Welcome to easycrispyrecipes.com, where we bring you delicious and easy-to-follow recipes for every occasion. Today, we’re excited to share a special recipe: John’s Baked Pork Chops Stuffed With Smoked Gouda And Bacon. This dish combines the savory flavors of smoked gouda and bacon with tender, juicy pork chops, creating a meal that’s sure to impress.
Introduction
Pork chops are a versatile and popular meat choice, and when stuffed with smoked gouda and bacon, they become an extraordinary dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The origins of stuffed pork chops can be traced back to European cuisine, where stuffing meats with various fillings has been a culinary tradition for centuries. This recipe brings a modern twist to that tradition, featuring the smoky richness of gouda and the crispy goodness of bacon.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 1 cup smoked gouda cheese, shredded
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create this mouthwatering dish:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Pork Chops
Using a sharp knife, make a horizontal slit in each pork chop to create a pocket for the stuffing. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
3. Make the Stuffing
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded smoked gouda and crumbled bacon. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Stuff the Pork Chops
Fill each pork chop pocket with the gouda and bacon mixture. Use toothpicks to secure the opening if needed.
5. Season the Pork Chops
Brush the pork chops with olive oil. In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the pork chops.
6. Bake the Pork Chops
Place the stuffed pork chops on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let Them Rest
Remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat stays tender and juicy.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious John’s Baked Pork Chops Stuffed With Smoked Gouda And Bacon!
Tips and Variations
- How to Keep Smoked Pork Chops from Drying Out: To keep your smoked pork chops from drying out, avoid overcooking. Using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature can help. Also, letting the meat rest before cutting helps retain the juices.
- Variations: You can experiment with different cheeses and fillings. Try using mozzarella, cheddar, or even a combination of cheeses. Adding spinach or mushrooms can also enhance the flavors.
- Slow Cooker Option: For a slow cooker version, sear the stuffed pork chops in a skillet first, then transfer them to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or until tender.
- Cooking Time: Stuffed pork chops in the oven typically take about 25-30 minutes at 375°F. For thicker chops or additional fillings, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the basic nutritional information per serving of John’s Baked Pork Chops Stuffed With Smoked Gouda And Bacon (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 33g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 720mg
Conclusion
This recipe for John’s Baked Pork Chops Stuffed With Smoked Gouda And Bacon is not only delicious but also relatively easy to prepare. The combination of smoked gouda and bacon adds a rich, savory flavor that elevates the dish to a whole new level. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
We hope you enjoy making and eating these stuffed pork chops as much as we do. If you try this recipe, please leave a comment below and let us know how it turned out. Don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and family on social media, and subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes.