Stuffed pork chops take the flavor and juiciness of pork to the next level. When bone-in chops are stuffed with a savory filling and baked in the oven, you get an easy, impressive meal that feels special. However, with the pork and filling cooking at different rates, it can be tricky to nail the bake time and temperature. Undercook the pork, and you risk raw meat. Overcook it, and you’ll dry it out.
In this article, we’ll explore exactly how long and at what temperature you should bake stuffed pork chops for ideal doneness of both the pork and the filling. Follow these tips, and you’ll enjoy tender, juicy chops encasing a fully cooked, melted filling. Let’s get into the details!
Choosing the Right Thickness of Pork Chops
When baking stuffed chops, chop thickness matters. Thinner chops cook faster, while thicker chops need more time. For the best results when stuffing and baking, choose bone-in rib or loin chops between 1-1 1⁄2 inches thick. Thinner chops won’t hold the filling as well. Chops over 1 1⁄2 inches thick will take too long to cook through.
Aim for 4 chops in the 1-1 1⁄2 inch range to serve 4 people, Having chops of consistent size will help them bake evenly Thicker and thinner chops mixed together will require you to remove them at different times
Browning the Pork Chops First
Before stuffing and baking, it’s important to sear the raw pork chops first. Heating oil in a large skillet over medium high heat, cook the chops for 2-3 minutes per side until nicely browned.
Browning helps render excess fat develops flavor through the Maillard reaction and creates a “crust” to seal in juices during baking. Chops stuffed without browning first will release moisture into the filling as they cook.
How to Make the Stuffing
When it comes to the stuffing for stuffed pork chops, you have lots of options. Some delicious fillings include:
- Herbed bread stuffing
- Cornbread and sausage stuffing
- Apple, onion, and sage stuffing
- Spinach, feta, and sun-dried tomato stuffing
- Rice pilaf with mushrooms
- Cuban-style black beans and rice
Whatever you choose, allow the stuffing to cool fully before using to prevent premature cooking of the pork. Pack the stuffing tightly into the chop’s pocket slit to prevent leakage.
Baking Time and Temperature
For 1-1 1⁄2 inch thick brown-first stuffed chops, follow these guidelines:
Temperature: Bake at 350°F
Time: Bake for 45-60 minutes
The mid-range 350°F temperature allows the inside to cook through without burning or over-browning the outside. Meanwhile, the 45-60 minute window ensures the pork reaches safe eating temperature while also thoroughly cooking the stuffing.
Checking for Doneness
When the bake time is up, confirm the pork chops are fully cooked using two methods:
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Temperature check: Use an instant read thermometer to check the internal temp of the thickest part of the chops. They are safely cooked at 145°F.
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Cut to inspect: Cut into the center of one chop to inspect doneness. The pork should be just slightly pink in the very center. The stuffing should be hot with no raw spots.
If needed, return to the oven for 5-10 minutes until properly cooked. Check again before serving.
Letting Rest and Slicing
Once baked to a safe internal temperature, remove the stuffed chops from the oven. Lightly tent with foil and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Resting allows juices to redistribute so they don’t run out when cutting. To serve, carefully slice into each stuffed chop to expose the delicious filling inside.
Cooking Tips
Follow these extra tips for baked stuffed pork chop success:
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Use a digital thermometer with a probe to monitor internal temp without having to cut open.
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If the stuffing browns too quickly, tent chops lightly with foil without crimping tightly.
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For extra juiciness, brine chops in a saltwater solution for 30 mins prior to stuffing.
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Substitute apple juice or broth for some of the stuffing liquid to add extra moisture.
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Add a sauce like gravy, mustard cream, or pan juices for even more flavor.
Mastering the bake time and temperature for stuffed pork chops elevates a humble staple into a restaurant-worthy entrée. With 1-1 1⁄2 inch chops browned then baked at 350°F for 45-60 minutes until 145°F internal, you’ll achieve chops that are juicy, tender and perfectly stuffed. Serve with delicious sides like garlic mashed potatoes or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
So next time a craving for stuffed chops hits, use this guide to enjoy bakery-style results right from your own oven. Impress your family and friends with your chop-stuffing skills. Just be ready for requests for leftovers!
Stuffed Pork Chops | a quick and easy dinner to make for company
What temperature should stuffed pork chops be cooked at?
An indication that your stuffed pork chops are perfect is through their internal temperature, which should be sitting just right around 145 degrees F, for medium-rare chops. Let it reach 155 degrees F for medium to medium-well, while 160 degrees F for chops that are well done. How to cook stuffed pork chops in the oven?
How long to cook stuffed pork chops in oven?
This is the best and most ideal way to cook your baked chops. It usually starts with searing before cooking the stuffed pork chops in the oven. It takes around 3 minutes per side on the stove, and an additional 10-15 minutes in the oven at 400 degrees.
How long do you cook pork chops in the oven?
Otherwise, transfer the seared pork chops to a baking dish. Bake, uncovered, in the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C) with a meat thermometer, and the stuffing is hot and slightly crispy on the outside.
How do you make stuffed pork chops?
These easy, baked stuffed pork chops are made in the oven with boneless chops and leftover or stovetop stuffing. Add an apple slice or two for a bit of sweetness. Preheat oven to 350˚F. Cut a pocket into side of each pork chop (leaving fat side intact). Stuff pork chops, dividing stuffing equally between pork chops.