Mozzarella Stuffed Pork Chops
Elevate your dinner table with these irresistible Mozzarella Stuffed Pork Chops, a perfect combination of juicy pork, creamy melted mozzarella, and savory sautéed spinach. This impressive yet easy-to-make recipe features thick-cut pork chops filled with a flavorful mixture of fresh mozzarella and spinach seasoned with garlic, paprika, and Italian herbs. Searing the pork chops to golden perfection before finishing them off in the oven ensures a tender bite with a crispy, caramelized crust. Ready in just 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight indulgence or a special dinner party centerpiece. Serve these cheesy, protein-packed pork chops alongside roasted veggies or a fresh salad for a complete, mouthwatering meal.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 pieces pork chops (bone-in or boneless, thick cut at least 1.5 inches)
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 8 pieces toothpicks or kitchen twine
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Using a sharp knife, cut a horizontal pocket into each pork chop, being careful not to cut all the way through.
Season both sides of the pork chops with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Rub the seasonings in evenly.
In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute, then add the fresh spinach leaves. Cook until the spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Slice the mozzarella cheese into thick slices and stuff each pork chop pocket with equal portions of mozzarella and the sautéed spinach mixture.
Secure the opening of each pork chop with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the filling in place.
In an oven-safe skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side until a golden crust forms.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C).
Remove from the oven and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures maximum flavor.
Carefully remove the toothpicks or twine before serving. Serve warm and enjoy your Mozzarella Stuffed Pork Chops!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2013 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 141.2 g | 181% | |
| Saturated Fat | 60.8 g | 304% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 478 mg | 159% | |
| Sodium | 4102 mg | 178% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 14.8 g | 5% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 8.6 g | ||
| Protein | 150.8 g | 302% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.7 mcg | 4% | |
| Calcium | 1307 mg | 101% | |
| Iron | 8.1 mg | 45% | |
| Potassium | 1928 mg | 41% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
