Bourbon Maple Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Pork Chops
A sophisticated dish featuring tender pork chops stuffed with a creamy cheese filling, wrapped in crispy bacon, and glazed with a rich bourbon maple sauce. The combination of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors makes this an elegant option for special dinners or holiday meals.
Equipment
- 1 Oven-safe skillet or baking dish For cooking the pork chops evenly.
- 1 Sharp Knife For cutting pockets into the pork chops.
- 1 Meat Thermometer To ensure pork reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F.
- Optional Pastry brush For applying the glaze during baking.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces Bone-in pork chops (1-inch thick) Choose chops with good marbling for juiciness.
- 8 slices Thick-cut bacon Wraps around the chops for crispiness and flavor.
- 1 cup Cream cheese (softened) Base for the stuffing.
- ½ cup Shredded cheddar cheese Adds richness to the filling.
- ¼ cup Green onions (chopped) Provides a mild onion flavor and color.
- ¼ cup Bourbon Adds depth to the glaze; choose a mid-range brand.
- ¼ cup Pure maple syrup Creates sweetness and caramelization in the glaze.
- 1 tbsp Melted butter Enhances the glaze's richness.
Seasonings
- 1 tsp Garlic powder For seasoning the pork and stuffing.
- ½ tsp Salt Adjust to taste.
- ¼ tsp Black pepper Freshly ground for better flavor.
Optional Garnishes
- 1 tbsp Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish. Optional
Instructions
Step-by-Step Recipe
Prepare the Pork Chops for Stuffing:
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Use a sharp knife to cut a pocket into the thickest part of each chop, being careful not to cut all the way through. Season both sides lightly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Make the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Stuff and Wrap the Pork Chops:
- Spoon the cheese mixture tightly into the pockets of each pork chop. Secure the opening with toothpicks if needed.
- Wrap two slices of bacon around each stuffed chop, overlapping slightly at the ends. Secure the bacon with additional toothpicks to prevent unraveling.
Craft the Bourbon Maple Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together bourbon, pure maple syrup, and melted butter until smooth. Set aside near the cooking area.
Cook the Pork Chops:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the bacon-wrapped chops in a baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
- Brush the bourbon maple glaze generously over each chop. Bake for 30–35 minutes, brushing with more glaze halfway through cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; the pork should reach 145°F (63°C).
Rest and Serve:
- Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes after baking to lock in juices and allow the glaze to set. Remove toothpicks before serving.
Garnish and Plate:
- Drizzle any remaining glaze over the chops. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for freshness and color.
Notes
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- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain moisture and crispiness.
- Glaze Adjustments: Replace half the maple syrup with honey for a subtle sweetness without overpowering the bourbon flavor.
- Side Pairings: Roasted sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad work well to balance the rich flavors of the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best temperature to cook bacon-wrapped stuffed pork chops in the oven?
- The ideal temperature is 375°F (190°C). Cook for 30–35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
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Can you suggest a simple elegant sauce to accompany bacon-wrapped pork chops?
- A bourbon maple glaze made from bourbon, pure maple syrup, and melted butter is a classic choice that enhances the dish’s flavors.
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How do you ensure bacon-wrapped pork chops stay moist when grilling?
- Start with thick, bone-in chops and cook over indirect heat first. Finish with a quick sear over direct flames to crisp the bacon while sealing in moisture.
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What are some creative side dishes to serve with maple-glazed pork chops?
- Roasted sweet potatoes, sautéed Brussels sprouts, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad provide balance and complement the dish’s richness.
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How can you incorporate honey into bacon-wrapped pork chops without overpowering the flavor?
- Replace half the maple syrup in the glaze with honey for a balanced sweetness that complements the bourbon’s depth.
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What are some tips for selecting and preparing center-cut pork chops for a bacon-wrapped recipe?
- Choose bone-in, 1-inch-thick chops with good marbling. Cut a deep pocket carefully to hold the stuffing, avoiding piercing through the meat.
Tips & Tricks
- Flavor Enhancement: Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the cheese filling for extra depth.
- Presentation: Arrange the pork chops on a platter with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for an elegant look. Use white plates to highlight the dish’s colors.
- Leftovers: Transform leftover pork chops into sandwiches by slicing them thinly and layering with greens and mustard.
Plating and Garnishing
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley or green onions over the pork chops for freshness. Drizzle extra glaze for added shine.
- Serving Style: Serve on a large platter with roasted sweet potatoes, green beans, or a mixed green salad around the chops.
- Pairings: Include creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful bourbon maple glaze.