Imagine cutting into a perfectly seared pork chop and discovering a molten center of creamy, smoky gouda that oozes out with every bite. This isn't just another dinner recipe - this is a culinary experience that transforms an ordinary weeknight meal into a gourmet masterpiece. Our Smoked Gouda Stuffed Pork Chops are about to become your new obsession, promising a symphony of flavors that will have your family begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork chops
- 1 cup smoked gouda, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for the pork chops once they are stuffed and seared.
- In a medium bowl, combine the shredded smoked gouda, softened cream cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and form a creamy filling.
- Take the boneless pork chops and place them on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket in each chop by slicing horizontally, making sure not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each pork chop generously with the gouda and cream cheese mixture, ensuring that the filling is evenly distributed. Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the opening if necessary, to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the stuffed pork chops to the skillet. Sear each chop for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown.
- Once the pork chops are nicely browned, transfer them to a baking dish. If desired, drizzle a little more olive oil over the top for added flavor.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). This will ensure that the pork is cooked through but still juicy.
- Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the chops more tender.
- Carefully remove any toothpicks or twine before serving. Plate the stuffed pork chops and enjoy with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Choose thick-cut boneless pork chops (about 1-
- 5 inches thick) for the best stuffing results.
- Let your pork chops come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking - 145°F is the sweet spot for juicy pork.
- Don't skip the resting period after cooking; it helps retain the meat's moisture.
- For extra flavor, try using smoked paprika in your filling for an additional smoky dimension.
- If you don't have kitchen twine, toothpicks work perfectly to seal the stuffed pork chops.
- Pair with a crisp white wine or light beer to complement the rich, smoky cheese filling.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 140mg
