Description
Succulent pork chops stuffed with smoked gouda and bacon deliver an irresistible flavor explosion that melts in your mouth. Crispy, savory, and packed with rich cheese and smoky bacon, these chops promise a mouthwatering meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 2 center-cut, bone-in pork chops (2 1/4 inches thick)
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 ounces (56 grams) smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
Herbs and Seasonings:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cooking Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the filling by blending shredded smoked Gouda with crispy crumbled bacon, finely chopped fresh parsley, and a pinch of black pepper.
- Carefully create a deep horizontal pocket in each pork chop using a sharp knife, ensuring not to slice completely through the meat.
- Generously stuff the cheese and bacon mixture into the pork chop pockets, pressing gently to distribute evenly.
- Massage the exterior of each pork chop with olive oil, then season thoroughly with salt and remaining black pepper.
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches optimal searing temperature.
- Carefully place the stuffed pork chops into the hot skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side to develop a golden-brown crust.
- Transfer the entire skillet to a preheated 375°F oven, roasting for approximately 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Remove from oven and allow the pork chops to rest for 5 minutes, enabling the juices to redistribute and ensuring maximum tenderness.
Notes
- Choose thick-cut pork chops for easier pocket creation and more stuffing space.
- Pat pork chops dry before seasoning to ensure perfect golden-brown searing and crispy exterior.
- Use high-quality smoked Gouda for deeper, richer flavor that complements the bacon’s smokiness.
- Adjust cooking time for thinner or thicker chops, always checking internal temperature for doneness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 34 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg