Pesto Asiago Stuffed Baked Pork Chops

Lori’s Baked Pork Chops Recipe

Overview:

Lori’s Baked Pork Chops are a delightful creation, combining tender pork chops with the savory flavors of pesto, asiago cheese, and aromatic herbs. This dish is perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner, showcasing the versatility of pork chops when paired with simple yet delicious ingredients.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Recipe Category: Pork
Keywords: Meat, Less than 60 Minutes, Oven
Calories: 68.3 per serving
Fat Content: 1g
Saturated Fat Content: 0.3g
Cholesterol Content: 1.1mg
Sodium Content: 124.9mg
Carbohydrate Content: 12.5g
Fiber Content: 0.8g
Sugar Content: 1.3g
Protein Content: 2.1g

Ingredients:

4 1/2 boneless pork chops
2 onions
4 stalks celery
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1/2 cup milk
2 tablespoons grated asiago cheese
2 tablespoons basil pesto
Olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Balsamic vinegar

Instructions:

Preheat Oven:
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- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
Prepare Casserole:
- Pour a small amount of olive oil into a casserole dish and brush to evenly coat the bottom.
Prepare Pork Chops:
- Place the boneless pork chops in the prepared casserole dish.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper over the tops of the pork chops.
Bake First Phase:
- Bake the pork chops uncovered for 15 minutes. This initial baking helps to start cooking the chops.
Prepare Stuffing:
- While the pork chops are baking, prepare the stuffing:
  - In a skillet, sauté the onions and celery in olive oil until they are soft and translucent.
  - Transfer the sautéed onions and celery to a small mixing bowl.
  - In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, and toast the bread cubes until they are lightly browned and crisp.
  - Add the toasted bread cubes to the onion mixture.
  - Stir in the dried oregano and milk. Let the mixture cool slightly.
  - Mix in the grated asiago cheese.
Add Pesto:
- Remove the pork chops from the oven after the initial 15 minutes of baking.
- Place a teaspoon of basil pesto on the top of each pork chop.
Add Stuffing:
- Cover the pesto-topped pork chops evenly with the prepared stuffing mixture.
- Sprinkle a little olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the stuffing.
Finish Baking:
- Return the casserole dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 155°F (68°C). This ensures the pork chops are fully cooked and tender.
Final Touch:
- Once baked, remove the pork chops from the oven and sprinkle them lightly with balsamic vinegar for an added burst of flavor.
Serve:
- Serve Lori’s Baked Pork Chops warm, straight from the oven, ensuring the flavors are at their best.

Serving Suggestions:

Lori’s Baked Pork Chops pair wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad. The combination of savory pesto, creamy asiago cheese, and tender pork chops makes for a satisfying and flavorful meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Tips for Success:

Ensure the pork chops are evenly spaced in the casserole dish for even cooking.
Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences, adding more or less salt, pepper, or pesto as desired.
Let the stuffing mixture cool slightly before adding the cheese to prevent it from melting too quickly.
Monitor the internal temperature of the pork chops to ensure they are cooked through but still tender and juicy.

Conclusion:

Lori’s Baked Pork Chops recipe is a testament to creativity in the kitchen, using simple ingredients to create a memorable and delicious dish. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or hosting a casual gathering, this recipe promises to deliver on flavor and satisfaction. Enjoy the process of preparing and savoring this delightful pork chop dish! 🍽️