These stuffed pork chops are juicy, super easy to make, and loaded with creamy spinach and cream cheese filling. Baked to perfection, it takes only 30 minutes to prepare a delicious dinner.
These stuffed pork chops are quick to make and use only low-carb ingredients. They are perfect for a quick weeknight meal or even for a special dinner party.
- What Is Spinach Stuffed Pork Chops?
- Ingredients Needed
- How To Make Spinach Stuffed Pork Chops
- Tips For Making The Best Spinach Stuffed Pork Chops
- Recipe Variations
- Serving Ideas
- Storing Ideas
- Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead Of Fresh?
- How Do I Prevent The Pork Chops From Drying Out?
- Can I Prepare The Stuffing In Advance?
- More Pork Chops Recipes
- Spinach Stuffed Pork Chops
I’ve always loved adding a little extra to my dishes. If you’ve tried my recipes for cream cheese spinach stuffed chicken breast, stuffed salmon, or French onion stuffed chicken, you know what I’m talking about. This time, it’s all about pork chops, stuffed with fresh spinach and a melt-in-your-mouth creamy filling. This is comfort food that’s sure to impress.
This pork chops recipe is one of my top picks for cooking pork chops. Serve them with your favorite side, and there you have it – a fantastic meal that’s ready in no time, perfect for those busy evenings.
What’s not to love about pork recipes? The ingredients are super easy to find, the recipe is always super customizable, and these spinach-stuffed pork chops make it easy to enjoy a fancy meal without any fuss, all in the comfort of your own kitchen.
What Is Spinach Stuffed Pork Chops?
Spinach stuffed pork chops is a delicious recipe where pork chops are filled with a flavorful mixture of spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic, and seasonings. The pork chops are stuffed with the spinach mixture and baked until perfection. This results in a delightful combination of juicy pork and a creamy, spinach-infused filling, offering flavor in every bite.
Ingredients Needed
This recipe requires only just a few easy-to-find ingredients that are cheap and accessible. Here is a list of everything you will need:
- Pork Chops – use boneless pork chops with some fat for added juiciness and flavor.
- Olive Oil – use extra virgin olive oil to stick the seasoning to the pork chops. You can also use unsalted butter.
- Paprika – This ingredient will infuse your pork chops with a delicious smoky flavor.
- Salt & Black Pepper – enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Garlic & Onion Powder – these two seasonings are my favorites since they give most of the flavor to the spices mix.
- Garlic Cloves – used to add an aromatic touch to the pork chops.
- Spinach – Fresh or frozen spinach can be used; ensure frozen spinach is well-drained.
- Cream Cheese – used to bring a creamy and tangy texture to the spinach filling.
- Parmesan – try using freshly grated parmesan cheese to introduce a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the stuffing.
- Mayonnaise – Adds richness and moisture to the spinach stuffing.
- Red Pepper Flakes – add a hint of heat and a subtle kick to the dish.
How To Make Spinach Stuffed Pork Chops
This spinach stuffed pork chops recipe is so easy to make that I make it on those busy days since it requires only a few minutes of prep. Here is everything you need to do:
Prepping Your Pork Chops: First, heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s at the right temperature when the pork chops are ready to go in. Take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels – this helps them brown better when cooked. Carefully cut a pocket into each chop using a sharp knife, but be careful not to cut all the way through.
Seasoning the Chops: Now, it’s time to season. Lightly brush each pork chop with olive oil. This helps the seasoning stick and adds flavor. In a small bowl, combine spices like paprika, thyme, oregano, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. You can also use my pork chop seasoning mix.
Rub this mixture evenly onto both sides of the pork chops. This blend of spices will enhance the flavor of the meat.
Making the Stuffing: For the stuffing, mix softened cream cheese, Parmesan, mozzarella, minced garlic, and spinach in a bowl. Season with a little salt and pepper. The goal is to have a rich and flavorful mixture that complements the pork.
Stuffing the Chops: Carefully spoon the cheese and spinach mixture into the pockets of each pork chop. Make sure they are well-filled but not overstuffed to ensure even cooking.
