CUBAN PORK CHOPS: Pan Fried, Grilled, Stuffed, Classic

Think of delicious pork dishes, like Cuban pork chops (Chuletas de Puerco, also known as Chuletas de Cerdo). These stand out as an incredibly flavorful option that can easily become a favorite at your dinner table. With their rich taste and versatile preparation methods, these chops can be grilled, pan-fried, or stuffed with delightful ingredients, making them a fantastic alternative to regular pork chops. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, Cuban pork chops offer a unique culinary experience that is both satisfying and memorable. Finally, this is part of our Cuban Cuisine, Pork, Grilling, & Stove Top Recipes categories.
Start with the Cuban Pork Marinade & Cuban Pork Sauce
The two popular items to have ready for any Cuban style cooking of pork are the marinade and the sauce. Some American recipes make one and use it for both but, they are actually a little different from each other when using the authentic methods.
The Cuban Pork Marinade is for use with the raw meat. The Cuban Pork Sauce is for pouring over the cooked Cuban-style pork; also, it’s used for dipping. So, check out those recipes individually to have both ready and on hand.
- Cuban Pork Marinade (for raw meat)
- Cuban Pork Sauce (for cooked meat)
Select the Cuban Pork Chops Recipe you want
Each one is described in more detail below (1-4). But, if you want to go directly to that recipe now, here’s the list:
- Classic Pan Fried Cuban Pork Chops
- Authentic Pan Fried Cuban STUFFED Pork Chops
- Classic GRILLED Cuban Pork Chops
- Ultimate GRILLED Cuban STUFFED Pork Chops
1. PAN FRIED Cuban Pork Chops: Quick and Delicious

For those nights when time is of the essence but flavor is non-negotiable, my authentic pan-fried Cuban pork chops recipe is the answer. With a simple process that yields delicious results, you can have a mouthwatering meal ready in no time. Begin by butterflying your pork chops if they’re too thick; this not only helps them cook more evenly but also allows for quicker cooking times.
After marinating your chops, brush them lightly with olive oil, salt, and pepper before placing them in a preheated skillet. The goal here is to achieve a delightful golden-brown crust while keeping the inside juicy. Cooking time typically spans around 15 minutes but may take longer for thicker cuts. As a finishing touch, pour some of that delicious Cuban pork sauce over the chops while they’re still in the pan. This not only keeps them moist but also adds an extra layer of flavor that’s hard to resist.
Here’s a different way to cook Pan Fried Cuban Pork Chops by Cuban.Recipes site.
2. Elevate Your Dinner with PAN FRIED Cuban STUFFED Pork Chops

If you want to take your Cuban cooking up a notch, my authentic Pan Fried Cuban STUFFED Pork Chops recipe is a fantastic option. These aren’t just any stuffed chops; they are filled with layers of Swiss cheese, deli ham, and pickles—the very essence of Cuban flavors wrapped up in a delicious package.
Start by butterflying and pounding your pork chops to make them thinner and easier to fill and fold. After marinating these beauties, layer Swiss cheese, ham slices, pickles, and a 2nd layer of cheese and ham inside before folding them over. This not only makes for a hearty meal but also adds a delightful surprise when you slice into them.
Cook these stuffed wonders in your skillet for about 15 minutes. Just like with the regular pan-fried version, finish with the Cuban pork sauce for an added burst of flavor.
3. GRILLED Cuban Pork Chops: A Classic Outdoors Delight

When it comes to summer barbecues or outdoor cooking, this classic grilled Cuban pork chops recipe is a show-stopper. The smoky flavor from grilling adds an incredible depth that complements the marinade beautifully. Similar to pan frying, begin by butterflying your chops if they are thick and then marinate them to infuse those bold flavors.
Here’s another way to make Grilled Cuban Pork Chops.
Before grilling, brush the chops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill them over direct heat for about 15 minutes or opt for indirect heat if you prefer a slower cook. The key is keeping an eye on them to prevent overcooking while aiming for that perfect char. Once done, transfer them to a serving dish and pour over some Cuban pork sauce for that extra oomph.
4. GRILLED Cuban STUFFED Pork Chops: The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser

For those who want to impress their guests, here’s my authentic grilled Cuban stuffed pork chops recipe. They combine all the elements of traditional stuffed chops with the irresistible flavor that comes from grilling. Follow the same steps as before—pound, fill, and marinate—but this time prepare them for the grill.
Grilling stuffed pork chops requires careful attention due to their thickness. Ensure you cook them thoroughly while preventing the filling from spilling out. Just like with regular grilled chops, finish by drenching them in that flavorful Cuban pork sauce for added moisture and taste.
Here’s a video of Bobby Flay’s way of cooking Grilled Stuffed Cuban Pork Chops.
Conclusion: Discover Your New 4 Favorite Cuban Pork Chops Recipes
Cuban pork chops offer an exciting twist on traditional pork dishes that can easily become a staple in your home cooking repertoire. With options like pan-fried and grilled variants—both regular and stuffed—you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy this flavorful meat. Plus, the accompanying Cuban pork sauce and marinade make these recipes adaptable for any occasion.
Also, if you would like deeper Cuban recipes, look at this entire site: Cuban Cookbook Blog. In addition, here’s a great article on “Traditional Cuban Ingredients and Their Roll in Cuban Cuisine“.
If you’re ready to dive deeper into each preparation method or explore more about the delightful recipes mentioned above—such as the Cuban pork marinade or how to create that beloved Cuban pork sauce—be sure to tap on the links provided for each recipe. Your taste buds will thank you as you transform ordinary dinners into extraordinary culinary experiences!