Pork Chops Monterey
A hearty dish featuring tender pork chops simmered with rice, tomatoes, and vegetables, topped with melted Monterey Jack cheese, ideal for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown pork chops in vegetable oil. Remove chops and set aside.
- Saute onion and green pepper in the same skillet.
- Stir in tomatoes, water, rice, salt, and pepper; add the pork chops back into the skillet.
- Cover and simmer for 30 minutes or until the water is absorbed, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the pork chops and stir 1 cup of cheese into the rice mixture.
- Top the rice with the pork chops and sprinkle with the remaining cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in a mixture of garlic and herbs before browning. If you don't have Monterey Jack cheese, feel free to substitute with cheddar or a blend of your favorite melting cheeses. To enhance the dish, you can add some diced tomatoes with green chilies for a bit of heat, which pairs beautifully with other pork recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pork Chops Monterey with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs nicely with crusty bread or a side of your favorite macaroni and tomato dish for a comforting combination. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Pork Chops Monterey can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the dish in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out. Ensure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork Chops Monterey contains roughly 360 calories, with 21g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (42% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1647mg per serving (72% 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. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless chops typically cook faster. Ensure they are cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F for optimal tenderness.
What type of rice is best for this dish?
Long-grain white rice works best as it absorbs the flavors well and maintains a nice texture. You can also use brown rice, but be mindful that it will require a longer cooking time and additional water.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of simmering, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a little more water if necessary, to ensure everything heats evenly.
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).