Prosciutto Mozzarella Stuffed Pork Chops Recipe

Experience the delight of perfectly baked pork chops, bursting with the flavors of prosciutto, mozzarella, and spinach. This dish is the perfect balance of savory meat, creamy cheese, and the refreshing touch of spinach. It's a treat for your taste buds and an impressive meal to serve at your next dinner party.

Photos of Stuffed Baked Pork Chops with Prosciutto and Mozzarella Recipe

All of the ingredients in this recipe are available at your local supermarket. However, it's important to note that prosciutto is typically found in the deli section. It's an Italian dry-cured ham that's usually thinly sliced and adds a rich, savory flavor to this dish. The mozzarella used in this recipe is the part-skim variety, which is a healthier option but still gives you the creamy taste you love.

Ingredients for Stuffed Baked Pork Chops with Prosciutto and Mozzarella

Pork chops: The star of the dish, they are delicious and packed with protein.

Seasoned breadcrumbs: They add a nice crust and extra flavor to the pork chops.

Part skim mozzarella: It gives the dish a creamy texture and cheesy flavor.

Prosciutto: This Italian ham adds a rich depth to the dish.

Baby spinach leaves: They add a touch of freshness and balance the rich flavors.

Garlic: Used as a topping, it adds a punch of flavor.

Kosher salt: It enhances the natural flavor of the pork.

Black pepper: This spice adds a bit of heat to the dish.

Olive oil spray: It's used to lightly grease the baking sheet and helps to get a nice golden color on the pork chops.

One reader, Corey Thibodeau says:

The stuffed baked pork chops with prosciutto and mozzarella recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine. The prosciutto adds a delightful saltiness, and the melted mozzarella takes it to the next level. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a hearty, flavorful meal.

Corey Thibodeau

Techniques Required

How to stuff the pork chops: Cut a deep pocket through one side of the pork chops, leaving the sides intact. Then, stuff each pork chop with ½ slice of prosciutto, ½ slice of cheese, and 3 spinach leaves.

How to season the pork chops: Season both sides of the chops with salt and pepper before placing them on a baking sheet.

How to bake the pork chops: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F, then place the seasoned pork chops on a baking sheet. Top them with crushed garlic and breadcrumbs, and bake for 20 minutes.

How To Make Prosciutto Mozzarella Stuffed Pork Chops Recipe

You won’t get enough of these juicy baked stuffed pork chops filled with prosciutto, mozzarella, and baby spinach, then topped with garlic and breadcrumbs!

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

20ozpork chops,(4 chops) center cut, boneless
2tspseasoned breadcrumbs
42gpart skim mozzarella,(2 slices) cut in half, such as Sargento
1ozprosciutto,(2 slices) cut in half
12baby spinach leaves
1clovegarlic,crushed
¼tspkosher salt
black pepper,to taste
olive oil spray

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
Cut a deep pocket all the way through one side of the pork chops, leaving the sides intact.
Stuff each pork chop with ½ slice of prosciutto, ½ slice of cheese, and 3 spinach leaves.
Season both sides of the chops with salt and pepper, then place on a baking sheet.
Top with crushed garlic and breadcrumbs, and bake for 20 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 330.43kcal
Fat: 19.68g
Saturated Fat: 6.15g
Trans Fat: 0.13g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.07g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.33g
Carbohydrates: 2.07g
Fiber: 0.42g
Sugar: 0.24g
Protein: 34.41g
Cholesterol: 109.49mg
Sodium: 409.84mg
Calcium: 125.49mg
Potassium: 599.25mg
Iron: 1.41mg
Vitamin A: 63.21µg
Vitamin C: 3.04mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Stuffed Baked Pork Chops

When stuffing your pork chops, it's important to make the pocket deep enough to hold all the ingredients, but be careful not to cut all the way through. This will ensure that the prosciutto, mozzarella, and spinach stay inside the chop during baking. Using a sharp knife, make a horizontal slit along the chop, stopping just before you cut through. This will create a 'pocket' that can be stuffed with the ingredients. Remember, the goal is to keep the stuffing inside the chop, so take your time and be careful not to tear the meat.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Stuffed Baked Pork Chops

Prep ahead: Prepare the stuffed pork chops the night before and store them in the refrigerator. This way, all you have to do is pop them in the oven when you're ready to cook.

