Pork Chops Cacciatore
Pork Chops Cacciatore features tender pork chops simmered in a flavorful tomato and spice sauce, topped with onions and green peppers, perfect for hearty, family-friendly dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim fat from pork chops.
- Heat fat in a skillet; when about 1 tablespoon of fat has melted, remove trimmings.
- Brown the pork chops in the skillet, then season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and a dash of pepper.
- Place the browned chops in an 11 1/2 x 7 1/2 x 1 1/2-inch baking dish.
- Top each chop with a thin onion slice.
- In a bowl, combine the spaghetti sauce mix, canned tomatoes, and brown sugar; pour this mixture over the chops.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake in a moderate oven (350°F) for 1 hour.
- Uncover the dish and top each chop with a green pepper ring.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes.
- Serve the pork chops hot with cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in olive oil, garlic, and herbs before cooking. If you don’t have spaghetti sauce mix, you can use Italian seasoning and a bit of sugar for a similar taste. Additionally, adding mushrooms or sliced olives can enhance the dish. This recipe can also be adapted with chicken for a different protein option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pork chops over a bed of cooked rice or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables can complement the meal nicely. For an Italian twist, consider pairing it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh Caprese salad. This dish pairs beautifully with Meat Spaghetti Sauce(A Recipe To Enjoy From The Kitchen Of Sarah Surina.).
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 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 retain moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork Chops Cacciatore contains roughly 482 calories, with 22g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (44% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1624mg per serving (71% 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 boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used instead of bone-in chops. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as boneless chops may cook faster. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption.
Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pork chops with the sauce mixture and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap to keep it fresh. When ready to cook, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Can I substitute the canned tomatoes with fresh ones?
Yes, you can substitute fresh tomatoes for the canned ones. Use about 4-5 medium-sized tomatoes, diced. Just be sure to remove the skins for a smoother texture, and you may need to adjust cooking time slightly as fresh tomatoes may release more liquid.
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).