Cooking store bought stuffed pork chops is a great way to enjoy a quick and tasty meal without a lot of fuss. Stuffed pork chops make for a delicious entrée, combining the flavors of savory pork with various fillings like cheese, breadcrumbs, apples and more. Determining the right cook time is important to ensure the chops are fully cooked without drying out. The cooking time can vary based on the size and thickness of the chops, as well as the cooking method used. Generally, stuffed pork chops take 30-60 minutes to reach the proper internal temperature when baked or grilled.
How Long to Bake Stuffed Pork Chops
Baking is a simple hands-off cooking method for stuffed pork chops. The oven’s dry heat thoroughly cooks the pork while also melting and crisping the filling. Here is an overview of approximate bake times for stuffed pork chops:
Thickness
| Thickness of Chop | Bake Time |
|---|---|
| 1/2 inch thick | 25-35 minutes at 350°F |
| 3/4 inch thick | 30-40 minutes at 350°F |
| 1 inch thick | 35-45 minutes at 350°F |
| 1 1/2 inches thick | 45-60 minutes at 350°F |
As shown in the table, thinner stuffed chops require less time in the oven than thicker chops. Boneless chops will also cook faster than bone-in. The filling ingredients can also impact bake time. Cheese-filled chops may need 5 extra minutes if the filling is not fully melted.
It is important when baking stuffed pork chops to use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness, regardless of thickness. The pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F with a 3-minute rest time afterward. If the chops are not yet cooked through, continue baking and checking the temperature every 5-10 minutes until reaching 145°F.
Oven Temperature
While 350°F is standard for baking stuffed pork chops, the temperature can be adjusted to speed up or slow down cooking:
– Higher oven temps (375°F – 400°F) will reduce bake time but may dry out the pork. Monitor closely.
– Lower oven temps (325°F) will increase bake time but keeps the chops juicier. extend cooking time.
Weight
Larger stuffed chops will require longer cook times than smaller chops at the same thickness. Add 5-10 extra minutes for baking 12-16 oz stuffed chops compared to 6-8 oz ones.
How Long to Grill Stuffed Pork Chops
Grilling brings out great flavor in stuffed pork chops. The direct heat sears the outside while cooking the inside. Grill times are similar to baking:
| Thickness | Grill Time |
|---|---|
| 1/2 inch | 14-18 minutes |
| 3/4 inch | 18-22 minutes |
| 1 inch | 22-26 minutes |
| 1 1/2 inches | 26-32 minutes |
These times are based on medium-high heat (400°F) and chops cooked over direct heat, flipping halfway through.
On a gas grill, cook the chops over medium heat (350°F) for longer, more even cooking. Charcoal and wood pellet grills burn hotter than gas, so reduce heat to prevent burning.
Always grill stuffed pork chops to 145°F internally before serving. Use tongs instead of a fork to flip chops and prevent releasing juices. Let chops rest 5 minutes after grilling.
Tips for Cooking Store Bought Stuffed Pork Chops
Follow these tips for the best results when cooking store bought stuffed pork chops:
Bring to Room Temperature
Take stuffed pork chops out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to take the chill off. This helps them cook more quickly and evenly.
Preheat the Oven or Grill
Make sure the oven or grill is fully preheated before cooking pork chops. This prevents uneven cooking.
Use a Meat Thermometer
Test the internal temperature to ensure chops reach a safe 145°F. Check in the thickest part without touching the bone.
Avoid Overcooking
Cook just until the minimum safe temperature, not longer. Pork dries out if cooked past 145°F.
Let Rest Before Serving
Allowing the chops to rest 5 minutes after cooking allows juices to redistribute for moister meat.
Brush with Sauce at the End
Add any glazes, sauces or seasonings toward the end of grilling or baking to prevent burning or charring.
Bake Uncooked from Frozen
Frozen stuffed chops can go straight into the preheated oven without thawing. Add 10-15 extra minutes to the bake time.
Conclusion
Store bought stuffed pork chops offer convenience while still delivering tastiness. Allow 30-60 minutes of cooking time depending on the thickness, cooking method and other factors. Checking temperature rather than relying on cook time alone ensures safely cooked pork. With a few simple guidelines, baked or grilled stuffed chops can be a quick and delicious dinner option.