Easy Pork Chop and Corn Stuffing Bake Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to Love With Recipes, where culinary comfort meets simplicity and flavor in every dish. Today, we’re diving into a hearty, satisfying meal that combines the tender juiciness of perfectly cooked pork chops with a savory, sweet, and slightly tangy corn stuffing. This recipe is designed for those busy weeknights or cozy weekends when you want a nutritious, flavorful, and visually appealing dish with minimal fuss. The beauty of this Pork Chop and Corn Stuffing Bake lies in its one-pan convenience, rich textures, and versatile ingredients that can be easily customized to suit your taste buds or dietary needs.

The harmony of flavors—savory pork, sweet corn, aromatic herbs, and a hint of Dijon mustard—creates a balanced and comforting meal that appeals to all ages. As part of the American cuisine repertoire, this dish exemplifies home-style cooking with a modern twist, ensuring each bite provides warmth, satisfaction, and a sense of wholesome goodness. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe can be scaled up or down with ease, making it a versatile addition to your culinary collection.

Estimated Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes

This efficient timeline allows you to serve a delicious, well-rounded meal in less than an hour, perfect for those who value both taste and time efficiency. The prep involves minimal chopping and mixing, while the baking process ensures the pork is tender and the stuffing is golden and crispy on the edges.

Needed Equipment

• Oven (capable of reaching 400°F / 200°C)
• 9-inch pie dish or similar baking dish (preferably ceramic or glass)
• Mixing bowls (at least 2, for mixing stuffing and glaze)
• Measuring cups and spoons (for accuracy)
• Sharp knife (for dicing onion and celery)
• Cutting board (preferably non-slip)
• Cooking spray or butter (for greasing the dish)
• Spatula or spoon (for mixing and spreading)
• Food thermometer (optional but recommended for checking pork temperature)

Tags

Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, One-Pan Meal, Family Friendly, Quick Recipes, Oven Baked, Pork Recipes, Corn Dishes, Weeknight Dinner, Hearty Meals

Serving Size

This recipe yields four generous servings, making it ideal for a family dinner or a small gathering. Each serving includes a succulent pork chop paired with a hearty portion of stuffing, ensuring a balanced and filling meal. Adjustments can be made to increase or decrease servings based on your needs, with the ingredients scaled proportionally.

Difficulty Level

This recipe is classified as easy, making it suitable for beginner cooks or anyone looking for a straightforward yet flavorful dish. The steps involve simple mixing, layering, and baking, with minimal prep work and no complicated techniques involved. The process emphasizes timing and ingredient quality to achieve optimal results.

Allergen Information

• Gluten: Yes, due to the herb-seasoned stuffing mix
• Dairy: None required, but check your stuffing mix for added ingredients if dairy-free
• Soy: None
• Nuts: None
• Eggs: None
• Meat: Pork

If you have gluten sensitivities or allergies, consider using gluten-free stuffing mixes or making your own stuffing from scratch with gluten-free bread or grains.

Dietary Preference

This recipe aligns with omnivorous diets, offering a protein-rich, satisfying meal. It can be adapted for specific dietary needs by substituting ingredients, such as using gluten-free stuffing or a plant-based protein alternative in place of pork, for vegetarians or vegans (with appropriate modifications).

Course

Main Course

Cuisine

American

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare the Stuffing Mixture

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that once your dish is assembled, it can bake immediately, maintaining optimal temperature for thorough cooking and browning. While the oven heats, prepare the stuffing mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine the herb-seasoned stuffing mix, drained corn, diced onion, and diced celery. Use a large spoon or spatula to stir the mixture thoroughly, ensuring that each component is evenly distributed. Proper mixing guarantees uniform flavor and texture in every bite.

Step 2: Grease and Layer the Baking Dish

Take your 9-inch pie dish or suitable baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter. This prevents sticking and facilitates easy cleanup. Spoon the prepared stuffing mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly across the bottom. Use the back of the spoon or a spatula to create a smooth, level surface, ensuring even baking and a consistent base for the pork chops.

Step 3: Place the Pork Chops on Top

Arrange the boneless pork chops on top of the stuffing layer. Space them evenly, ensuring they are in contact with the stuffing but not overlapping. This positioning allows the heat to circulate properly, resulting in evenly cooked meat. If you prefer bone-in chops, they can be used, but cooking times may vary slightly. For best results, choose chops that are approximately 1 inch thick, which ensures they cook through while remaining juicy.

