Easy Stuffed Pork Chops Recipes for Flavorful Weeknight Dinners

Why You’ll Love This Apple Stuffed Pork Chops

Apple Stuffed Pork Chops are a quick and delicious dinner option that combines simplicity with bold flavors, making them ideal for busy weeknights. These chops feature an juicy apple-onion filling that adds a sweet and savory twist, turning an everyday meal into something special. If you’re a home cook or a busy parent looking for wholesome dishes, you’ll appreciate how this recipe fits into a variety of lifestyles, from students to diet-conscious individuals.

This apple stuffed pork chops recipe stands out for its ease of preparation, as it takes under 40 minutes from start to finish with basic steps like making a simple filling and a quick sear followed by roasting. The minimal tools required make it perfect for beginners, while the forgiving cooking times help even working professionals get dinner on the table without stress. Plus, the blend of lean pork and fresh ingredients keeps things light and accessible for all skill levels.

Beyond the kitchen convenience, apple stuffed pork chops offer notable health benefits through their mix of lean protein from pork and nutrients from apples, such as fiber and vitamin C. This makes the dish a smart choice for those watching their diet, like seniors or health-focused food enthusiasts. For more inspiration on healthy eating, check out this guide on the health benefits of apples.

One of the best aspects is the recipe’s versatility, allowing swaps like gluten-free stuffing or dairy-free options to meet different needs, whether you’re cooking for newlyweds or travelers. The distinctive flavor comes from the mix of caramelized pork and spiced apple filling, which creates a memorable contrast that’s sure to delight baking enthusiasts and anyone exploring new tastes. Overall, these elements make apple stuffed pork chops a go-to for creating enjoyable family moments around the meal.

Essential Ingredients for Apple Stuffed Pork Chops

Getting the right ingredients is key to making delicious apple stuffed pork chops that turn out perfectly every time. This section outlines all the items you’ll need, drawing from reliable sources to ensure accuracy and ease. Below is a comprehensive list based on the recipe details, including precise measurements for clear preparation.

• 2 thick-cut pork chops, about 1 ½ inches thick
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more to taste
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves or 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper, plus more to taste
• 1 small apple, cored and sliced
• 1/2 medium onion, sliced
• 2 ounces Gruyère or sharp cheddar cheese, sliced
• 4 wooden toothpicks for securing the stuffing
• 4 (6 8 oz) pork chops, boneless or bone-in (choose pork loin chops for lean meat)
• 2 medium apples (about 1½ cups diced)
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced (about 3/4 cup)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or 2 tablespoons olive oil)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or 1/2 cup gluten-free crumbs)
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
• 1 large egg (or 1 tablespoon flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water for vegan)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
• 1/2 cup apple cider or low-sodium chicken broth
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

These ingredients ensure a balanced dish that’s packed with flavor. For special dietary options, consider vegan swaps like tempeh for pork and flax binders for eggs, or gluten-free crumbs to keep things inclusive.

How to Prepare the Perfect Apple Stuffed Pork Chops: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating apple stuffed pork chops is straightforward and fun, starting with gathering your ingredients for smooth cooking. Begin by trimming 4 pork chops of excess fat and patting them dry, then core and dice 2 medium apples while finely dicing 1 small onion. Measure out items like breadcrumbs, herbs, and 2 tablespoons butter or oil, and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 1: Make the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter or heat the oil for about 2 minutes. Sauté the onions until they turn translucent, which takes 4 5 minutes, then add the diced apples and cook for another 3 4 minutes until softened. Stir in 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup dried cranberries, 1 beaten egg (or flax egg for vegan), 1 teaspoon Dijon, and thyme, seasoning with salt and pepper before removing from heat to cool.

Step 2: Cut Pockets and Stuff

Place each pork chop flat and use a sharp knife to cut a deep pocket parallel to the bone without going through the other side. Season the inside and outside with salt and pepper, then spoon the cooled filling into each pocket, packing it gently. If you’re aiming for a lower-calorie version, use less stuffing and more apples for a lighter touch.

Step 3: Sear the Chops

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the pork chops and sear for 2 3 minutes per side until golden-brown, giving extra time for bone-in chops. This step locks in flavor and helps keep the stuffing secure.

Step 4: Deglaze and Prepare the Pan Sauce

Remove the chops and set them aside, then add 1/2 cup apple cider or chicken broth to the pan, scraping up the browned bits for 1 2 minutes. Stir in 1 tablespoon Dijon and 1 tablespoon butter (or vegan butter) and simmer for 2 3 minutes until reduced, adjusting seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Roast and Rest

Return the chops to the skillet, spoon some sauce over them, and roast in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 15 minutes until they reach 145°F internally. Let them rest for 5 7 minutes to keep the meat juicy and flavorful.

Step 6: Serve and Adjust

Slice the chops to show off the stuffing or serve whole, drizzling with the remaining sauce. For timing tips, prepare the filling while preheating the oven to save time. If you love stuffed dishes, try our roasted red pepper spinach stuffed chicken recipe for another easy idea.

