Why BBQ Glazed Stuffed Pork Chops Are So Great

What sets these BBQ Glazed Stuffed Pork Chops apart is the combination of juicy pork, flavorful stuffing, and smoky-sweet BBQ glaze. The stuffing mixture, made with roasted garlic, fresh parsley, scallions, Parmesan cheese, and Panko breadcrumbs, adds texture and flavor to the pork chops, while the BBQ glaze brings a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes.

The boneless loin pork chops are a great choice for this recipe because they are tender and cook quickly, ensuring that the stuffing and glaze come together seamlessly. The use of Andria’s BBQ sauce adds a unique, smoky flavor that perfectly complements the rich pork and herby stuffing. The pan-frying method helps create a golden, crispy exterior, locking in all the juicy goodness inside.

How to Make BBQ Glazed Stuffed Pork Chops

This recipe comes together quickly, with just a few simple steps. Here’s how to make these delicious stuffed pork chops:

1. Prepare the Rub and Stuffing:
   In a small bowl, combine the following rub ingredients: ¼ tsp fresh grated nutmeg, ½ tsp black pepper, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp sugar, ½ tsp red pepper flakes, ½ tsp garlic powder, and ½ tsp dried oregano. This mixture will give the pork chops a flavorful crust when they are pan-fried.

   For the stuffing, combine 4-5 roasted garlic cloves, ½ cup of fresh chopped Italian parsley, 2-3 chopped scallions, ½ cup of Panko breadcrumbs, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 3 tbsp of olive oil in a bowl. Mix well until the stuffing comes together.

2. Stuff the Pork Chops:
   Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket in each pork chop (be sure not to cut all the way through). Stuff each pocket with the prepared stuffing mixture. Once filled, use toothpicks to seal the edges of the pork chops, ensuring the stuffing stays inside as it cooks.

3. Season the Chops:
   Massage the prepared rub mixture onto both sides of the stuffed pork chops. The seasoning will enhance the flavor of the pork and help create a golden crust when pan-fried.

4. Pan-Fry the Chops:
   Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the stuffed pork chops and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown. This helps to create a crispy exterior while locking in the juices inside the pork.

5. Glaze with BBQ Sauce:
   After cooking the first side, brush the pork chops with Andria’s BBQ sauce. Turn the chops over and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side, brushing with more BBQ sauce. Let them cook for an additional minute to create a nice char on the surface. Be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and that the juices run clear to ensure the pork is fully cooked.

6. Serve:
   Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute within the meat, making it even juicier. Serve with your favorite sides, like roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

The combination of the stuffing, seasoning rub, and BBQ glaze makes these pork chops flavorful and satisfying. Stuffing the pork with garlic, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs adds richness and texture, while the BBQ glaze provides a beautiful caramelized coating that complements the savory flavors of the pork.

The use of a cast-iron skillet ensures that the pork chops cook evenly and develop a perfect, golden crust. The high heat helps to lock in the juices, keeping the pork moist and tender throughout. The sweetness and tang of the BBQ sauce add an extra layer of flavor, making this dish even more irresistible.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of these BBQ Glazed Stuffed Pork Chops provides about 485 calories, with 40g of protein, making it a hearty, satisfying meal. The fat content is 21g, including 4g of saturated fat, which comes primarily from the pork and the olive oil. While the dish is relatively high in fat, it provides a good balance of protein and healthy fats, making it a filling option for a balanced meal.

The carbohydrates are quite low at 4g, mostly coming from the Panko breadcrumbs in the stuffing. With 0.1g of fiber and 2g of sugar, this dish is perfect for those following low-carb or keto diets. The sodium content is 1215mg, which is something to keep in mind if you’re watching your salt intake. However, this is typical for dishes that include store-bought BBQ sauce.

Customizing the BBQ Glazed Stuffed Pork Chops

While this recipe is delicious as written, there are several ways to customize it to suit your preferences:

• Spice it up: If you like a bit of heat, add extra red pepper flakes to the rub or use a spicier BBQ sauce for a more intense kick.

• Add veggies: You can incorporate vegetables into the stuffing, such as finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers, for added flavor and texture.

• Different cheese: While Parmesan adds a lovely sharpness, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a different taste.

• Sauce variation: You can swap Andria’s BBQ sauce for a different brand or flavor if you prefer something sweeter, smokier, or tangier.

Conclusion

BBQ Glazed Stuffed Pork Chops are a juicy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The savory stuffing, aromatic rub, and smoky BBQ glaze combine to create a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to prepare at home. Whether you’re making this for a casual dinner or a special event, these pork chops are sure to impress. Serve them with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a meal that’s both delicious and hearty.