Pork Chops with Apples and Stuffing

There’s no shortage of delicious ways to enjoy the sweet-and-savory pairing of pork and apples. From pork chops filled with apple stuffing to pan-seared pork chops topped with cinnamon apples, the combo is a hit. This recipe for pork chops with apples and stuffing is one of the easiest takes on this combination, requiring just four ingredients and minimal prep, thanks to convenient apple pie filling and stuffing mix.

Simply brown boneless pork chops on the stovetop, layer them over a spiced apple filling, top them with seasoned stuffing, and bake the dish until golden and bubbly. The result is a cozy, satisfying meal that delivers home-cooked flavor without any fuss.

Ingredients for Pork Chop with Apples and Stuffing

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• Pork chops: This recipe calls for boneless pork chops, which are a good source of lean protein and are quick-cooking. You can prepare this dish with bone-in chops for juicier meat, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time. See below for tips on making the swap.
• Stuffing mix: Savory seasoned stuffing delivers heartiness and herbal notes that complement the tender pork and sweet apples. Use your favorite boxed stuffing mix for convenience, or substitute homemade or leftover stuffing to control the ingredients and seasoning.
• Apple pie filling: If you can’t find cinnamon-spiced apple pie filling, simply sprinkle ground cinnamon over the apples to taste. If you prefer not to use canned or jarred pie filling, swap in homemade apple pie filling.
• Parsley: Pork chops with apples and stuffing is an undeniably delicious combination, but it’s heavy on brown tones. Finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pretty pop of color and a hint of freshness.

Directions

Step 1: Brown the pork chops

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Heat 1 tablespoon canola oil in a large skillet set over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for two to three minutes or until the bottom is browned. Flip the chops and sear until the second side is golden brown.

Step 2: Layer the pork chops with the pie filling and stuffing

Prepare the stuffing according to the package directions. Spread the apple pie filling in the bottom of a greased 13×9-inch baking dish. Arrange the pork chops on top of the pie filling, then spoon the stuffing over each chop.

Step 3: Bake the pork chops

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer inserted in the center of a pork chop reads 145°. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve.

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Recipe Variations

• Add sliced onions: Layer thinly sliced sweet yellow onions over the apple filling to balance the sweetness and add a soft, caramelized texture.
• Try a southern twist: Use a package of cornbread stuffing mix or homemade cornbread dressing for a sweeter flavor.
• Jazz up the stuffing: Make stuffing mix taste homemade with fresh mix-ins. Add toasted walnuts or pecans, raisins, dried cranberries, or sauteed celery and mushrooms.
• Use fresh apples: For a less sweet, more natural option, substitute freshly sauteed apples with cinnamon for the apple pie filling. Add a few splashes of apple cider or broth to the baking dish to ensure the apples don’t dry out.
• Make it extra saucy: Layer unsweetened, chunky applesauce with the apple pie filling for more prominent apple flavor and extra moisture—perfect if your pie filling is thicker.

How to Store Pork Chops with Apples and Stuffing

Let the baked pork chops cool to room temperature, then cover the baking dish with storage wrap or transfer the chops, apples and stuffing to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Can you freeze pork chops with apples and stuffing?

Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to two months. After baking, let the dish cool, wrap it tightly and pop it in the freezer. The pork chops and apples should freeze and thaw well, but the stuffing will probably be softer after reheating. Before reheating, thaw the pork chops with apples and stuffing overnight in the fridge.

Can you make pork chops with apples and stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, this is a great recipe to assemble in advance and bake when needed. Brown the pork chops and layer them with the apple pie filling and stuffing in a baking dish. Tightly cover the dish and store it in the fridge up to one day ahead of time. When ready to bake, let the dish sit on the counter while the oven preheats, then bake as directed.

How do you reheat pork chops with apples and stuffing?

To reheat, place the pork chops, apples and stuffing in an oven-safe pan with a few splashes of water or broth to keep the meat and stuffing from drying out. Cover the pan with foil and bake in a 350° oven for 15 to 20 minutes until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Pork Chops with Apples and Stuffing Tips

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Can you make this recipe with bone-in pork chops?

For juicier, more flavorful meat, you can use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless chops. They take longer to cook, maybe closer to an hour in the oven. After removing the foil, increase the cooking time by 10 to 20 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer inserted near the bone reads 145°.

Can you use homemade pie filling and stuffing?

Yes! You can make this baked pork chop dish with homemade apple pie filling and/or your stuffing recipe of choice, whether you prefer classic herb, sourdough or cornbread. You can also swap in fresh sauteed apples with butter and cinnamon for the apple pie filling. Preparing these elements yourself is a great way to customize the flavor and control the ingredients.

What can you serve alongside pork chops with apples and stuffing?

This dish pairs well with a green vegetable side, like steamed green beans or crispy roasted Brussels sprouts. If you prefer another starch in addition to the stuffing, try serving it with mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes and buttery dinner rolls to soak up the pan juices.