Are you searching for a hearty and satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further than this Herbed Pork Chop and Golden Stuffing Bake! This delicious dish combines juicy pork chops with golden, herb-infused stuffing for a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Plus, with options for keto and low-carb variations, everyone can enjoy this comforting meal. So fire up your oven and get ready to indulge in a taste sensation that will leave you craving more!
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 package of your favorite stuffing mix
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter and set aside.
- Season the Pork Chops: Rub the pork chops with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Prepare the Stuffing: In a large mixing bowl, prepare the stuffing mix according to package instructions, using chicken broth instead of water for added flavor.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onions and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic powder, dried sage, and dried thyme, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the sautéed vegetables to the prepared stuffing mixture and stir until well combined.
- Assemble the Bake: Spread the stuffing mixture evenly in the bottom of the greased baking dish. Place the seasoned pork chops on top of the stuffing.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the stuffing is golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the foil from the baking dish and serve the Herbed Pork Chop and Golden Stuffing Bake hot. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Some Heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the stuffing mixture.
- Make it Cheesy: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese on top of the stuffing before baking for an extra layer of flavor.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Substitute dried herbs with fresh herbs such as chopped parsley, rosemary, or thyme for a burst of fresh flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
To make this Herbed Pork Chop and Golden Stuffing Bake keto-friendly, consider the following adjustments:
- Replace the traditional stuffing mix with a low-carb alternative made from almond flour or coconut flour.
- Use chicken broth with no added sugar or low-carb broth to keep the carb count low.
- Increase the fat content by adding additional butter or olive oil to the stuffing mixture.
Low-Carb Version:
For those looking to cut carbs, try the following modifications:
- Substitute the traditional stuffing mix with cauliflower rice or a combination of chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms.
- Use a low-carb chicken broth or homemade broth made from chicken bones and vegetables.
- Limit the amount of onions and celery in the stuffing mixture or replace them with lower-carb options such as diced bell peppers or spinach.
In conclusion, this Herbed Pork Chop and Golden Stuffing Bake is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its juicy pork chops, golden stuffing, and flavorful herb-infused seasoning, it’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a delicious home-cooked meal, this dish is a winner. So why not give it a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in? A: Yes, boneless pork chops can be used in this recipe. Keep in mind that boneless chops may cook faster, so adjust the baking time accordingly to prevent overcooking.
Q: Can I make the stuffing from scratch instead of using a mix? A: Absolutely! If you prefer to make the stuffing from scratch, you can use your favorite homemade stuffing recipe instead of a packaged mix. Simply prepare the stuffing according to your recipe’s instructions and proceed with the recipe as directed.
Q: Can I use different types of herbs in the stuffing? A: Yes, feel free to customize the herb seasoning to suit your taste preferences. Experiment with different combinations of herbs such as rosemary, parsley, or marjoram for a unique flavor profile.
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake it later? A: Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the dish from the refrigerator, let it come to room temperature, and bake as directed.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this dish? A: Yes, leftovers of this Herbed Pork Chop and Golden Stuffing Bake can be frozen for later enjoyment. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the entire dish to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
