Mozzarella Stuffed Pork Chops

Elevate your dinner table with these irresistible Mozzarella Stuffed Pork Chops, a perfect combination of juicy pork, creamy melted mozzarella, and savory sautéed spinach. This impressive yet easy-to-make recipe features thick-cut pork chops filled with a flavorful mixture of fresh mozzarella and spinach seasoned with garlic, paprika, and Italian herbs. Searing the pork chops to golden perfection before finishing them off in the oven ensures a tender bite with a crispy, caramelized crust. Ready in just 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight indulgence or a special dinner party centerpiece. Serve these cheesy, protein-packed pork chops alongside roasted veggies or a fresh salad for a complete, mouthwatering meal.

Nutriscore Rating: 59/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 pieces pork chops (bone-in or boneless, thick cut at least 1.5 inches)
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 8 pieces toothpicks or kitchen twine

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2

Using a sharp knife, cut a horizontal pocket into each pork chop, being careful not to cut all the way through.

Step 3

Season both sides of the pork chops with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Rub the seasonings in evenly.

Step 4

In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute, then add the fresh spinach leaves. Cook until the spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 5

Slice the mozzarella cheese into thick slices and stuff each pork chop pocket with equal portions of mozzarella and the sautéed spinach mixture.

Step 6

Secure the opening of each pork chop with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the filling in place.

Step 7

In an oven-safe skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side until a golden crust forms.

Step 8

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C).

Step 9

Remove from the oven and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures maximum flavor.

Step 10

Carefully remove the toothpicks or twine before serving. Serve warm and enjoy your Mozzarella Stuffed Pork Chops!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1000.1 grams (1000.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2013

Total Fat 141.20g	181%
Saturated Fat 60.80g	304%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 478mg	159%
Sodium 4102mg	178%
Total Carbohydrate 14.80g	5%
Dietary Fiber 2.80g	10%
Total Sugars 8.60g
Protein 150.80g	302%

Vitamin D 28IU	140%
Calcium 1307mg	101%
Iron 8mg	45%
Potassium 1928mg	41%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 65.7%

Protein: 31.2%

Carbs: 3.1%