These Ranch Pork Chops are juicy and full of flavor! Coated in ranch seasoning and baked to perfection, they’re an easy meal everyone will enjoy.
Honestly, I love how they can be on the table in no time! Serve them with veggies or mashed potatoes, and you’ve got a winner. Can’t wait for leftovers! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are ideal for flavor and tenderness. If you can’t find them, boneless chops will work too; just cook them a little less since they’re thinner.
Ranch Seasoning: This adds a great punch of flavor! If you’re making your own, mix equal parts dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder. You can even use Italian seasoning for a different twist.
Heavy Cream: I usually go for heavy cream for its thickness, but sour cream is a fantastic lower-fat option. You can also use plain Greek yogurt, just mix it in after removing from heat to avoid curdling.
Chicken Broth: You can substitute with vegetable broth if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. It still brings that rich flavor to the sauce!
How Do I Get the Pork Chops Perfectly Cooked Without Drying Them Out?
Cooking pork chops can be tricky, but it’s all about timing and temperature. Start by searing the chops on high heat to lock in moisture. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the oil and chops; this will give you a nice golden crust.
- Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side, then remove them before they’re fully cooked. They’ll continue to cook in the sauce.
- Use a meat thermometer and aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Letting them rest for a few minutes before serving also keeps them juicy.
Ranch Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or sour cream
- Fresh parsley or thyme sprigs, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Ranch Pork Chops recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps create a great sear! Season both sides generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Sear the Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned pork chops. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Once done, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic, dried or fresh parsley, and thyme. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant. Then, sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix into the skillet, stirring well to combine with the butter and herbs.
4. Add Broth and Cream:
Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then stir in the heavy cream until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
5. Finish Cooking the Pork Chops:
Return the seared pork chops to the skillet and spoon some of the creamy sauce over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer gently for 8-10 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 145°F / 63°C).
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Take the skillet off the heat. Garnish the pork chops with fresh parsley or thyme sprigs for a pop of color. Serve them with the creamy ranch sauce drizzled over the top, alongside your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful meal!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops work well, too. Just keep in mind that they are thinner than bone-in chops, so you’ll want to reduce the cooking time to about 6-8 minutes total to prevent them from drying out.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lower in Calories?
If you’re looking to lighten up the dish, consider using non-fat Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream. It adds creaminess without the extra calories. Also, opt for skinless pork chops and reduce the amount of butter or replace it with olive oil.
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep the sauce fresh and prevent it from drying out.
Can I Freeze the Ranch Pork Chops?
Yes, you can freeze cooked pork chops! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can stay frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming them in a skillet or microwave.
