Stuffed Rack of Pork with Cider Gravy

Highlighted under: Warm Plates

Indulge in a succulent stuffed rack of pork, perfectly complemented by a rich cider gravy that brings warmth and comfort to your table.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-01T19:45:44.376Z

This Stuffed Rack of Pork with Cider Gravy is a show-stopping dish that combines tender pork with a flavorful stuffing, making it perfect for special occasions or family gatherings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • A perfect blend of savory stuffing and succulent pork
  • The cider gravy adds a unique touch that enhances the flavors
  • Impressive presentation that will wow your guests

The Perfect Dish for Any Occasion

Stuffed rack of pork is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering, a family dinner, or a special celebration, this dish will undoubtedly take center stage. The combination of juicy pork and a flavorful stuffing makes it a delectable choice that everyone will enjoy. Pair it with seasonal sides, and you have a feast that looks as good as it tastes.

What sets this dish apart is its versatility. You can customize the stuffing with your favorite ingredients, making it suitable for different tastes and preferences. From adding herbs to incorporating more fruits or nuts, the options are endless. This adaptability allows you to create a unique dish every time you make it, impressing your guests and keeping your family excited for meal times.

Understanding the Ingredients

The ingredients in this stuffed rack of pork recipe are carefully selected to create a harmony of flavors. The bread crumbs serve as a base for the stuffing, providing a delightful texture that absorbs the juices from the pork. Apples add a hint of sweetness, while walnuts and cranberries introduce a crunchy and tangy contrast that elevates the dish.

The cider gravy is another star of the show. Made from apple cider and chicken broth, it brings a rich depth to the meal. The butter and flour create a velvety texture, making it perfect for drizzling over the sliced pork. This gravy not only enhances the flavor but also ties all the elements of the dish together, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness.

Tips for Success

To ensure the best results when preparing your stuffed rack of pork, it’s crucial to monitor the cooking temperature closely. Using a meat thermometer can help you achieve the perfect doneness without overcooking the meat. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for juicy and tender pork. Allowing the meat to rest before slicing is equally important; this step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is moist and flavorful.

When it comes to presentation, don’t hesitate to get creative! Serve the stuffed rack of pork on a beautiful platter, garnished with fresh herbs or apple slices. A side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes complements the dish beautifully and adds color to your table. Remember, we eat with our eyes first, so an appealing presentation can elevate your dining experience.

Ingredients

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Rack of Pork

  • 1 rack of pork (8 ribs)
  • 1 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/2 cup diced apples
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cider Gravy

  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Stuffing

In a large bowl, combine bread crumbs, diced apples, walnuts, cranberries, thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.

Stuff the Pork

Using a sharp knife, create a pocket in the rack of pork. Fill the pocket with the stuffing mixture, pressing down to pack it tightly.

Sear the Pork

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the stuffed rack of pork for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Roast the Pork

Transfer the seared pork to the oven and roast for 60-70 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Allow it to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Make the Cider Gravy

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in apple cider and chicken broth, cooking until the gravy thickens.

Season with salt and pepper.

Slice the pork and serve with the cider gravy drizzled on top.

Serving Suggestions

When serving stuffed rack of pork, consider pairing it with seasonal sides that enhance the flavors of the dish. Roasted Brussels sprouts, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh apple and walnut salad work wonderfully. Each of these sides adds a unique texture and flavor profile, complementing the pork beautifully.

A crisp white wine, such as a Chardonnay or a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir, can elevate your meal. The acidity in the wine will balance the richness of the pork and the sweetness of the cider gravy, creating a harmonious dining experience. Don’t forget to set the table with care; a well-set table adds to the overall ambiance of your meal.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing them properly will ensure they remain delicious for future meals. Allow the stuffed rack of pork to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer preservation.

When it’s time to reheat, do so gently to preserve the moisture. You can use an oven set at a low temperature or a microwave with a cover to prevent drying out. Adding a splash of chicken broth or a drizzle of olive oil can help maintain the juiciness, ensuring that each bite is as delightful as the first.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the pork with chicken or beef, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How do I know when the pork is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should read 145°F (63°C) for pork.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing and stuff the pork a day in advance, then roast it on the day of serving.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad make excellent side dishes.

Stuffed Rack of Pork with Cider Gravy

Indulge in a succulent stuffed rack of pork, perfectly complemented by a rich cider gravy that brings warmth and comfort to your table.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration90 minutes
Overall Time110 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Warm Plates

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Stuffed Rack of Pork

  1. 1 rack of pork (8 ribs)
  2. 1 cup bread crumbs
  3. 1/2 cup diced apples
  4. 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
  5. 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  6. 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
  7. 1 tablespoon olive oil
  8. Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cider Gravy

  1. 1 cup apple cider
  2. 2 cups chicken broth
  3. 2 tablespoons butter
  4. 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  5. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large bowl, combine bread crumbs, diced apples, walnuts, cranberries, thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.

Step 02

Using a sharp knife, create a pocket in the rack of pork. Fill the pocket with the stuffing mixture, pressing down to pack it tightly.

Step 03

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the stuffed rack of pork for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step 04

Transfer the seared pork to the oven and roast for 60-70 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Allow it to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 05

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in apple cider and chicken broth, cooking until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Total Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 150mg
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 30g