Pork Chops With Spaghetti
Hearty pork chops baked with spaghetti and tomato soup, topped with cheese. A comforting, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners and those craving classic Italian-American flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the pork chops well in hot shortening.
- Remove pork chops and cook the chopped onion until tender.
- Add cooked spaghetti and salt; pour tomato soup with an equal amount of water over the spaghetti.
- Place the pork chops over the top of the spaghetti mixture.
- Cover closely and let simmer about 1 hour.
- Before serving, sprinkle grated cheese over the top.
Tips & Substitutions
For even more flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in your favorite spices or sauces before browning them. You can substitute the tomato soup with homemade marinara for a fresher taste. If you're short on time, pre-cooked spaghetti can be used, but ensure it's not overcooked in the final dish. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover spaghetti from other meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or a side of buttery corn would complement the flavors nicely. You might also consider pairing it with a light red wine, which enhances the richness of the pork. This recipe can serve as an 'Extra-Fancy Main Dish' for family gatherings or special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork chops and spaghetti mixture in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Cover and heat until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork Chops With Spaghetti contains roughly 448 calories, with 14g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (96% of the Daily Value), protein (27% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 928mg per serving (40% 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 meat instead of pork chops?
Yes, you can substitute pork chops with chicken breasts or even bone-in chicken thighs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken may require less time to cook through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pork chops and spaghetti mixture a day in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate after assembly, then reheat thoroughly before serving. This can save time on busy weeknights or special occasions.
What can I serve as a side dish?
A simple side salad with a vinaigrette complements the richness of the pork chops nicely. You could also serve roasted vegetables or a classic coleslaw for a crunchy texture. For a comforting option, consider serving mashed potatoes alongside this hearty dish.
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).