Use pre-sliced cheese and prosciutto: Save time by using pre-sliced mozzarella and prosciutto, eliminating the need to slice them yourself.

Invest in a good quality sheet pan: A good quality sheet pan can help distribute heat evenly and prevent the pork chops from sticking, making cleanup easier.

Multi-task: While the pork chops are baking, use that time to prepare a simple side dish or salad to complete the meal.

Sharp knives: Make sure your knives are sharp to make the process of cutting through the pork chops and other ingredients easier and quicker.

Substitute Ingredients For Stuffed Baked Pork Chops with Prosciutto and Mozzarella Recipe

pork chops - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast can be used as a lean and flavorful alternative to pork chops, offering a lighter taste and tender texture when baked.
seasoned breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs can provide a lighter and crispier texture, adding a delightful crunch to the dish.
part skim mozzarella - Substitute with part skim provolone: Provolone cheese offers a similar mild and creamy flavor, and its melting properties make it a suitable replacement for mozzarella.
prosciutto - Substitute with smoked turkey: Smoked turkey can provide a similar salty and savory flavor, adding depth to the dish while offering a leaner alternative to prosciutto.
baby spinach leaves - Substitute with arugula: Arugula can provide a peppery and slightly bitter flavor, adding a unique twist to the dish while still offering a tender and delicate texture.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can offer a milder and slightly sweet flavor, providing a subtle aromatic element to the dish without overpowering the other ingredients.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar level of salinity and enhance the overall flavor of the dish, while also offering a slightly different mineral profile.
olive oil spray - Substitute with avocado oil spray: Avocado oil spray can offer a similar light and neutral flavor, as well as a high smoke point, making it suitable for baking and adding a hint of richness to the dish.

Presenting Stuffed Baked Pork Chops

Elevate the pork chops: Carefully arrange the stuffed pork chops on a large, elegant platter, ensuring they are evenly spaced and visually appealing.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the presentation.
Drizzle with balsamic reduction: Create a beautiful design on the plate using a balsamic reduction, adding a touch of sophistication and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Accompany with roasted vegetables: Serve the stuffed pork chops alongside a medley of colorful roasted vegetables, arranged in an artful manner to complement the dish.
Use fine dining plating techniques: Employ techniques such as quenelle shaping for the side dishes and precise sauce drizzling to create a visually stunning and refined presentation.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or pansies, to add an elegant and delicate touch to the plating, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate, allowing the dish to stand out and be the focal point of the presentation.
Highlight the stuffing ingredients: Arrange a small portion of the prosciutto, mozzarella, and spinach used in the stuffing alongside the pork chops to showcase the key components of the dish.

Essential Tools for Making This Recipe

Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking and roasting food by providing dry heat.
Baking sheet: A flat, metal sheet used to bake items in the oven, providing a surface for even cooking.
Knife: A sharp tool used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Cutting board: A sturdy board used for cutting and preparing food items.
Measuring spoons: Utensils used to measure small amounts of ingredients accurately.
Measuring cups: Utensils used to measure dry or liquid ingredients accurately.
Garlic press: A tool used to crush garlic cloves efficiently.
Olive oil spray: A convenient tool for lightly coating pans and food with olive oil.

How To Store and Freeze Stuffed Baked Pork Chops

Let the pork chops cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the breadcrumb topping soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled pork chops in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the pork chops. Wrap each chop individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Then, place the wrapped chops in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Frozen pork chops will maintain their best quality for up to 2-3 months. After that, they will still be safe to eat but may experience some changes in texture and flavor.
To reheat refrigerated pork chops, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chops on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with foil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
If reheating frozen pork chops, it's best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Once thawed, follow the same reheating instructions as for refrigerated chops. If you need to reheat them directly from frozen, increase the baking time to 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
Keep in mind that reheated pork chops may have a slightly different texture compared to freshly baked ones, and the breadcrumb topping may not be as crispy. To help crisp up the topping, you can remove the foil for the last few minutes of reheating.

How To Reheat Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover stuffed pork chops on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Loosely cover the chops with another piece of foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes of reheating to crisp up the breadcrumbs and prosciutto.
For a quicker option, reheat the stuffed pork chops in the microwave. Place the chops on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chops and the power of your microwave. Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 145°F (63°C). Let the chops rest for 1-2 minutes before serving to allow the heat to distribute evenly.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your stuffed pork chops while maintaining their crispy exterior. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chops in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). The hot air circulation will help crisp up the breadcrumbs and prosciutto while keeping the pork juicy.
For a stovetop method, heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-duty pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the stuffed pork chops and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This method will help create a crispy exterior while reheating the chops thoroughly.

