Apple-Raisin Stuffed Chops
Juicy pork chops stuffed with a sweet apple and raisin filling, seasoned with sage, perfect for hearty family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut pockets in the pork chops along the bone.
- Pour milk over bread crumbs to soften them.
- Stir in finely chopped peeled apples, raisins, salt, sage, and melted butter into the bread crumbs.
- Stuff each chop with about 1/4 cup of the filling.
- Brown the stuffed chops in shortening or oil.
- Pour off the oil when browned.
- Season with pepper and salt.
- Cover tightly and simmer for 45 minutes to an hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using different types of apples, such as Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness. If you don't have bread crumbs, crushed crackers or stale bread can work as alternatives. To enhance the dish, try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the filling for a warm spice note. Ensure the pork chops are not overcooked to maintain juiciness, and remember that resting the chops before serving allows the juices to redistribute.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the apple-raisin stuffed chops alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. They also pair beautifully with rice or mashed potatoes, allowing you to soak up the delicious juices. For a comforting side, consider serving with Boston Baked Corn, which complements the sweet and savory flavors of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chops in a baking dish and cover with foil; then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps retain moisture and keeps the stuffing flavorful.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apple-Raisin Stuffed Chops contains roughly 387 calories, with 5g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (94% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used in this recipe. Just ensure they are thick enough to hold the stuffing. Adjust the cooking time slightly as boneless chops may cook faster than bone-in chops, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
What type of apples work best for this recipe?
For best results, use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp which hold their shape well during cooking. These apples provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the raisins and enhance the overall flavor of the stuffing.
Can I prepare the stuffing in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before using it to stuff the chops. This can save time on the day you plan to cook the meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).