Mozzarella Pork Chops And Spaghetti
Juicy pork chops topped with melted mozzarella, served over pasta with a flavorful tomato and Parmesan sauce, perfect for a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat butter in a skillet.
- Add pork chops and brown on both sides. Remove from skillet and keep warm.
- Mix chopped onions into the fat in the skillet and cook until tender.
- Stir occasionally.
- Add tomato sauce, spaghetti sauce mix, water, and grated Parmesan-Romano cheese to the skillet. Return pork chops to the skillet.
- Cover and cook over low heat until the meat is tender, about 45 to 55 minutes, basting occasionally and stirring in small amounts of water if needed.
- Cook thin spaghetti or rice according to package instructions.
- Place cooked pasta or rice in the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Arrange pork chops on top of the pasta or rice and pour the sauce over.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Set under a broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in Italian dressing or adding garlic to the onion mixture. If you don't have spaghetti sauce mix, you can substitute with a mix of dried oregano, basil, and a pinch of sugar. Thin spaghetti works well, but you can also use rice for a heartier option. This dish pairs beautifully with Hot Squash Casserole for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mozzarella Pork Chops and Spaghetti with a side salad for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread also complements the dish well, enhancing the Italian flavors. For a lighter option, consider pairing it with steamed vegetables or a simple vegetable side like Vegetable Cheese Squares (Cold Pizza) to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of water to keep the pork moist, and cover. Heat on medium power until warmed through, or reheat in a skillet over low heat until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mozzarella Pork Chops And Spaghetti contains roughly 451 calories, with 34g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (67% of the Daily Value), calcium (57% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 799mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
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 other types of cheese instead of mozzarella?
Yes, you can use provolone or fontina cheese as substitutes for mozzarella. Both will melt nicely and provide a different flavor profile. If you're looking for a sharper taste, consider using aged cheddar. Just be sure to adjust the amount based on your preference.
What can I use instead of pork chops?
If you want to replace pork chops, boneless chicken breasts or thighs work well. You can also try using turkey cutlets or even thick slices of eggplant for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times as needed to ensure the meat is cooked through or the eggplant is tender.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the entire dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to serve, remove the cover and bake as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes 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).