There are some meals that feel like a special occasion, yet are simple enough to make on a Tuesday night. This recipe for Swiss Cheese-Stuffed Pork Chops is the perfect example. It’s an elegant and delicious dish that features a perfectly seared, juicy pork chop with a surprise center of warm, gooey Swiss cheese. Paired with a simple side of fresh garlic spinach, this is a complete meal that is incredibly satisfying and feels like it came from a fine dining restaurant. This is a special dinner that is surprisingly easy to make and is guaranteed to impress.
Why I love This Recipe
I’m a huge fan of recipes that build layers of flavor with minimal fuss, and this one is a true hero in my kitchen. What I love most is how the cheesy filling acts as a natural way to keep the pork chop incredibly moist and juicy as it cooks. The combination of the savory pork, the nutty flavor of the Swiss cheese, and the earthy, garlicky spinach is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a complete meal on a single plate that feels both comforting and sophisticated. The two-step cooking process—a quick sear followed by a bake in the oven—ensures a perfect result every time.
Ingredients
- 4 thick-cut boneless pork chops
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine (for securing)
Swaps and Notes
- Pork Chops: This recipe works best with thick-cut boneless pork chops, about 1-1.5 inches thick. This allows you to create a proper pocket for the cheese without the chop falling apart.
- Cheese: Swiss cheese is a perfect choice for this dish due to its nutty flavor and excellent melting properties. You can also use other cheeses like provolone, Gruyère, or even some mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach is a great choice for a side dish, as it wilts quickly and pairs beautifully with the rich pork and cheese. You can also use other vegetables like sautéed broccoli or roasted asparagus.
- Garlic: The fresh garlic in the spinach adds a wonderful savory flavor that complements the dish perfectly. You can adjust the amount of garlic to your personal taste.
- Securing the Chops: Using toothpicks or kitchen twine is crucial for keeping the cheese inside the pork chops as they cook. Be sure to remove them before serving!
List of Steps for the Recipe
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Chops: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the side of each pork chop without cutting all the way through.
- Stuff and Secure: Place a slice of Swiss cheese inside the pocket of each pork chop. Use one or two toothpicks or a piece of kitchen twine to secure the opening.
- Season and Sear: Season both sides of the stuffed pork chops generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for 2−3 minutes per side until they are golden brown.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15−20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Sauté the Spinach: While the pork chops are baking, heat a small pan with a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until it has wilted, which should take about 2−3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Carefully remove the toothpicks or twine from the pork chops. Serve the hot pork chops with the garlic spinach on the side.
Tips for Success
- Use Thick Pork Chops: Using a thick-cut pork chop is key to this recipe. A thin chop will be difficult to stuff and will overcook quickly.
- Don’t Overcook the Pork: The best way to ensure a juicy, tender pork chop is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of pork should be 145°F.
- Pat the Pork Dry: Patting the pork chops dry with a paper towel before seasoning is a crucial step for getting a proper sear.
- Use an Oven-Safe Pan: Using a skillet that can go from the stovetop to the oven simplifies the process and allows you to capture all the delicious flavors from the sear.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a few simple sides. A side of creamy mashed potatoes or some fluffy rice would be a great complement to the juicy pork and cheesy sauce. A loaf of warm, crusty bread would also be perfect for soaking up any extra juices.
For a drink pairing, a dry white wine like a Chardonnay or a Sauvignon Blanc would be a perfect complement to the savory flavors of the pork and cheese.
Nutritional Information
(Please note that this is an estimate and will vary based on specific brands and portion sizes)
This is a hearty, satisfying meal that is a great source of protein from the pork. The Swiss cheese and olive oil add fats, while the spinach provides vitamins and fiber. It’s a wonderfully delicious meal that is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Leftovers of this dish are fantastic! Store any remaining portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can place a serving in a microwave-safe dish and warm it up, or for a better texture, place it in a covered oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Final Thoughts
This Swiss Cheese-Stuffed Pork Chops recipe is a timeless classic for a reason. It’s an elegant, delicious, and easy meal that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of a juicy pork chop and a gooey cheese center is simply irresistible. I hope you enjoy this sophisticated and delicious meal as much as I do!
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