Random Fact about Stuffed Baked Pork Chops with Prosciutto and Mozzarella

Prosciutto is an Italian dry-cured ham that adds a rich and savory flavor to the stuffed baked pork chops with prosciutto and mozzarella recipe.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This stuffed baked pork chops with prosciutto and mozzarella recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The combination of pork, prosciutto, and mozzarella may be slightly pricier, but the dish's flavor and quality make it worth the investment. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10, considering the delightful blend of flavors and the satisfying nature of the dish.

Is This Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

The stuffed baked pork chops recipe, while delicious, has some aspects that could be considered unhealthy. The use of prosciutto and mozzarella adds significant amounts of saturated fat and sodium to the dish. Pork chops themselves are also relatively high in fat, particularly if they are not trimmed properly. On the positive side, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients like spinach and garlic, which provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use leaner cuts of pork, such as pork loin or tenderloin, and trim any visible fat
Replace the prosciutto with a lower-sodium alternative, such as turkey bacon or lean ham
Opt for low-fat or part-skim mozzarella to reduce the saturated fat content
Increase the amount of spinach or add other vegetables, such as roasted red peppers or zucchini, to boost the nutrient content
Use whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for added fiber
Reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe, as the prosciutto and cheese already contribute significant amounts of sodium
Consider using a healthier cooking method, such as grilling or broiling, instead of baking to reduce the overall fat content of the dish

Editor's Thoughts on This Delectable Dish

This recipe for stuffed baked pork chops with prosciutto and mozzarella is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The prosciutto adds a savory depth, while the mozzarella brings a creamy richness to the dish. The addition of spinach and garlic provides a burst of freshness and aroma. The seasoned breadcrumbs add a satisfying crunch to the exterior of the pork chops. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful way to elevate a classic pork chop dish, and it's sure to impress your guests with its delicious and sophisticated flavors.

Enhance Your Stuffed Baked Pork Chops with Prosciutto and Mozzarella Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic and parmesan cheese

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables drizzled with balsamic glaze

Garlic Bread: Buttery garlic breadsticks with a sprinkle of fresh parsley

Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dish

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Marinate the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Grill until cooked through and serve with a side of roasted vegetables.

Mango Avocado Salsa: Combine diced mango, avocado, red onion, jalapeno, cilantro, and lime juice. Serve as a refreshing topping for grilled fish or chicken.

Butternut Squash Soup: Roast butternut squash, onions, and garlic until caramelized. Blend with vegetable broth, nutmeg, and a touch of cream for a comforting fall soup.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Stuffed Baked Pork Chops

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a delectable appetizer by stuffing large mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, and cheese. Bake until golden and serve hot for a crowd-pleasing starter.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: Whip up a batch of crispy zucchini fritters by shredding fresh zucchini and mixing it with herbs, spices, and a touch of parmesan. Pan-fry until golden brown and serve with a side of creamy dipping sauce for a delightful appetizer.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant dessert is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner at home.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and a crunchy oat topping. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat.

Why trust this Stuffed Baked Pork Chops with Prosciutto and Mozzarella Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delectable experience, as it features succulent pork chops stuffed with savory prosciutto and gooey mozzarella, creating a symphony of flavors. The addition of spinach and garlic infuses freshness and depth, while the seasoned breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch. The dish is baked to perfection, ensuring a juicy and tender result. Trust the expertise behind this recipe to elevate your culinary journey with its tantalizing blend of ingredients.

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FAQ:

What is the best type of pork chops to use for this recipe?

I recommend using boneless pork chops that are about 1 inch thick. This allows for a good-sized pocket to stuff and ensures the pork stays juicy while baking.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for mozzarella, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone, Swiss, or even cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed pork chops ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just make sure to cover them well to prevent them from drying out.

What can I serve with the stuffed pork chops?

These stuffed pork chops go well with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. The options are endless!

How can I tell if the pork chops are fully cooked?

The best way to ensure the pork chops are fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) before removing them from the oven.