These Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops are juicy and bursting with flavor! With a crispy coating made from ranch seasoning and cheese, they are sure to please everyone at the table.
Cooking them is a breeze too! I just season, coat, and cook. They’re perfect with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. Trust me, they’ll disappear fast! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless chops are best since they cook evenly. If you prefer bone-in, that’s fine too! Just adjust cooking time slightly. You can also use chicken breasts or thighs if you want a different protein.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a rich flavor. For a twist, try pepper jack for some heat, or mozzarella for a milder taste. Just ensure it’s shredded for easy melting and mixing.
Ranch Seasoning: This packet adds a tasty punch. If you’re out, you can make your own using a blend of garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and salt—super easy!
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: Both add creaminess. If you want a lighter option, consider Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. It works well here and boosts protein too!
How Do You Get a Perfectly Crispy Cheese Top?
Getting that golden, crispy crust on top of your pork chops is all about the right cooking method. Here are steps for success:
- First, sear the pork chops in a hot skillet. This creates a nice browning effect and adds flavor.
- Next, bake with the cheese side up, allowing it to melt thoroughly without burning.
- If you want it crispier, use the broil setting for the last couple of minutes until it’s golden brown. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
- Letting the chops rest after baking helps keep them juicy, so don’t skip that step!
Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 30 minutes in total, including 10 minutes of prep time and about 20 minutes to cook. It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, lightly grease a baking dish with a bit of oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Cheddar Ranch Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried parsley. Mix everything together until it’s well combined—you want a creamy mixture!
3. Season the Pork Chops:
Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides of your boneless pork chops. This adds flavor before you coat them.
4. Add the Cheddar Ranch Mixture:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels (this helps them sear better). Then, spread a generous amount of your cheddar ranch mixture over the top of each chop. Press gently to help it stick!
5. Sear the Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the pork chops with the cheese side facing up in the skillet. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Carefully move the pork chops to your prepared baking dish, maintaining the cheese side up. This helps keep that cheesy goodness intact!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), ensuring they are fully cooked.
8. Crisp Up the Cheese:
If you want an extra crispy cheese topping, switch your oven setting to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep a close watch during this time to prevent burning!
9. Let Them Rest:
Once done, take the pork chops out of the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for keeping the juices inside.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops hot with your choice of side dishes, such as creamy mashed potatoes or a crunchy salad!
This recipe promises tender, juicy pork chops with a crispy, cheesy ranch crust that is sure to tantalize your taste buds!
Can I Use Bone-in Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! You can use bone-in chops, but be aware that they might require a slightly longer cooking time. Just make sure to check that they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
What If I Don’t Have Ranch Seasoning?
No worries! You can create a simple substitute at home by mixing dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Use about 1 tablespoon of this mix instead of a packet of ranch seasoning to flavor your pork chops.
How Can I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm, or use the microwave for a quicker option, although it may lose some crispiness.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pork chops with the cheese mixture and store them uncooked in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. Just bring them to room temperature before baking for best results!