Step 4: Prepare and Apply the Glaze

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and Dijon mustard. Stir vigorously until the sugar dissolves completely, creating a smooth, tangy glaze. This sweet and tangy mixture will caramelize as it bakes, forming a flavorful crust on the pork chops. Using a spoon or brush, evenly spoon or brush the glaze over the top of each pork chop. Be generous but ensure each piece is coated for maximum flavor impact.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 30 minutes, but start checking around the 25-minute mark for doneness. Use a food thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C), which guarantees safety and optimal juiciness. The stuffing should be golden and crispy at the edges, and the pork chops should be tender and slightly caramelized on top.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once baking is complete, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for about 3-5 minutes. Resting helps redistribute the juices within the pork, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful. Use a spatula to serve portions, carefully lifting the pork chops along with a generous helping of stuffing. Plate immediately to enjoy the warm, comforting flavors that this dish offers.

Preparation Tips

• Use quality ingredients: Fresh vegetables and good-quality pork will elevate the dish. The herb-seasoned stuffing mix adds flavor, but you can enhance it with additional herbs like thyme or rosemary if desired.
• Adjust cooking times for thickness: Thicker pork chops may require additional baking time; always check with a meat thermometer for safety.
• Customize the stuffing: Incorporate extras like chopped bell peppers, shredded carrots, or herbs to add more color and flavor.
• Make ahead: Prepare the stuffing mixture and assemble the dish a few hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake, saving time on busy days.
• Ensure even cooking: Let the pork chops sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before baking to promote even cooking.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Use a meat thermometer: Always check the internal temperature of the pork to ensure safety and juiciness. The target temperature is 145°F (63°C).
• Enhance flavor: Add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the stuffing for an aromatic boost.
• For extra crispiness: Broil the dish for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
• Glaze variations: Swap Dijon mustard with honey or balsamic vinegar for different flavor profiles.
• Vegetable options: Incorporate chopped bell peppers, shredded carrots, or mushrooms into the stuffing for added nutrients and flavor.

Add-ons and Variations

• Cheese topping: Sprinkle shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella over the pork during the last 5 minutes of baking for a melty, cheesy crust.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the glaze for those who enjoy heat.
• Herb crust: Coat the pork chops with a mixture of herbs and spices before baking for more intense seasoning.

Side Dishes

Complement this hearty main with a variety of side dishes such as:

• Steamed green beans or asparagus
• Roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts
• Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta
• A fresh mixed green salad with vinaigrette
• Crusty artisan bread or dinner rolls

Improvements and Customizations

• Vegetarian version: Substitute pork with plant-based protein or hearty vegetables like portobello mushrooms, and use vegetable broth or stock for added flavor.
• Gluten-free adaptation: Use gluten-free stuffing mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
• Flavor enhancements: Experiment with smoked paprika, garlic powder, or fresh herbs to elevate the dish’s depth.
• Make it a casserole: Layer the stuffing, pork, and glaze in a larger dish for a more communal presentation.

Save and Store

Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Note: The pork may lose some of its moisture upon reheating, so adding a splash of broth or water can help restore juiciness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use bone-in pork chops?

Yes, bone-in chops can be used, but they may require a slightly longer baking time—about 35-40 minutes—depending on thickness. Always check internal temperature for safety.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the dish sans glaze, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking. Add the glaze just before baking for maximum caramelization and flavor.

What if I don’t have herb-seasoned stuffing mix?

You can make your own stuffing from scratch using bread cubes, herbs, and seasonings, or use a different flavored stuffing mix to customize the taste.

Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, by choosing a gluten-free stuffing mix and ensuring all ingredients are free from gluten contamination, this dish can be enjoyed by those with gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion

The Pork Chop and Corn Stuffing Bake from Love With Recipes exemplifies comfort food done right—simple, flavorful, and versatile. Its combination of tender pork, sweet corn, and savory stuffing creates a dish that satisfies both the palate and the soul. Perfect for busy weeknights, casual family dinners, or even small gatherings, this recipe emphasizes efficiency without sacrificing quality or taste. The minimal equipment, quick preparation, and straightforward steps make it accessible for cooks of all skill levels, while the customizable elements allow you to tailor it to your preferences. Incorporate fresh herbs, experiment with different fillings, or add a cheese topping to make this dish uniquely yours. Serve it alongside your favorite vegetables or a crisp salad to round out the meal, and enjoy the comforting flavors that bring people together around the table.

Remember, the key to success is quality ingredients, proper timing, and a little bit of culinary creativity. Happy cooking!