Cacciatore Pork Chops
Cacciatore Pork Chops deliver tender, flavorful pork cooked in a savory tomato sauce with onions and Italian-inspired seasonings. Perfect for a hearty family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish combines rich flavors with simple prep, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the pork chops in a frying pan with garlic seasoning or salt and pepper.
- Place the browned pork chops in a flat 9 x 14-inch oblong shallow baking dish.
- Mix the canned tomatoes and spaghetti sauce mix together.
- Pour the tomato mixture over the pork chops.
- Place sliced onions on top of the pork chops and sauce.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 50 minutes to 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in Italian herbs or garlic before browning. If you don't have spaghetti sauce mix, a blend of dried oregano, basil, and a pinch of sugar can serve as a substitute. Ensure the pork chops are well-seared for enhanced taste and texture. This dish is versatile; feel free to add bell peppers or mushrooms for variety.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cacciatore Pork Chops over a bed of pasta, such as Fettuccine, or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A fresh green salad can complement the meal nicely. For a heartier option, pair with roasted vegetables or garlic mashed potatoes for a satisfying dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the pork chops in a baking dish with a splash of water or broth, cover with foil, and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through. This helps maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cacciatore Pork Chops contains roughly 299 calories, with 18g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. At about 299 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 bone-in pork chops for this recipe?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops will add extra flavor and moisture to the dish. Just be aware that they may require a few additional minutes of cooking time. Make sure to check the internal temperature to reach at least 145°F for safe consumption.
What can I substitute for canned tomatoes?
If you don't have canned tomatoes, you can use fresh tomatoes. About 4-5 medium ripe tomatoes, diced, will work well. Alternatively, crushed or diced tomatoes in a jar can also be used, but adjust the seasoning as jarred sauces may contain added flavors.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day ahead. Brown the pork chops and layer them in the baking dish with the sauce and onions, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to cook, simply bake straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
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).