Baked Stuffed Pork Chops Recipe

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Cook Time: 45 minutes

This hearty and delicious recipe serves 4 people and combines tender pork chops with a savory corn stuffing, all topped with creamy mushroom soup for extra flavor. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole kernel corn
• 1 cups dry bread crumbs
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 4 thick-cut pork chops
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the corn, bread crumbs, beaten egg, and softened butter. Mix well until the ingredients form a stiff and well-combined mixture.
3. Using a paring knife, carefully cut a deep horizontal slit into each pork chop to create a pocket for the stuffing.
4. Fill each pocket with the corn mixture, pressing it in gently to ensure it's packed well.
5. Place the stuffed pork chops in a baking dish. Once the chops are arranged, pour the condensed mushroom soup over the top of the chops.
6. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the pork chops are fully cooked. Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the pork reaches at least 145F (63C).

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 475
• Total Fat: 21g (27% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 8g (40% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 99mg (33% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 1112mg (48% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 50g (18% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (12% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 24g (48% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 1mg (1% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 106mg (8% Daily Value)
• Iron: 4mg (23% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 457mg (10% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

History and Origin

Baked stuffed pork chops are a dish that resonates with classic American comfort food. The practice of stuffing meat goes back centuries, but stuffed pork chops as we know them today emerged in mid-20th-century America, likely influenced by European traditions of stuffing meats with breadcrumbs, herbs, and vegetables. While stuffed pork chops aren't attributed to a specific region, their popularity in the Midwest and across the U.S. is undeniable, often served at family dinners and festive gatherings. This hearty dish is part of a long culinary tradition where simple ingredients are elevated with a flavorful stuffing, typically combining bread, corn, and a savory sauce.

Regional Variations

Though baked stuffed pork chops have become a staple across America, regional differences shine through in the ingredients and seasoning choices. In the Midwest, you'll often find stuffing made with cornbread, while the Northeast might feature a more herbed bread stuffing with sage and onions. Some regions like the South might opt for a stuffing that includes sausage or a blend of collard greens for added flavor. The stuffing itself often reflects local ingredients, making each variation of this dish a reflection of regional tastes and traditions.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Stuffed pork chops are often confused with other stuffed meat dishes like chicken breasts or turkey. However, pork chops stand out due to their thicker cut, which allows for a substantial stuffing that melds beautifully with the porks flavor. The combination of the stuffingoften made from bread crumbs, corn, and sometimes sausageand the creamy mushroom soup topping gives this dish a unique texture and richness. Unlike many other stuffed meat dishes, where the stuffing might be cooked separately or inside the bird, pork chops are directly filled and baked together, allowing the flavors to meld during the cooking process.

Where is it Served?

Baked stuffed pork chops are often seen as a family dinner dish and are commonly served in homes across America, especially during colder months when hearty meals are more appealing. They are perfect for a Sunday dinner or holiday meal, often accompanied by mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. While not as common in fine dining establishments, this dish remains a crowd-pleaser in casual American restaurants that emphasize comfort food. Its also a popular choice for gatherings and potlucks due to its ease of preparation and ability to feed a crowd.

Fun Facts About Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

• The stuffing can vary significantly depending on what's available, with corn being a common ingredient in many American versions of the recipe.
• Many home cooks add a personal touch by mixing in unique seasonings such as thyme, rosemary, or even hot sauce, making the dish customizable for any palate.
• While the dish is typically made with thick-cut pork chops, some variations use pork loin or tenderloin, which can also be stuffed and baked.
• Leftover stuffing and pork can be used in sandwiches or as a topping for casseroles, making the dish versatile and perfect for leftovers.

FAQ about Baked Stuffed Pork Chops Recipe

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