Stuffed Pork Chops with Apple Dressing

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat,melt the butter; add the onion and celery and cook until tender…about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Meanwhile, with sharp knife, form a pocket in the chops by cutting horizontally through each chop almost to the bone. (The butcher can do this for you too)

Step 4: Remove skillet from heat and stir in diced bread, chopped apple, beaten egg, poultry seasoning, salt and pepper.

Step 5: Stuff the pork chops with the dressing. Add left over dressing to a lightly greased 2-3 cup baking dish and cover with foil; set aside.

Step 6: Wipe out the skillet and add a couple of teaspoons of cooking oil. In the oiled skillet over medium heat, add the stuffed chops to the skillet. Cook one at a time, if necessary. Sprinkle chops with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on both sides, turning once with a spatula.

Step 7: While the pork chops are browning, add the broth and a bay leaf to a 9x9 inch-baking pan or casserole dish, or one that the chops will fit in.

Step 8: Add the lightly cooked, stuffed chops into the baking pan. Cover with foil and bake in a 350-degree oven for 35-45 minutes or until fork tender. (Add the small casserole dish of dressing at this time, if wanted.)

Step 9: Strain liquid to make gravy or just spoon juice over pork chops for extra moisture.