Welcome to a comforting classic with a twist: Savory Baked Pork Chops with Herb Stuffing! This dish combines juicy, golden-brown pork chops and a flavorful herb stuffing that will make your home smell like a cozy haven.
Pork chops are the star of the show, providing a succulent and hearty protein base. Opt for bone-in chops for extra flavor. A touch of olive oil helps sear them to a beautiful golden brown. Seasoning with salt and black pepper enhances the natural flavors.
Dry bread cubes form the foundation of our stuffing, soaking up all the delicious juices. Unsalted butter adds richness, while onion and celery bring a savory sweetness and crunch. Dried sage and thyme pack an aromatic punch that brings everything together. A splash of chicken broth keeps the stuffing moist and flavorful. Finally, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, savory kick as it melts into the stuffing.
Pair this hearty dish with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts or a simple green salad to balance the richness. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the savory flavors beautifully.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking. While that's happening, season your pork chops on both sides with salt and pepper. This quick step ensures every bite of pork is full of flavor.
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it's shimmering, place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until they're golden brown. You'll hear a satisfying sizzle, and that's when you know you're doing it right. Transfer the seared chops to a baking dish — they'll finish cooking in the oven.
In the same skillet, melt the butter and toss in the chopped onion and celery. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they're soft and just beginning to caramelize. Stir in the dried sage and thyme, letting them cook for another minute to release their lovely aromas.
In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with your dry bread cubes and chicken broth. Mix everything until the bread is evenly moistened. Spread this stuffing mixture evenly around the pork chops in the baking dish. Top it all off by sprinkling Parmesan cheese over the stuffing.
Cover the dish with foil and slide it into your preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes to let all the flavors meld. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes. This step ensures the stuffing gets a nice, golden top while the pork finishes cooking through.