The Iowa pork chop is already a Midwest classic but stuff it with a warm, herbaceous apple and bread filling, and it becomes the star of your dinner table. This hearty dish blends savory, sweet, and juicy in every bite, making it a nostalgic nod to family gatherings and cozy kitchen aromas. With its golden-crusted exterior and warm stuffing spilling out slightly at the edges, these Stuffed Iowa Chops look as comforting as they taste. Ideal for a weekend family meal or a special guest dinner, they turn humble ingredients into something truly memorable. Whether you’re a pork lover or simply want to try something traditional with a twist, this dish delivers both flavor and heart.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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6 bone-in pork loin chops (1½ inches thick)
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3 tablespoons butter
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1/2 cup chopped celery
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1/4 cup finely chopped onion
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1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
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2 cups soft bread cubes
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1 cup diced peeled apple
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1/4 cup chicken broth
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
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1/8 teaspoon ground sage
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1 tablespoon vegetable oil
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut a pocket in each pork chop by slicing from the fat side almost to the bone.
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In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add celery, onion, and red bell pepper; sauté until tender, about 5 minutes.
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Remove from heat and stir in bread cubes, diced apple, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and sage. Mix until well combined.
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Spoon the stuffing into each pork chop pocket.
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Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
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Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown chops on both sides for about 2-3 minutes per side.
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Place chops in a greased baking dish. Cover with foil.
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Bake for 35-40 minutes or until internal temperature of pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
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Let rest 3 minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 435 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Hearty Tradition of Stuffed Iowa Chops: A Comfort Food Classic
Few dishes embody the essence of Midwestern comfort food like Stuffed Iowa Chops. With their thick, juicy cut and a savory stuffing that bursts with flavor, these chops bring warmth to any dinner table. A celebration of pork at its finest, Stuffed Iowa Chops are not just a recipe they’re a culinary experience that pays homage to Iowa’s rich agricultural heritage and a deep-rooted tradition of home-cooked meals.
This dish combines a generously cut pork loin chop, typically bone-in for added flavor, with a moist and flavorful bread-based stuffing, often enriched with sautéed vegetables and diced apples. Baked to tender perfection, this meal is beloved for its blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors, its satisfying texture, and its visual appeal. It’s the kind of dish you cook when you want to make someone feel truly at home.
The Iowa Pork Legacy
To understand why these chops hold such a revered place in regional cuisine, you must first appreciate Iowa’s position as the largest pork-producing state in the U.S. Iowa has long been the backbone of American pork farming, and pork loin chops cut from the most tender part of the pig are one of the state’s signature cuts. It’s no surprise then that a dish highlighting this premium cut, prepared in a wholesome, rustic manner, would become synonymous with Iowa comfort food.
The “Iowa Chop” specifically refers to a pork chop that is especially thick often 1½ to 2 inches and is bone-in, adding flavor and presentation value. Stuffing this already impressive chop turns it into a centerpiece dish worthy of Sunday dinner or holiday celebrations.
Why Stuffed Iowa Chops Are So Beloved
There are several reasons why this dish continues to maintain popularity across generations:
1. Hearty and Satisfying
The substantial size of the Iowa chop ensures that the dish feels complete and filling. Paired with a stuffing mixture of vegetables, herbs, and often a touch of fruit like apple, it becomes a well-rounded entrée that doesn’t even require sides to feel like a meal (though creamy mashed potatoes and green beans pair beautifully).
2. A Beautiful Blend of Flavors
The stuffing typically contains aromatic vegetables like onion and celery, sometimes bell pepper for a splash of color and flavor. When diced apples are added, they bring a subtle sweetness that complements the richness of the pork. The result is a dish that’s perfectly balanced between savory, earthy, and slightly sweet notes.
3. Perfect for Gatherings
Whether you’re feeding family during the holidays or hosting a dinner party, Stuffed Iowa Chops make a memorable impression. Their presentation is stunning, especially when plated with a drizzle of pan juices or gravy, and they feel both rustic and elegant.
Tips for Making the Best Stuffed Iowa Chops
Even though the recipe is relatively straightforward, there are a few techniques that elevate this dish to the next level.
1. Choose the Right Cut
Go for bone-in, center-cut pork loin chops, ideally at least 1½ inches thick. The bone adds flavor and helps the meat stay juicy during cooking, while the thickness allows you to create a generous pocket for stuffing.
2. Don’t Overstuff
It’s tempting to pack in as much stuffing as possible, but it’s important to leave a little breathing room so the filling doesn’t fall out during cooking. Overstuffing can also lead to uneven cooking.
3. Secure the Pocket
If the stuffing is loose or the pocket is too large, use toothpicks to help hold the chop together while it bakes. Just remember to remove them before serving!
4. Sear Before Baking
Searing the chops in a hot skillet before baking develops a caramelized crust that adds texture and seals in juices. It also adds a beautiful golden color that enhances presentation.
5. Let It Rest
After baking, allow the chops to rest for at least 3 minutes before slicing or serving. This helps redistribute the juices, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
Variations You Can Try
One of the best things about this dish is how adaptable it is. The base recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit dietary preferences or seasonal ingredients.
Apple & Cranberry
Add dried cranberries along with apples in the stuffing to make it perfect for a festive fall or Thanksgiving meal.
Sausage-Stuffed
Use cooked ground sausage in the stuffing for a richer, more indulgent flavor profile. This variation is particularly good for winter meals.
Mushroom & Spinach
Go meatless in the stuffing by adding earthy mushrooms and nutrient-rich spinach. It adds umami flavor and a wholesome touch.
Cheese Lovers’ Version
Incorporate shredded sharp cheddar or gouda into the stuffing for an oozy, melted center.
Gluten-Free Adaptation
Use gluten-free bread cubes or cooked rice in place of traditional bread stuffing. The flavor remains amazing, and it’s safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Pairing Suggestions
A dish this rich and savory pairs well with sides and drinks that complement its flavors without overpowering them.
Perfect Side Dishes:
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Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic herb roasted potatoes
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Roasted seasonal vegetables (carrots, Brussels sprouts, squash)
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Buttery green beans or steamed broccoli
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A light salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness
Drink Pairings:
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A dry white wine like Chardonnay or Riesling
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A medium-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir
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Craft cider, which echoes the apple in the stuffing
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Amber ale or brown ale for beer lovers
The Emotional Connection
There’s something deeply nostalgic about dishes like Stuffed Iowa Chops. They remind many of family dinners, weekend gatherings, and the kind of cooking that takes time and love. It’s not just about feeding the body it’s about nurturing the soul.
In the age of fast food and microwave meals, this dish is a reminder of the joy of slow cooking of filling your kitchen with the scent of savory herbs and caramelized meat, of setting a proper table, and of sharing a lovingly made meal with the people you care about.
Conclusion:
Stuffed Iowa Chops represent the very best of Midwestern comfort food bold, flavorful, and made with heart. Their impressive size and savory-sweet filling make them perfect for both casual family meals and special occasions. From the juicy pork to the rustic stuffing, every bite tells a story of tradition, community, and warmth.
Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with your own variations, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your household. So next time you’re craving a comforting, satisfying meal that brings people together, reach for this Iowa classic. Serve it with pride, and enjoy every bite.