple cranberry stuffed pork chops or apple pecan stuffed pork chops, this recipe is versatile and can be tailored to your taste. These easy apple stuffed pork chops are healthy and family-friendly, making them ideal for weeknight dinners.
Overview of Savory Apple Stuffed Pork Chops
The savory apple stuffed pork chops recipe brings together the tenderness of pork with a delightful stuffing that combines the sweetness of apples and the savory notes of onions.
This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the palate, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
With options for baked, pan-seared, or grilled preparations, these easy apple stuffed pork chops can be tailored to suit any cooking style, ensuring a juicy and flavorful experience every time.
Ingredients That Shine
To create these mouthwatering pork chops, you’ll need a selection of fresh ingredients.
Boneless or bone-in pork chops serve as the canvas for a colorful stuffing made from diced apples, onions, and optional pecans.
Seasoned with herbs like thyme or rosemary, and complemented by breadcrumbs, this stuffing adds both texture and flavor.
Preparation Steps
Preparing savory apple stuffed pork chops involves several straightforward steps that yield impressive results.
Start by creating pockets in the pork chops, which will be filled with the apple and onion mixture.
After sautéing the onions and apples, the stuffing is ready to be packed into the chops, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor.
Cooking Techniques
Whether you choose to bake, pan-sear, or grill, the cooking method will influence the final texture and taste of the pork chops.
Baked apple stuffed pork chops develop a tender, juicy quality, while pan-seared options offer a deliciously crispy crust.
Grilling adds a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the apples, making each method a worthy choice.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving these gourmet apple stuffed pork chops, presentation is key.
Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and serve alongside roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
A small bowl of apple cider can enhance the dining experience, providing a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the dish.
Why Choose Apple Stuffed Pork Chops?
This dish stands out for its versatility and appeal to a wide range of palates.
From families looking for quick weeknight meals to those wanting to impress guests at a dinner party, savory apple stuffed pork chops fit the bill.
With variations like apple cranberry or apple pecan stuffing, there’s a flavor combination for everyone to enjoy.
Delicious Apple Stuffed Pork Chops
These apple stuffed pork chops feature tender boneless or bone-in chops filled with a sweet and savory mixture of apples and onions. The dish takes about 50 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people, making it a quick and gourmet option for any meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork chops
- 2 cups diced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup apple cider or broth
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Prep the Pork Chops: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Use a sharp knife to create a pocket in each pork chop for the stuffing.
- Make the Stuffing: In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the diced apples, breadcrumbs, pecans, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the apples are slightly softened.
- Stuff the Chops: Fill each pork chop pocket with the apple mixture, securing with toothpicks if necessary.
- Sear the Chops: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and heat over medium-high. Sear the stuffed pork chops for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Bake: Transfer the seared pork chops to a baking dish. Pour the apple cider or broth around the chops and dot with butter. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Serve: Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle with the pan juices and enjoy your apple stuffed pork chops with gravy or your favorite sides.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
