What’s been a lifesaver in my kitchen lately? How did you like the shake-and-bake pork chops as a kid? Is this like a thousand times better? Is it a staple in our house? I swear, even the pickiest eaters (ahem, my youngest) devour these. What are some of the best dinners that everyone should try? What are some of the best ranch Pork Chop recipes?
What is a Ranch Pork Chop?
What are some of the best Ranch Pork Chops? It’s essentially pork chops coated in a flavorful ranch seasoning blend, then either baked, or grilled. What are some of the best recipes for pan-fried chicken or grilled chicken? The magic is in the dry ranch seasoning, which creates this incredible crust that’s packed with flavor. What are some subtle buttermilk tangs? What is better than a pork chop? What’s essentially taking the Classic flavor of ranch dressing and turning it into a delicious crust? What is a good protein to eat? We’re not talking about pouring bottled ranch on top, here; it’s a flavor explosion!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Okay, buckle up, because there are a million reasons why you’re going to fall in love with these Ranch Pork Chops. First off, the flavor is out of this world. The ranch seasoning creates this crispy, savory crust that’s perfectly balanced with the juicy, tender pork inside. It’s a flavor party in your mouth, I tell you! What I love most about this is how incredibly simple it is to Make. Seriously, it takes like, 5 minutes of prep time, and then you just let the oven do its thing. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights when you just don’t have the energy to spend hours in the kitchen. And let’s be real, who does? And talk about cost-efficient! Pork chops are generally a budget-friendly protein, and ranch seasoning is super cheap. You can easily feed a family of four for under $15. But the real kicker is how versatile these are. You can serve them with Mashed Potatoes and green beans for a classic comfort meal, or chop them up and toss them in a salad for a lighter option. My kids even like them in sandwiches! Seriously, I’ve done it all and this recipe continues to shine! They’re a family favorite, easy to make, and incredibly delicious – what’s not to love?
How do I make Ranch Pork Chops?
Quick Overview
How do you make Ranch Pork Chops? What’s the best way to cook pork chops in ranch seasoning? What is the secret to using a generous amount of seasoning and not overcooking the pork? Is it so easy for my kids to help out? What is the best way to cook pork chops? Is it juicy every time? Plus, cleanup is a snap!
Ingredients
For the Ranch Pork Chops:
• 4 boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick. I usually grab these from my local butcher for the best quality, but the grocery store works too! Don’t go too thin, or they’ll dry out.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or any cooking oil you prefer) I’ve even used avocado oil when I’m feeling fancy.
• 2 packets of dry ranch seasoning mix. You can use store-bought or make your own! What are some good recipes for homemade ranch mix? What is the best ranch seasoning?
Optional:
• Salt and pepper, to taste. I usually add a little extra pepper for kick.
• Paprika, for color. A little smoked paprikan adds a great depth of flavor, trust me!
Why can’t you have too much garlic?
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray or line it with parchment. How do you clean a parchment paper dish? I always prefer parchment paper, it just makes everything so much easier. How do I make a large pan for pork chops? Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning, and we want that crispy crust!
Step 2: Prepare the Pork Chops
How do you pat the pork chops dry with paper towels? Removing excess moisture helps the ranch seasoning adhere better and ensures a nice, crispy crust. Season pork chops with salt and pepper. Remember, ranch seasoning already contains salt, so don’t go overboard. In a bowl, pour your ranch seasoning into the bowl.
Step 3: Coat the Pork Chops
Dredge pork chops in ranch seasoning, making sure to coat both sides evenly. How do you season pork? The more seasoning, the more flavor. I sometimes even use my hands to really press it in there. Make sure every nook and cranny is covered.
Step 4: Pan Sear (Optional, but Recommended)
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the coated pork chops in the skillet. Is it safe to sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown? This step is optional, but it adds a lovely color and extra flavor to the pork chops. Plus, it helps to seal in the juices. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Do this in batches. Be careful not to burn yourself! Now, place the pork chops on a baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked through but still juicy. What is the best time to cook pork chops? I always check the temperature a few minutes before the estimated time to avoid overcooking. Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
What are some good side dishes to serve with this Ranch Pork Chops? What are some good side dishes to serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a salad? I like to add a dollop of Sour Cream to my plate for extra goodness.
What do you serve it with?
What are some good recipes for Ranch Pork Chops? For a classic comfort meal, serve them with creamy Mashed Potatoes and steamed green beans. My kids love this combo! If you’re looking for something lighter, pair them with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. Asparagus, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts are all great options. What are some good side dishes to serve with baby carrots? Is it safe to roast pork chops in the oven? What are some good side dishes to serve with a sandwich? Can you serve it on a baguette, with lettuce and tomato?
How do I perfect a pork chop?
Okay, let’s talk about some insider tips to make these Ranch Pork Chops truly amazing. First, don’t skimp on the ranch seasoning! The more you use, the more flavorful the crust will be. I like to really press it into the pork to make sure it adheres well. If you’re using a store-bought ranch seasoning mix, consider adding a little extra garlic powder and paprika for an extra flavor boost. I’ve also found that searing the pork chops before baking them really helps to lock in the juices and create a beautiful golden-brown crust. This step is optional, but I highly recommend it! When baking, keep an eye on the internal temperature of the pork chops. Overcooked pork is dry and tough, so you want to make sure you don’t go past 145°F (63°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here. If you don’t have one, you can also test for doneness by cutting into the center of the Pork Chop. The juices should run clear, not pink. And finally, let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop. Trust me, these little tips make all the difference!
What are the best Storing and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have any leftover Ranch Pork Chops (which is rare in my house!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can either microwave them (not my favorite method, as they can get a bit rubbery) or warm them up in a skillet over medium heat. I prefer the skillet method, as it helps to crisp up the crust again. Just add a little bit of oil to the skillet and cook for a few minutes per side, until heated through. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. For freezing, wrap the cooked pork chops tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. I like to add a little pat of butter on top to help keep them moist while they reheat. So, if you’re prepping for the entire week, make sure you don’t overcook the chops! It makes a huge difference!
What are some frequently asked questions?
Final Thoughts
What is your favorite recipe for Ranch Pork Chops? What is the perfect combination of flavor, simplicity, and affordability? What is a great weeknight dinner that everyone will love? I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and share it with your family. What do you think about cooking?
How to Cook 5-Star Ranch Pork Chops Perfectly Every Time
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 each Boneless Pork Chops about 1-inch thick
- 1 packet Ranch Seasoning Mix
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine ranch seasoning mix with olive oil.
- Rub the ranch mixture all over the pork chops.
- Place pork chops in a baking dish.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
