Juicy Pork Chops Stuffed with Smoked Gouda and Bacon Recipe

Crispy, golden pork chops stuffed with smoked gouda and bacon offer a mouthwatering twist on classic dinner fare.

Layers of rich, melted cheese and smoky bacon create an irresistible filling that bursts with flavor.

Juicy meat combines perfectly with the creamy, salty interior, promising a truly memorable meal.

Home cooks can easily master this impressive dish that looks complex but comes together quickly.

Each bite delivers a perfect balance of textures and robust flavors that will surprise everyone at the table.

Savory and indulgent, these stuffed pork chops guarantee clean plates and happy smiles around your dining space.

You won’t believe how simple it is to create such a restaurant-worthy entrée that feels like a gourmet experience.

Why These Pork Chops Feel Extra Fancy

• Savor Rich Flavor Combinations: Smoked Gouda and crispy bacon create an incredible taste explosion inside tender pork chops, delivering gourmet-style dining right at home.
• Master Simple Culinary Technique: Stuffing meat requires minimal skill but produces impressive results that make you feel like a professional chef without complicated preparation steps.
• Quick Weeknight Wonder: From skillet to oven, this recipe transforms ordinary pork chops into a restaurant-quality meal in under an hour, perfect for busy families seeking delicious dinner options.
• Protein-Packed Indulgence: Packed with protein and decadent cheese, these stuffed pork chops offer a satisfying meal that balances nutrition with incredible taste sensations.

The Stuffing Ingredients That Set It Apart

• Pork Chops: A tender and juicy cut of meat that serves as the main protein for this delicious stuffed recipe.

• Smoked Gouda Cheese: A rich and smoky cheese that adds deep flavor and creamy texture to the pork chops.
• Bacon: A savory and crispy ingredient that provides a salty and smoky dimension to the stuffing.

• Parsley, Black Pepper, Salt: Herbs and seasonings that enhance the overall flavor profile and add depth to the pork chops.

• Olive Oil: A healthy oil used to sear the pork chops and create a golden brown exterior.

Directions for a Juicy, Flavor-Packed Result

Step 1: Prepare Cheesy Bacon Filling

Combine smoked Gouda, crispy bacon bits, chopped fresh parsley, and a pinch of black pepper in a mixing bowl.

Blend the ingredients thoroughly to create a delicious stuffing mixture.

Step 2: Create Pork Chop Pockets

Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a deep pocket into the side of each pork chop.

Be gentle to keep the pocket opening small and prevent the filling from spilling out.

Step 3: Stuff the Pork Chops

Generously fill each pork chop pocket with the Gouda and bacon mixture.

Use your fingers to push the filling deep into the pocket, ensuring even distribution.

Step 4: Secure the Stuffing

If needed, use toothpicks to close the pocket opening and keep the filling inside during cooking.

Step 5: Season the Meat

Sprinkle salt and a dash of black pepper over both sides of the stuffed pork chops, enhancing their natural flavor.

Step 6: Sear to Golden Perfection

Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.

Carefully place the pork chops in the hot skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms.

Step 7: Finish in the Oven

Transfer the entire skillet to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C).

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes.

This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful meal.

Remove toothpicks before serving.

Bacon & Cheese Tips You’ll Be Glad to Know

• Carefully slice horizontally through the thick side of the pork chop, creating a deep pocket without cutting all the way through to ensure a perfect stuffing seal.
• Finely chop bacon and grate Gouda to create an even mixture that distributes flavors uniformly throughout the stuffing.
• Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature, as overcooking can dry out the pork chops and ruin the tender texture.
• Allow pork chops to rest after cooking to help redistribute juices, keeping the meat moist and preventing dry edges.
• Choose a heavy, oven-safe skillet that conducts heat evenly and can transition smoothly from stovetop to oven for consistent cooking.