Once stuffed, use toothpicks to secure the openings. This helps to keep the stuffing inside while the chops bake.
Baking the Pork Chops: Place the stuffed chops in a lightly greased baking dish. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chops. They are done when the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Optional Broiling: For an extra touch of flavor and texture, you can broil the chops for 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time. Keep a close watch during this step to prevent burning.
Tips For Making The Best Spinach Stuffed Pork Chops
- Use fresh, high-quality, thick-cut pork chops to ensure they can hold a generous stuffing without getting too thin during cooking.
- Ensure the frozen spinach is fully thawed. After thawing, gently squeeze out any excess moisture to prevent a watery stuffing.
- Use a sharp knife when cutting the pocket into the pork chops for the stuffing, and do not cut through the opposite side of the fillet.
- Choose pork chops that are similar in size to ensure that they cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork.
- To obtain that golden-brown crust, keep a close eye during the broiling stage to avoid burning the pork chops.
Recipe Variations
- You can add some sautéed mushrooms or diced peppers to the cream cheese filling for an extra flavor.
- Sprinkle crispy bacon crumbles into the spinach stuffing for extra crunch and a smoky taste.
- You can also add some diced roasted red peppers for sweetness and extra color.
- If you like a sharper cheese flavor, add some sharp cheddar to the stuffing.
Serving Ideas
There are so many great ideas for enjoying this stuffed pork chops recipe. Here are my favorite ones:
- Easy Creamy Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes
- Crispy Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
- Greens Salad
- Easy Baked Zucchini with Parmesan
- Whole Roasted Cauliflower
Storing Ideas
Before storing them, allow the cooked pork chops to cool down slightly to prevent condensation inside the container.
- Fridge: Place the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The leftover stuffed pork chops can be stored safely for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Slide the baking sheet with the stuffed pork chops into the oven and reheat them until they’re heated. This usually takes around 5-10 minutes, but the time may vary based on the thickness of the pork chops.
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead Of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach in this recipe. Thaw and drain it well before incorporating it into the stuffing mixture.
How Do I Prevent The Pork Chops From Drying Out?
Make sure not to overcook the pork chops. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Also, consider searing the chops before baking to lock in moisture.
Can I Prepare The Stuffing In Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the spinach stuffing and refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it. This can save you time when you’re ready to assemble and cook the pork chops.
More Pork Chops Recipes
- Pork Chops with Super Creamy Mushroom Sauce
- Juicy Pan-Seared Pork Chops
- Air Fryer Pork Chops and Crispy Garlic Broccoli
Spinach Stuffed Pork Chops
Description
Ingredients
- 6 pork chops boneless, (about 1-inch thick each)
Seasoning Mixture
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
Spinach Stuffing Mixture
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese grated
- 1/4 cup mozzarella shredded
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 10 oz frozen spinach thawed or 2 cups fresh spinach
- salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the pork chops. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Use a sharp knife to create a pocket in each chop, being careful not to cut through to the other side.6 pork chops
- Season the Pork Chops: Drizzle olive oil over the pork chops. In a small bowl, mix paprika, red pepper flakes, thyme, oregano, onion powder, and 1 tsp salt. Rub this mixture evenly on both sides of each pork chop.1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, 1 tsp thyme, 1 tsp oregano, 1/4 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp salt, 1 tbsp olive oil
- Prepare the Stuffing Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, spinach, and 1 tsp salt. Mix until well combined.4 ounces cream cheese, 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup mozzarella, 4 garlic cloves, 10 oz frozen spinach, salt
- Stuff the Pork Chops: Stuff each pork chop pocket with the spinach and cheese mixture, pressing down gently to ensure it's packed well. Secure with toothpicks.
- Bake the Stuffed Pork Chops: Place the stuffed pork chops in a greased baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Optional Broiling: For a golden-brown crust, broil the pork chops for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the stuffed pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the pork moist and flavorful.
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How do we calculate the nutrition info?
These nutrition facts listed are determined using nutrition information from the USDA Food Database. Our nutrition facts are accurate, but if you are using different products, please make your calculations. Net carb count is calculated by subtracting both fiber and sugar alcohols because they don’t raise blood sugar.
