Indulge in Pork Chops Stuffed with Smoked Gouda and Bacon, featuring juicy pork chops filled with creamy gouda, crispy bacon, and optional spinach, cooked to perfection in a savory sauce.
Author:Ava
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
4 thick-cut, bone-in pork chops
1 cup smoked gouda cheese, shredded
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup spinach, chopped (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a touch of acidity)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season pork chops with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
In a bowl, mix smoked gouda, crumbled bacon, garlic, and spinach.
Cut a pocket into each pork chop and stuff with the gouda mixture.
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear pork chops on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until pork chops are cooked through.
Remove pork chops from the skillet and set aside. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, and butter to the skillet, bringing to a simmer.
Stir until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Return pork chops to the skillet and spoon sauce over them.
Garnish with parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Ensure pork chops are thick enough to hold the stuffing and maintain moisture.
Use freshly shredded smoked gouda for the best melting and flavor.
Optional spinach adds color and nutrients but can be omitted if desired.