Hearty Vermont Cheddar and Apple-Stuffed Pork Chops with Maple Glaze

Ingredients

• 4 large bone-in pork chops
• 1 cup Vermont cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground

• 1 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1. 01
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. 02
   In a bowl, combine shredded cheddar, diced apples, breadcrumbs, and chopped thyme. Mix well.
3. 03
   Cut a deep pocket in each pork chop, making sure not to cut all the way through. Stuff each pocket with the apple-cheddar mixture.
4. 04
   Season the outside of the pork chops with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
5. 05
   In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
6. 06
   Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through.
7. 07
   While the pork chops are baking, prepare the maple glaze by whisking together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
8. 08
   Remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with the maple glaze before serving.