Ham and Cheese Stuffed Pork Chops

Ham and Cheese Stuffed Pork Chops are a decadent and satisfying dish that beautifully blends savory, smoky, and creamy flavors. Thick, juicy pork chops are stuffed with layers of salty ham and gooey melted cheese, then seared to golden perfection and baked until tender. The result is a main course that feels indulgent yet comforting — perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

This recipe brings together the heartiness of pork, the richness of melted cheese, and the nostalgic touch of classic ham — making every bite melt in your mouth with flavor and juiciness.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. The first cut into the pork chop reveals a molten core of melted cheese and smoky ham that oozes out — it’s pure comfort food magic! It’s also versatile enough to pair with anything — mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a crisp salad.

Another reason to adore this recipe is how forgiving it is. The stuffed pork chops stay juicy and flavorful, even for those who tend to overcook meat. And the combination of textures — crispy exterior, tender interior, and creamy filling — makes it a dish everyone falls in love with.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try because it elevates everyday pork chops into a restaurant-quality entrée with minimal effort. You don’t need fancy ingredients or culinary training to make this dish shine.

The cheesy, savory filling makes it irresistible to both kids and adults, while the juicy pork ensures you’ll never have dry chops again. It’s also an elegant dish that can easily impress guests at dinner parties.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~420 kcal per serving

Cuisine and Course

• Cuisine: American / Comfort Food
• Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops:

• 4 thick-cut pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick)
• 4 slices deli ham (thinly sliced)
• 4 slices Swiss cheese (or provolone / cheddar)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

For the Pan Sauce (optional but recommended):

• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp butter

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Butterfly the pork chops and stuff them with ham and cheese.
2. Secure the opening with toothpicks.
3. Season the outside generously with salt, pepper, and spices.
4. Sear the chops in olive oil until golden on both sides.
5. Transfer to the oven to finish cooking.
6. Optionally, make a creamy pan sauce with broth, cream, and mustard.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

• Pat pork chops dry with paper towels.
• Using a sharp knife, cut a horizontal pocket into the side of each chop (do not cut all the way through).

Step 2: Stuff the Pork Chops

• Place one slice of ham and one slice of cheese inside each pocket.
• Fold the pork over the filling and secure with toothpicks to hold everything together.

Step 3: Season the Chops

• Mix salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl.
• Rub the seasoning evenly over both sides of each pork chop.

Step 4: Sear the Pork Chops

• Heat olive oil (or butter) in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the pork chops and sear for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step 5: Bake Until Cooked Through

• Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C).
• Bake for about 10–15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Step 6: Make the Optional Sauce

• Remove pork chops and keep warm.
• Add chicken broth, cream, Dijon mustard, and butter to the skillet.
• Stir and simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

How to Serve

Serve the stuffed pork chops hot, drizzled with the creamy pan sauce (if prepared). Pair them with:

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Roasted asparagus or green beans
• Steamed rice or buttered noodles
• A crisp green salad with vinaigrette

For an elegant presentation, slice the pork chops diagonally to showcase the melted cheese inside.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use thick-cut chops to prevent the filling from leaking out.
• Seal the edges securely with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
• Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before slicing — this keeps them juicy.
• Choose melty cheeses like Swiss, provolone, or mozzarella for the best result.

Variations

• Italian Style: Use prosciutto and mozzarella with a sprinkle of Italian herbs.
• Spinach and Feta: Swap ham and cheese for spinach and feta stuffing.
• BBQ Twist: Add a spoonful of BBQ sauce inside the chop before baking.
• Mushroom Lover’s Version: Add sautéed mushrooms to the filling for earthy richness.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing (uncooked): Freeze stuffed, uncooked chops for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before cooking.
• Freezing (cooked): Store cooked chops for up to 1 month. Reheat gently in the oven to avoid drying out.

Special Equipment Needed

• Sharp paring knife (for cutting the pocket)
• Oven-safe skillet or cast iron pan
• Meat thermometer
• Toothpicks or kitchen twine

Conclusion

Ham and Cheese Stuffed Pork Chops are the definition of comfort and indulgence on a plate. Juicy, flavorful, and filled with creamy goodness, this dish is perfect for turning an ordinary dinner into something memorable. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, it’s guaranteed to impress with its mouthwatering aroma and presentation.