Pork Chop Pyramids

Prep: 15 min Cook: 150 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Pork Chop Pyramids feature tender pork chops topped with vegetables and rice, simmered in a savory tomato sauce for a hearty, comforting meal perfect for family dinners.

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Ingredients

  • 4 pork chops (1/2 to 1-inch thick)
  • 3 large onions, sliced
  • 2 cans tomato sauce
  • 1 green pepper, sliced
  • 1 small box Minute rice
  • salt
  • pepper

Instructions

  1. Flour the pork chops and lightly brown them in a skillet.
  2. Sauté sliced onions until tender.
  3. Prepare rice according to box directions.
  4. Place the pork chops in an electric skillet or Dutch oven.
  5. Top the chops with green pepper slices, sautéed onions, and minced garlic, then season to taste.
  6. Pile the cooked rice on top of the chops in pyramids.
  7. Dilute the tomato sauce with an equal part of water and pour around the chops.
  8. Simmer the dish slowly for 2 to 3 hours, basting occasionally.

Tips & Substitutions

For extra flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs a few hours before cooking. If you don't have Minute rice, you can substitute with regular rice, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the overall taste. For a twist, try using sliced mushrooms or other vegetables with your sautéed onions.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Pork Chop Pyramids with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. This dish pairs beautifully with a crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a heartier option, consider serving with mashed potatoes or a baked potato, adding a comforting touch to the meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork chops and rice in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to retain moisture. Cover and warm gently until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Pork Chop Pyramids contains roughly 822 calories, with 22g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (44% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2731mg per serving (119% of the Daily Value).

822 kcal 41% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 22.2g 44% DV
Total Fat 33.8g 43% DV
Carbs 111.5g 41% DV
Fiber 6.3g 23% DV
Sugar 11.2g 22% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2730.5mg 100% DV
Potassium 698.3mg 15% DV
Cholesterol 18.3mg 6% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1.8mcg
Vitamin C 27.7mg 31% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 206.4mg 16% DV
Iron 4.7mg 26% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber

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 for this recipe?

Yes, boneless pork chops can be used in place of bone-in chops. Just be sure to monitor the cooking time, as boneless cuts may cook faster than bone-in. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for the best results.

What can I substitute for tomato sauce?

If you don't have tomato sauce on hand, crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute. You may want to add a little extra seasoning, like Italian herbs or garlic powder, to enhance the flavor.

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! To add some heat, consider incorporating sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes along with the green peppers. You can also serve the dish with hot sauce on the side for those who prefer an extra kick.

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).

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