These apple stuffed pork chops are a sweet and savory delight! Stuffed with juicy apples and a sprinkle of spices, they bring a cozy flavor to your dinner table.
Plus, just the smell of them cooking will make your mouth water! I love serving them with some simple veggies on the side. It feels like a warm hug on a plate! 😊
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for this recipe as they stay juicy during cooking. If you prefer, boneless chops can work too, but make sure to adjust cooking time as they typically cook faster.
Apples: I recommend Granny Smith for their tartness. If they’re not available, try Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter touch. Just avoid soft apples like Red Delicious, as they won’t hold up well during cooking.
Breadcrumbs: I use plain breadcrumbs to keep the focus on the flavors of apple and pork. You can also use panko for added crunch, or gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor, but feel free to omit it for a dairy-free option. You could also try goat cheese for a tangy twist!
Herbs: Fresh thyme is wonderful, but dried thyme can be a good substitute. Use 1/3 the amount since dried herbs are more potent.
How Do I Create the Perfect Pocket in Pork Chops?
Making a pocket for stuffing your pork chops can be tricky, but with a little care, it’s simple! Here’s a foolproof method:
- Use a thin, sharp knife to cut horizontally into each chop.
- Cut about 3/4 of the way through, forming a pocket without slicing all the way.
- Be cautious; you just want to create enough space for your apple mixture.
For me, this is the best way to ensure the stuffing stays inside while cooking. Enjoy the flavor combination that emerges!
Apple Stuffed Pork Chops Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
For the Stuffing:
- 1 large tart apple (such as Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and 20-25 minutes for cooking. So, expect a total of around 40-45 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot enough for baking the pork chops once they’re ready.
2. Prepare the Stuffing:
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is softened—about 3 to 4 minutes. This will create a fragrant base for your stuffing!
3. Add the Apples:
Next, throw in the chopped apple, fresh thyme, and ground cinnamon. Stir everything together and cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until the apples become tender. This will bring out all those delicious flavors.
4. Mix the Stuffing:
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the breadcrumbs and shredded cheddar cheese if you’re using it. Don’t forget to season this mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Prepare the Chops:
Using a sharp knife, carefully create a horizontal pocket in each pork chop by slicing about 3/4 of the way through. Make sure not to cut all the way through, as you want to create a pocket to hold the stuffing.
6. Stuff the Pork Chops:
Generously stuff each pork chop pocket with the apple mixture. The more stuffing, the better!
7. Season the Chops:
Season the outside of the pork chops with salt and pepper. This will enhance their flavor as they cook!
8. Sear the Chops:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed pork chops and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned.
9. Bake!
Now, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake the pork chops for 12-15 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures they are perfectly cooked and juicy.
10. Let Them Rest:
Once out of the oven, let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes. This will help the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more tender!
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with a few fresh thyme sprigs, and serve your amazing apple stuffed pork chops alongside some sautéed or roasted vegetables. Enjoy every bite of this sweet and savory dish!
Happy cooking! 😊
Can I Use Different Types of Apples for the Stuffing?
Yes! While Granny Smith apples are great for their tartness, you can use other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter flavor. Just avoid soft apples like Red Delicious, as they won’t hold up well during cooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the stuffing in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, stuff the pork chops just before searing and baking them.
What Is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through, ensuring they remain juicy!
Can I Use Different Breadcrumbs for the Stuffing?
Absolutely! You can use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch or whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier option. If you’re gluten-free, pick gluten-free breadcrumbs that fit your dietary needs!
