Recipe: Pear Stuffed Pork Chops
🕒 Total Time: 40 minutes
🥘 Cook Time: 20 minutes
🔪 Prep Time: 20 minutes
Description:
This delightful recipe for Pear Stuffed Pork Chops is a happy accident that turned into a family favorite! Originally conceived when a beloved magazine recipe went missing, this version with a pear twist has won hearts over the years. Perfect for beginners or those seeking a quick and easy meal, these chops are tender, flavorful, and pair wonderfully with a side of applesauce. Dive into this comforting dish tonight!
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 10 1/2 | Pork chops |
| 2 | Pears |
| 1 | Box of stuffing mix |
| Garlic powder | |
| Salt | |
| Pepper | |
| Butter | |
| Margarine |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 346.4
- Fat Content: 2.5g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0.6g
- Cholesterol Content: 0.7mg
- Sodium Content: 1086.9mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 73.5g
- Fiber Content: 5.2g
- Sugar Content: 24.2g
- Protein Content: 7.8g
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Pork Chops:
- Begin by cutting the pork chops in the middle, creating a pocket-like opening for stuffing.
-
Season the Chops:
- Season the pork chops generously with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside while you prepare the stuffing.
-
Prepare the Stuffing:
- In a pot, follow the directions on the box of stuffing mix to prepare it. This usually involves adding water or broth and cooking until the stuffing is fluffy and cooked through.
-
Prepare the Pear Filling:
- While the stuffing is cooking, take the ripe pears and mash them up with your hands. Add the mashed pears into the cooked stuffing, mixing them well to incorporate the fruity flavor throughout.
-
Stuff the Pork Chops:
- Once the stuffing is ready, take a tablespoon and generously stuff each pork chop with the pear-infused stuffing mixture. Press down gently to ensure the stuffing fills the pocket evenly.
-
Add Pear Syrup:
- Lightly sprinkle the pear syrup from the can over all of the stuffed pork chops. This adds a touch of sweetness and enhances the pear flavor during baking.
-
Bake the Stuffed Chops:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the stuffed pork chops on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven until the chops are cooked thoroughly and golden brown on the outside, approximately 20 minutes.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the pork chops are cooked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair them with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables, and enjoy the delightful combination of tender pork and sweet pear stuffing.
Tips:
- For added flavor, consider sautéing diced onions and celery before adding them to the stuffing mixture.
- If you prefer a crispy texture on the outside of your pork chops, you can sear them in a hot skillet before transferring them to the oven.
- Experiment with different varieties of pears to find your favorite flavor profile for the stuffing.
- Leftover stuffed pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.
With its blend of savory pork, sweet pear, and aromatic seasonings, these Pear Stuffed Pork Chops are sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress with its simplicity and delicious flavor profile. Enjoy! 🍐🍽️
