Enjoy these tasty oven-baked ranch pork chops that are super easy to make! Juicy chops are coated in a zesty ranch seasoning, giving them a yummy flavor everyone will love.
These chewy chops are perfect for a hassle-free dinner. I love serving them with some crispy veggies or mashed potatoes. What about you? 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless chops work best for even cooking and tenderness. If you prefer bone-in chops for extra flavor, feel free to switch! You can also use chicken breasts as a lighter alternative.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This mix adds fantastic flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can replace it with a homemade blend of equal parts dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, and onion powder. It’s delicious!
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil, but avocado oil or vegetable oil also works well. They all help to crisp up the chops during cooking!
Herbs: Fresh rosemary is lovely for garnishing, but if you don’t have it, try thyme, oregano, or even Italian seasoning as a substitute.
How Do I Get Pork Chops Perfectly Cooked and Juicy?
Cooking pork chops perfectly can be tricky. You want a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. Here’s how to do it!
- First, dry the pork chops with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chops—this creates a beautiful crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; this can drop the temperature and make them steam instead of sear.
- Use a meat thermometer. The ideal internal temperature for pork is 145°F (63°C). This ensures they are safe to eat while remaining juicy.
- Allow the chops to rest after cooking. This lets juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
With these tips, your Oven Baked Ranch Pork Chops will turn out perfectly every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Oven Baked Ranch Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or dried herbs (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes of prep time, followed by 20-25 minutes of cooking time. You’ll have tasty and juicy pork chops ready in a quick half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the oven is nice and hot for that perfect sear on your pork chops.
2. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, gather together the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir them together until well combined. This will add great flavor to your pork chops!
3. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better. Once dried, rub the olive oil on both sides of the pork chops to keep them moist during cooking.
4. Season the Chops:
Now it’s time to sprinkle your seasoning mix over both sides of each pork chop. Press gently to make sure the seasoning sticks nicely.
5. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat an oven-safe skillet on medium-high heat. When it’s hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This creates a yummy crust!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Once seared, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the pork chops for 10-15 minutes or until their internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for accuracy.
7. Let Them Rest:
After baking, remove the skillet from the oven. Let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to settle, making them extra juicy!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, add a sprinkle of fresh or dried rosemary for an extra pop of flavor. Enjoy your delicious oven-baked ranch pork chops!
These pork chops are not just easy but also full of flavor. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner! Enjoy!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops will add a bit more flavor and can be juicier. Just keep in mind that bone-in chops may take a couple of extra minutes to cook through, so check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have Ranch Seasoning?
No worries! You can create your own seasoning by mixing equal parts dried parsley, dill weed, garlic powder, and onion powder. This homemade mix will give a similar flavor profile to ranch seasoning!
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Overnight?
Yes, marinating the pork chops in the seasoning mix combined with olive oil for several hours or overnight in the fridge can enhance the flavor. Just be sure to bring them back to room temperature before cooking for even results!
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist.
