Grilled stuffed pork chops are not just a feast for the eyes; they are a culinary delight full of flavor and versatility. So, what to serve alongside this mouthwatering dish? You might consider a light, refreshing salad, perhaps a vibrant Greek salad loaded with ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and Kalamata olives. A side of roasted seasonal vegetables, seasoned with a hint of garlic and thyme, adds an earthy touch that complements the savory pork. If you’re in the mood for something comforting, creamy mashed potatoes or even a fluffy quinoa pilaf can balance the richness of the dish.
Now, let’s dive into why this grilled stuffed pork chop recipe deserves a spot on your dinner table. This juicy creation is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. With flavorful fillings that poke through tender, grilled pork, each bite is full of warmth and satisfaction. It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Who doesn’t love the charm of grilling? The smoky goodness envelops the pork, while the stuffing, packed with fresh ingredients, gives every bite excitement. If you haven’t tried this yet, you’re missing out on a fabulous combination of textures and tastes.
Why This Recipe is Great for You
I’ve prepared countless meals in my kitchen, and let me tell you, this one stands out. Not only is it straightforward, but it also brings a burst of nutrition and flavor to the table. With wholesome ingredients like spinach and feta, this dish supports your healthy lifestyle. Plus, the best part? You can prepare it in no time, making it ideal for busy evenings when you still want a home-cooked meal that feels special. As a registered dietitian, I always seek ways to make healthy eating enjoyable, and this recipe hits the mark.
When I developed this recipe, I wanted to create something that combined rich flavor with vibrant, fresh ingredients. The sweet, slightly bitter taste of spinach perfectly balances the savory, creamy feta, and those garlic notes? They elevate the dish entirely. Plus, each juicy bite of pork chop delivers a delightful crunch from the filling—it’s simply irresistible.
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Ingredients List
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 cups fresh chopped spinach
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves (finely minced)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
This combo of ingredients proves that healthy can also mean hearty. Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking.
How to Make Grilled Stuffed Pork Chops
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
First, gather all your ingredients. You want everything at the ready. Chop your spinach finely and mince the garlic. Measure out your spices. This makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a bowl, combine the fresh spinach, crumbled feta, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix everything until it’s well combined—trust me, the aroma of garlic and feta will have your taste buds dancing.
Step 3: Butterfly the Pork Chops
Take your pork chops and make a cut down the side, being careful not to cut all the way through. You’re looking for a “pocket” to fill with your delightful spinach mixture. This adds flavor and tenderness to the pork.
Step 4: Stuff the Pork Chops
Spoon the spinach-feta mixture into the pocket of each pork chop. Don’t rush this step—make sure each chop is stuffed generously for that flavor explosion later.
Step 5: Preheat the Grill
Prepare your grill. Aim for medium-high heat. A hot grill will create those beautiful sear marks and lock in the juices.
Step 6: Brush with Olive Oil
Before placing your chops on the grill, brush both sides with extra-virgin olive oil. This adds flavor and helps prevent sticking to the grill.
Step 7: Grill the Pork Chops
Place the stuffed pork chops on the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Each flip offers a chance for that lovely char while keeping the filling warm and gooey.
Step 8: Let Them Rest
Once done, remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that every bite is moist.
Step 9: Serve It Up
Slice the pork chops and serve them warm. Pair with your favorite sides, and don’t forget to take a moment to admire your work!
Recipe Notes
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops provide more flavor and moisture. They also have a nice balance of fat which helps keep the meat juicy during cooking. If you prefer boneless, that works; just adjust cooking time.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is essential for this recipe. It wilts perfectly and brings a bright flavor. Frozen spinach won’t have the same texture, so skip that option.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a tangy creaminess. If you’re not a fan, you could swap it for goat cheese, which has a similar texture but a different flavor profile.
Garlic: Fresh is best! Minced garlic gives the filling a great depth. You could also roast it first for a sweeter, more mellow flavor.
Smoked Paprika: This spice is a game changer. It adds a subtle smokiness. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works but will lack that depth.
Recipe Variations
- Add Herbs: Feel free to add chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley to your filling for an extra flavor boost.
- Change Up the Cheese: Instead of feta, try mozzarella or a sharp cheddar for a creamier inside.
- Veggies Galore: Toss in sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean twist.
