Elevate your dinner game with a dish that's as impressive as it is delicious: Apple Almond Sage Stuffed Pork Chops! This mouthwatering recipe combines the savory richness of perfectly cooked pork with a sweet and nutty stuffing that will leave your taste buds dancing. Imagine succulent pork chops bursting with the flavors of fresh apples, crunchy almonds, and aromatic sage—all baked to perfection in just under an hour. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Ready to bring a touch of culinary magic to your kitchen? Let’s dive into the details!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1 cup chopped apples
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your pork chops cook evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare the stuffing mixture. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped apples, chopped almonds, fresh sage, and breadcrumbs. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Season the stuffing mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- Take the pork chops and use a sharp knife to create a pocket in each chop. Be careful not to cut all the way through; you want to create a space to hold the stuffing.
- Stuff each pork chop with the apple almond sage mixture, pressing it in gently to ensure it fills the pocket well.
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Allow the oil to heat up until it shimmers.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the stuffed pork chops in the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned.
- After searing, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the pork chops for about 20-25 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat moist.
- Serve the apple almond sage stuffed pork chops warm, garnished with additional fresh sage if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Choose the Right Pork Chops: Opt for bone-in pork chops for added flavor and moisture, but boneless will work just fine if that's what you have on hand.
- Sear for Flavor: Don’t skip the searing step! Browning the pork chops before baking enhances the flavor and creates a delicious crust.
- Experiment with Stuffing: Feel free to customize the stuffing! Add dried cranberries for a tart kick or swap in different nuts for a unique twist.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe and juicy results.
- Let Them Rest: After baking, allow the pork chops to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices for a more tender bite.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh sage or a drizzle of balsamic reduction can elevate the dish’s presentation and flavor.Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor every bite of this delightful dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 120mg