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Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Apple Stuffed Pork Chops

Apple stuffed pork chops are highly adaptable, letting you tweak ingredients to fit various preferences and restrictions. Whether you’re swapping proteins or adjusting for dietary needs, these changes keep the dish tasty and inclusive. This flexibility makes it great for groups like busy parents or food enthusiasts exploring new options.

• Use turkey cutlets or chicken breasts as pork alternatives for a lighter meal.
• Opt for seitan or portobello mushrooms for vegan versions that still capture the apple flavors.
• Add fennel or spinach to the stuffing for extra nutrients and texture.

For sauces, try a balsamic glaze instead of the traditional pan sauce to add depth. If you’re gluten-free, swap breadcrumbs for crushed nuts, and for more ideas on casseroles, check out our cheesy garlic butter mushroom stuffed chicken.

Mastering Apple Stuffed Pork Chops: Advanced Tips and Variations

Taking your apple stuffed pork chops to the next level involves a few pro techniques that ensure perfect results. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for 145°F doneness, and consider reverse searing for thicker chops to get a great crust. Sauté the filling until any excess moisture evaporates to avoid sogginess inside.

Experiment with flavors by swapping apples for pears or adding nuts for crunch. For a Mediterranean twist, include olives and herbs, or go Asian-inspired with ginger and soy. Presentation matters too slice the chops to display the stuffing and add fresh garnishes for appeal.

How to Store Apple Stuffed Pork Chops: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your apple stuffed pork chops fresh and tasty for later. Cool them to room temperature within two hours and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 4 days. For freezing, wrap portions tightly to avoid freezer burn and store for up to a month.

Reheating should be gentle to maintain moisture, using a low oven or skillet. If you’re meal prepping, undercook slightly before storing to preserve texture when reheating.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Stuffed Pork Chops

Apple Stuffed Pork Chops

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• Author: Brandi Oshea
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x

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Description

🍽️ This Easy Stuffed Pork Chops recipe combines juicy pork with a flavorful apple, onion, and cheese stuffing, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
🍎 The blend of fresh thyme, Dijon mustard, and melted Gruyère adds layers of savory and sweet richness that elevate a simple meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 thick-cut pork chops, about 1 ½ inches thick

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more to taste

2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves or 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme

1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper, plus more to taste

1 small apple, cored and sliced

1/2 medium onion, sliced

2 ounces Gruyère or sharp cheddar cheese, sliced

4 (6 8 oz) pork chops, boneless or bone-in (choose pork loin chops for lean meat)

2 medium apples (about 1½ cups diced)

1 small yellow onion, finely diced (about 3/4 cup)

2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or 2 tablespoons olive oil)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or 1/2 cup gluten-free crumbs)

1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)

1 large egg (or 1 tablespoon flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water for vegan)

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)

1/2 cup apple cider or low-sodium chicken broth

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1-Step 1: Make the Filling In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter or heat the oil for about 2 minutes. Sauté the onions until they turn translucent, which takes 4 5 minutes, then add the diced apples and cook for another 3 4 minutes until softened. Stir in 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup dried cranberries, 1 beaten egg (or flax egg for vegan), 1 teaspoon Dijon, and thyme, seasoning with salt and pepper before removing from heat to cool.

2-Step 2: Cut Pockets and Stuff Place each pork chop flat and use a sharp knife to cut a deep pocket parallel to the bone without going through the other side. Season the inside and outside with salt and pepper, then spoon the cooled filling into each pocket, packing it gently. If you’re aiming for a lower-calorie version, use less stuffing and more apples for a lighter touch.

3-Step 3: Sear the Chops Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the pork chops and sear for 2 3 minutes per side until golden-brown, giving extra time for bone-in chops. This step locks in flavor and helps keep the stuffing secure.

4-Step 4: Deglaze and Prepare the Pan Sauce Remove the chops and set them aside, then add 1/2 cup apple cider or chicken broth to the pan, scraping up the browned bits for 1 2 minutes. Stir in 1 tablespoon Dijon and 1 tablespoon butter (or vegan butter) and simmer for 2 3 minutes until reduced, adjusting seasoning as needed.

5-Step 5: Roast and Rest Return the chops to the skillet, spoon some sauce over them, and roast in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 15 minutes until they reach 145°F internally. Let them rest for 5 7 minutes to keep the meat juicy and flavorful.

6-Step 6: Serve and Adjust Slice the chops to show off the stuffing or serve whole, drizzling with the remaining sauce. For timing tips, prepare the filling while preheating the oven to save time. If you love stuffed dishes, try our roasted red pepper spinach stuffed chicken recipe for another easy idea.

Notes

🍏 Choose firm, tart apples for best stuffing texture and flavor.
🔥 Searing pork chops before baking ensures a nice crust and locks in juices.
🧀 Use good-quality cheese like Gruyère for rich, melty flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Searing and Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed pork chop

Keywords: stuffed pork chops, apple stuffing, weeknight dinners, savory pork