Herbed Pork Chop & Golden Stuffing Bake

Hello, dear friends and fellow flavor seekers! Today, we’re taking a nostalgic journey to the heart of comfort food with a dish that’s bound to become a cherished addition to your family meals: the Herbed Pork Chop and Golden Stuffing Bake. This recipe encapsulates the essence of homestyle cooking, blending the heartiness of pork chops with the savory goodness of herb-infused stuffing—all baked together to create a dish that feels like a warm embrace.

Rooted in the tradition of resourceful cooking, this pairing of pork chops with stuffing started as a way to make hearty meals from simple, available ingredients. What emerged was a delightful combination that has stood the test of time, perfect for those nights when you crave something satisfying yet straightforward, with a hint of rustic charm and a whole lot of heart.

To complement this dish, consider pairing it with some vibrant green beans almond, a fresh garden salad, or a colorful array of roasted root vegetables. These sides will nicely balance the richness of the pork and the depth of the stuffing.

Servings: 4

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

DIRECTIONS:

Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Season the pork chops well with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear them until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. This process is not about cooking them through but rather sealing in those delicious juices.

In a separate skillet, melt the butter and add the onions and celery. Sauté until they become tender and aromatic. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, sage, and thyme, allowing the herbs to release their fragrant oils and meld with the veggies.

Prepare the stuffing mix in a large bowl, according to the package instructions, substituting water with chicken broth for added flavor. Fold the sautéed vegetables into the stuffing.

Grease a baking dish and evenly spread the stuffing mixture on the bottom. Place the seared pork chops on top of the stuffing, gently pressing them in. Don’t forget to pour any leftover juices from the skillet over the chops.

Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the flavors meld together beautifully.

Variations & Tips:

Enhance the stuffing by adding extras like chopped apples for sweetness, dried cranberries for a tart pop, or pecans for a nutty crunch.

For those who love a crispy top on their stuffing, cover the dish with foil for the first half of the bake and then remove it to allow the top to brown and crisp up in the last minutes.

Consider brining the pork chops before cooking to ensure they remain succulent and juicy. A simple brine of water, salt, and a hint of sugar can make all the difference.

This Herbed Pork Chop and Golden Stuffing Bake is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort and tradition, ideal for gathering around the table with loved ones. Enjoy the delicious harmony of flavors and the comforting satisfaction that this dish brings to any dining occasion. Happy cooking and even happier eating!