Apple and Bacon Stuffed Pork Chops
Imagine biting into a perfectly golden pork chop to discover a mouthwatering filling of sweet apples, crispy bacon, and savory herbs! These Apple and Bacon Stuffed Pork Chops are the ultimate comfort food that looks fancy but comes together easily. If you’re searching for pork chop recipes for dinner that wow your family, you’ve just found your new favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Apple and Bacon Stuffed Pork Chops Recipe
The combination of sweet and savory is absolutely irresistible! Crispy bacon and tender apples create the perfect filling that keeps these chops incredibly moist and flavorful.
These stuffed beauties are surprisingly simple to make, even if you’ve never stuffed a pork chop before. The pocket-cutting technique is easy to master, and the results look restaurant-worthy every single time.
Whether you prefer pork chop recipes baked or pork chop recipes skillet, this recipe adapts beautifully. The stuffing stays tucked inside while the outside develops a gorgeous golden crust that’s simply divine!
Apple and Bacon Stuffed Pork Chops Ingredients
For the Stuffing:
- 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 medium apple, diced small
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 thick-cut boneless pork chops, about 1.5 inches thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper
How to Make Apple and Bacon Stuffed Pork Chops
- Prepare the stuffing: Cook bacon until crispy, then crumble. Sauté diced apple in butter for 3 minutes until slightly softened. Mix apple, bacon, breadcrumbs, cheese, and sage in a bowl.
- Create the pocket: Using a sharp knife, cut a horizontal slit into the side of each pork chop, creating a deep pocket without cutting all the way through.
- Stuff the chops: Generously fill each pocket with the apple-bacon mixture. Use toothpicks to secure the opening if needed.
- Season the outside: Rub chops with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Sear and bake: Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chops for 3 minutes per side, then transfer to a 375°F oven for 20-25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Rest and serve: Let chops rest for 5 minutes before removing toothpicks and serving.
Tips for the Best Apple and Bacon Stuffed Pork Chops
Choose thick-cut chops! You need at least 1.5-inch thickness to create a proper pocket for stuffing. Thin chops won’t work well for this recipe.
Use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape during cooking and provide the perfect sweet-tart balance against the salty bacon.
Don’t overstuff! While it’s tempting to pack in lots of filling, leaving a little room prevents it from bursting out during cooking.
A meat thermometer is your best friend here. Because the chops are thick and stuffed, visual cues aren’t reliable. Always aim for 145°F internally.
For pork chop recipes boneless variations, these work perfectly! Boneless chops are actually easier to stuff than bone-in cuts.
Apple and Bacon Stuffed Pork Chops Variations
Ready to get creative? Try these delicious twists!
Blue Apron Pork Chop Gourmet Style: Elevate this dish by adding dried cranberries and toasted pecans to the stuffing. Finish with a balsamic glaze drizzled over the top for an elegant presentation that rivals any blue apron pork chop recipe!
Crock Pot Version: For pork chop recipes crock pot method, stuff and sear chops first, then cook on low for 3-4 hours. They’ll be incredibly tender with pork chop recipes slow cooker convenience!
Air Fryer Quick Method: These work as pork chop recipes air fryer too! Cook stuffed chops at 380°F for 18-20 minutes, flipping once halfway through for crispy perfection.
Instant Pot Option: Try pork chop recipes instant pot by pressure cooking for 10 minutes with a quick release. Add a cup of apple cider for extra moisture.
Healthy Makeover: Make these pork chop recipes healthy by using turkey bacon, whole wheat breadcrumbs, and reducing cheese to 2 tablespoons.
Grilled Version: For pork chop recipes grilled, secure stuffing well with toothpicks and cook over medium indirect heat for 25-30 minutes.
What to Serve with Apple and Bacon Stuffed Pork Chops
These hearty stuffed chops pair beautifully with classic autumn sides!
Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic mashed cauliflower are perfect for soaking up any delicious juices. Roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans add a nice vegetable balance.
A crisp arugula salad with apple cider vinaigrette complements the sweet-savory flavors wonderfully. Sweet potato wedges or butternut squash also make excellent accompaniments.
For a complete feast, serve with warm dinner rolls and cranberry sauce on the side!
Apple and Bacon Stuffed Pork Chops FAQs
Can a diabetic eat pork chops? Absolutely! Pork chops are an excellent choice for diabetics as they’re high in protein and contain no carbohydrates. They help maintain stable blood sugar levels. For this stuffed version, diabetics can reduce the apple amount or use sugar-free breadcrumbs to lower the carb content while still enjoying amazing flavor.
Can I prepare these ahead of time? Yes! Stuff the pork chops up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate covered. When ready to cook, let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes, then follow the pork chop recipes in oven instructions as written. This makes them perfect for entertaining!
What if my chops aren’t thick enough to stuff? No problem! Use pork chop recipes easy method instead: butterfly thin chops, place stuffing on one half, fold over, and secure with toothpicks. They’ll still be delicious as pork chop recipes boneless alternatives!
Final Thoughts on Apple and Bacon Stuffed Pork Chops
These Apple and Bacon Stuffed Pork Chops prove that weeknight dinners can be special! The sweet apple and salty bacon combination creates pure magic, while the impressive presentation makes everyone feel celebrated.
Whether you’re new to pork chop recipes or a seasoned pro, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with easy home cooking. So grab those thick chops and let’s create something absolutely delicious tonight!
Apple and Bacon Stuffed Pork Chops
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain, reserving 1 tablespoon bacon fat.
- Sauté onion in reserved bacon fat until translucent. Add diced apple and cook until slightly softened. Remove from heat.
- Combine bacon, apple mixture, breadcrumbs, cheese, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Cut a pocket into each pork chop. Fill with stuffing mixture and secure with toothpicks if needed. Season outside with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet. Sear pork chops for 3 minutes per side until golden.
- Transfer skillet to a 375°F oven and bake for 15–18 minutes until pork reaches 145°F internally.
- Let pork chops rest for 5 minutes before removing toothpicks and serving.