Filling & Flavor Adjustments You Can Make

• Low-Carb Version: Replace breadcrumbs or herbs with finely chopped cauliflower rice and use turkey bacon for a lighter protein option.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Swap Gouda with dairy-free smoked cheese or nutritional yeast for a similar smoky flavor profile.
• Herb-Infused Option: Replace parsley with fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage to create a different aromatic herb combination.
• Mediterranean Style: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese instead of Gouda and bacon for a Mediterranean-inspired stuffing.

Plating Tips for an Elegant Touch

• Cheese and Charcuterie Companion: Serve alongside a rustic wooden board with extra sliced smoked Gouda, crispy bacon bits, and fresh parsley sprigs for a stunning presentation.
• Hearty Side Pairing: Complement the rich pork chops with roasted garlic mashed potatoes or a crisp apple and walnut salad to balance the smoky, creamy flavors.
• Wine and Dine Delight: Pour a medium-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or a crisp Chardonnay to enhance the savory notes of the Gouda and bacon-stuffed pork chops.
• Fresh Herb Finale: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives just before serving to add a bright, green touch and a subtle herbal freshness to the dish.

Storing Stuffed Pork Chops the Smartly

• Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain moisture and prevent bacterial growth.
• Wrap individual pork chops in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label the bag with the date to track freshness.
• Preheat oven to 350F. Place pork chops in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 10-15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165F.
• Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, checking temperature between each interval. Add a splash of chicken broth to prevent dryness and maintain juiciness.

FAQs

• How do I know when the pork chops are fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145F (63C). This ensures the pork is safe to eat and remains juicy.

• Can I prepare the stuffed pork chops ahead of time?

Yes, you can stuff the pork chops and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before searing.

• What type of bacon works best for this recipe?

Thick-cut, smoky bacon provides the best flavor and texture. Crisp the bacon slightly before mixing with the Gouda for more intense taste.

Jam-packed Pork Chops Stuffed with Smoked Gouda and Bacon Recipe

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4.9 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 2 1x

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Description

Succulent Pork Chops Stuffed with Smoked Gouda and Bacon invite you on a savory culinary journey through rich, smoky flavors. Crispy bacon and melted cheese create an irresistible combination that promises to elevate your dinner experience.

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Ingredients

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Proteins:

• 2 ounces (56 grams) smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 (2 1/4 inch thick) center-cut, bone-in pork chops

Herbs and Seasonings:

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

Cooking Ingredient:

• 1 teaspoon olive oil

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Instructions

1. Carefully slice a pocket into each pork chop, ensuring not to cut through the entire thickness.
2. Create a rich filling by combining smoked Gouda, crispy bacon bits, finely chopped parsley, and a pinch of black pepper.
3. Generously stuff the cheese and bacon mixture into the pork chop pockets, pressing gently to secure the filling.
4. Use toothpicks to close the pockets if needed, preventing the stuffing from falling out during cooking.
5. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C) to prepare for roasting.
6. Season the exterior of the pork chops with salt and a light dusting of black pepper.
7. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers and is nearly smoking.
8. Sear the stuffed pork chops for 2-3 minutes on each side, developing a golden-brown crust that seals in moisture.
9. Transfer the skillet directly into the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145F (63C).
10. Remove from the oven and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute and ensure maximum tenderness.

Notes

• Create a precise pocket in the pork chop by using a sharp knife, cutting horizontally without slicing completely through the meat to ensure even stuffing distribution.
• Choose thick-cut pork chops (at least 1-inch thick) to prevent overcooking and maintain juicy, tender meat while allowing space for the delicious Gouda and bacon filling.
• Pat the pork chops dry before seasoning to help achieve a perfect golden-brown sear and enhance the meat’s natural flavors without excess moisture.
• For a lighter version, substitute regular bacon with turkey bacon and use reduced-fat Gouda to lower the overall calorie and fat content while maintaining a rich, smoky taste.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2
• Calories: 625 kcal
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 990 mg
• Fat: 48 g
• Saturated Fat: 17 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 27 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 1 g
• Fiber: 0.3 g
• Protein: 43 g
• Cholesterol: 140 mg