Ingredients
• For the Pork Chops
o 4 thick-cut pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
o Salt and pepper, to taste
o 2 tablespoons olive oil
o 1 tablespoon butter
• For the Crab Stuffing
o 1 cup lump crab meat, picked over for shells
o 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
o 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
o 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
o 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
o 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
o 1 teaspoon lemon juice
o Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Creamy Garlic Sauce
o 3 tablespoons butter
o 4 cloves garlic, minced
o 1 cup heavy cream
o 1/2 cup chicken broth
o 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
o Salt and pepper, to taste
o Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a hint of heat
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crab Stuffing
o In a bowl, combine the crab meat, cream cheese, breadcrumbs, green onions, parsley, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and set aside.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops
o Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
o Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket in each pork chop, being careful not to cut all the way through. Season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. Stuff the Pork Chops
o Stuff each pork chop with the crab mixture, pressing gently to seal the opening. You can use toothpicks to secure them if necessary.
4. Sear the Pork Chops
o In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed pork chops and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown.
5. Bake the Pork Chops
o Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
6. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
o In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
o Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it thicken slightly for 3–5 minutes.
o Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.
7. Serve
o Slice the stuffed pork chops and drizzle with the creamy garlic sauce. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.
This dish features juicy, flavorful pork chops stuffed with sweet crab meat, all brought together with a luscious creamy garlic sauce, making it a delightful choice for a special dinner!
