Cheesy Stuffed Pork Chops Recipe – Juicy, Golden & Oven-Baked

Few dinners strike the balance between cozy and impressive like Cheesy Stuffed Pork Chops.
Golden on the outside, juicy on the inside, and filled with a molten cheese and herb mixture, this dish transforms a humble cut of meat into a restaurant-worthy centerpiece.

This oven-baked version skips the mess of frying while locking in every bit of moisture. The result?
A tender pork chop with a golden crust and creamy, savory filling that melts beautifully with every bite.

Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special family meal, these pork chops deliver rich flavor, simple preparation, and ultimate satisfaction.

The Secret to Juicy Pork Chops

Stuffing pork chops might sound fancy, but the secret lies in a few simple tricks:

A quick sear or high-heat roast keeps the juices sealed inside.
A cheesy spinach or garlic-herb filling adds richness and moisture.
Baking at the right temperature prevents overcooking while melting the cheese to perfection.

By combining technique with a flavorful filling, these chops turn into a one-pan comfort classic that feels anything but ordinary.

Ingredients List

Serves 4

For the Pork Chops:

4 thick-cut boneless pork chops (1 to 1 ½ inches thick)
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Cheesy Filling:

½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup cream cheese, softened
½ cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
¼ teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan (optional, for extra flavor)

For Garnish:

Fresh parsley, chopped
Extra Parmesan or melted butter, optional for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Pat pork chops dry with paper towels, then use a sharp knife to carefully cut a pocket in the side of each chop.
Be gentle — avoid slicing all the way through.

Brush the chops with olive oil and season both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

Step 2: Make the Cheesy Filling

In a bowl, mix together mozzarella, cheddar, cream cheese, spinach, garlic, onion powder, and Parmesan.
Stir until smooth and well combined.
The mixture should be creamy and slightly thick for easy stuffing.

Step 3: Stuff the Pork Chops

Using a spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each pork chop pocket with the cheese mixture.
Press gently to distribute evenly without overstuffing.
Use toothpicks to secure the opening if needed.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden & Juicy

Place the stuffed chops in a greased baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

For extra color, switch to broil for the last 2–3 minutes until the tops turn golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Rest & Serve

Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
This helps the juices settle back into the meat.

Garnish with chopped parsley or drizzle with melted butter for a glossy finish.
Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad for a balanced plate.

Flavor Variations

Garlic Mushroom: Add sautéed mushrooms to the cheese filling for umami depth.
Jalapeño Popper Style: Mix in diced jalapeños and extra cheddar for a spicy kick.
Mediterranean: Swap cheddar for feta and add sun-dried tomatoes and basil.
Bacon Lover’s Twist: Wrap each stuffed chop in bacon before baking for double flavor.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10–12 minutes, or microwave gently in 30-second bursts.
Freezing Tip: Freeze unbaked, stuffed chops for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Overcooking the chops: Use a thermometer — juicy perfection happens at 145°F.
Overstuffing: Too much filling can burst the chop; keep portions even.
Skipping the rest time: Letting the meat rest prevents dry edges.
Using thin chops: Thick-cut pork chops hold filling best and stay moist.

Why This Recipe Works

Balanced texture: crisp outside, creamy center
Classic comfort flavor with a gourmet touch
Oven-baked for less mess and perfect results
Customizable fillings for endless variations
Easy enough for weeknights, elegant enough for guests

Final Thoughts

These Cheesy Stuffed Pork Chops bring together everything you love about comfort food — juicy meat, melty cheese, and a golden baked crust.
They’re hearty, family-friendly, and simple to make, proving that homemade dinners can taste just as indulgent as restaurant favorites.

Serve them for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special Sunday meal — either way, every forkful delivers rich, cheesy satisfaction.

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