- Spice It Up: For a kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
- Make a Sauce: Drizzle a lemon-garlic sauce over the grilled chops for brightness. The tang complements the rich pork beautifully.
- Different Protein: If pork isn’t your thing, this filling could work wonderfully in chicken breasts as well.
Conclusion
In the end, grilled stuffed pork chops are not just a meal; they’re a celebration of flavor, nutrition, and the joy of cooking. Whether you’re having a feast with friends or an intimate dinner at home, this dish fits the bill perfectly. You’ll impress everyone at the table, and maybe even have them begging for seconds. You won’t just fill bellies; you’ll fill hearts with the warmth and love that comes from sharing homemade meals.
So fire up that grill and get ready to enjoy an unforgettable culinary adventure that turns dinner time into an extraordinary experience. Trust me—once you try it, you’ll understand why this recipe can become a staple in your meal rotation. Now, go ahead—get cooking!
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Grilled Stuffed Pork Chops Recipe – Comfort Food Meals
Description
Grilled stuffed pork chops are not just a feast for the eyes; they are a culinary delight full of flavor and versatility. So, what to serve alongside this mouthwatering dish? You might consider a light, refreshing salad, perhaps a vibrant Greek salad loaded with ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and Kalamata olives. A side of roasted seasonal vegetables, seasoned with a hint of garlic and thyme, adds an earthy touch that complements the savory pork. If you're in the mood for something comforting, creamy mashed potatoes or even a fluffy quinoa pilaf can balance the richness of the dish.
Now, let’s dive into why this grilled stuffed pork chop recipe deserves a spot on your dinner table. This juicy creation is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. With flavorful fillings that poke through tender, grilled pork, each bite is full of warmth and satisfaction. It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Who doesn’t love the charm of grilling? The smoky goodness envelops the pork, while the stuffing, packed with fresh ingredients, gives every bite excitement. If you haven't tried this yet, you're missing out on a fabulous combination of textures and tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
-
First, gather all your ingredients. You want everything at the ready. Chop your spinach finely and mince the garlic. Measure out your spices. This makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
-
In a bowl, combine the fresh spinach, crumbled feta, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix everything until it's well combined—trust me, the aroma of garlic and feta will have your taste buds dancing.
Step 3: Butterfly the Pork Chops
-
Take your pork chops and make a cut down the side, being careful not to cut all the way through. You’re looking for a “pocket” to fill with your delightful spinach mixture. This adds flavor and tenderness to the pork.
Step 4: Stuff the Pork Chops
-
Spoon the spinach-feta mixture into the pocket of each pork chop. Don’t rush this step—make sure each chop is stuffed generously for that flavor explosion later.
Step 5: Preheat the Grill
-
Prepare your grill. Aim for medium-high heat. A hot grill will create those beautiful sear marks and lock in the juices.
Step 6: Brush with Olive Oil
-
Before placing your chops on the grill, brush both sides with extra-virgin olive oil. This adds flavor and helps prevent sticking to the grill.
Step 7: Grill the Pork Chops
-
Place the stuffed pork chops on the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Each flip offers a chance for that lovely char while keeping the filling warm and gooey.
Step 8: Let Them Rest
-
Once done, remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that every bite is moist.
Step 9: Serve It Up
-
Slice the pork chops and serve them warm. Pair with your favorite sides, and don’t forget to take a moment to admire your work!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 437kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 27.3g42%
- Saturated Fat 9.1g46%
- Trans Fat 0.2g
- Cholesterol 153mg51%
- Sodium 968mg41%
- Total Carbohydrate 2g1%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 1g
- Protein 44g88%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops provide more flavor and moisture. They also have a nice balance of fat which helps keep the meat juicy during cooking. If you prefer boneless, that works; just adjust cooking time.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is essential for this recipe. It wilts perfectly and brings a bright flavor. Frozen spinach won’t have the same texture, so skip that option.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a tangy creaminess. If you're not a fan, you could swap it for goat cheese, which has a similar texture but a different flavor profile.
Garlic: Fresh is best! Minced garlic gives the filling a great depth. You could also roast it first for a sweeter, more mellow flavor.
Smoked Paprika: This spice is a game changer. It adds a subtle smokiness. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works but will lack that depth.
