Ingredients:
For the Pork Chops:
4 thick-cut pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
For the Crab Stuffing:
1 cup lump crab meat, meticulously picked over for any stray shell
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened to a silken dream
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped with care
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced to perfection
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, the kind that melts like a dream
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: A whisper of cayenne pepper, for those who crave a hint of fire
Instructions:
1. A Symphony of the Sea: In a mixing bowl, gently combine the sweet lump crab meat, softened cream cheese, breadcrumbs, green onions, parsley, Dijon mustard, and a touch of lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper, ensuring each element sings in harmony.
2. Preparing the Canvas: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). With a sharp knife, create a delicate pocket within each pork chop, careful not to pierce through. Season these blank canvases with salt and pepper.
3. The Heart of the Matter: Fill each pork chop with the divine crab stuffing, using gentle pressure to seal the opening. If needed, secure with toothpicks for a touch of elegance.
4. A Golden Embrace: In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Introduce the stuffed pork chops, allowing them to bask in the warmth for 4–5 minutes per side, until they wear a coat of golden brown.
5. Culinary Alchemy: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes. The pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) when it’s ready to share its secrets. Once baked, allow the pork chops to rest for 5 minutes, absorbing the flavors.
6. A Velvety Symphony: In the same skillet, melt the butter and introduce the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, approximately 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring with care to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently, thickening gracefully over 3–5 minutes. Incorporate the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and a whisper of cayenne, if desired.
7. A Culinary Masterpiece: Slice the stuffed pork chops, revealing the treasures within, and drape them with the velvety garlic sauce. For a final flourish, garnish with additional parsley.
Prep Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 45 mins | Servings: 4
