These Ranch Pork Chops are juicy and packed with flavor. Coated with ranch seasoning, they’re super easy to make and perfect for busy nights!
Honestly, the ranch flavor makes everything better, and you can whip these up in no time! Pair them with veggies or mashed potatoes for a tasty meal your family will love.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are the best choice because the bone keeps the meat juicy. If you only have boneless chops, those will work fine, too. Just adjust the cooking time since they cook a bit faster.
Ranch Seasoning: You can buy ranch seasoning, but making it at home is simple! Just mix equal parts of dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley, plus a pinch of salt. This way, you can control what goes in!
Chicken Broth: If you need a substitute, vegetable broth works perfectly. For a richer flavor, you might use low-sodium broth, especially if you’re mindful of salt.
Heavy Cream: Want to lighten it up? Use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that the sauce may have a slightly different texture.
How Do You Achieve Tender and Juicy Pork Chops?
The secret to tender pork chops lies in proper cooking. First, pat the chops dry before seasoning—that helps to get a nice sear. When cooking, it’s essential to use medium-high heat to create a golden-brown crust that locks in the juices. Here’s how to do it:
- Sear both sides for 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then lower the heat to finish cooking.
- Cook covered on low to keep them juicy; check for doneness with a meat thermometer—145°F (63°C) is your target!
Rest the pork chops for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
Ranch Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for color and subtle smoky flavor)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making it a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but delicious enough for special occasions!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step helps to get a great sear. Then, season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and the ranch seasoning mix.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot. Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nice and browned and have a good crust. Once they are browned, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant—be careful not to burn it! Next, pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping the bottom of the skillet to loosen any tasty browned bits. If you want, add the smoked paprika here for an extra layer of flavor.
4. Combine Cream and Chops:
Stir in the heavy cream, and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Now, return the pork chops to the skillet, spoon some of that delicious sauce over them, cover, and cook on low heat for 8-10 minutes. You want the chops to cook through and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Finish and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops to a serving plate. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for another 2-3 minutes if you want it to thicken slightly. Finally, pour the creamy ranch sauce over the pork chops and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Serve these flavorful, tender Ranch Pork Chops hot, alongside your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or rice. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops will work just fine! Just remember, they will cook faster, so keep an eye on them and aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
How to Make My Own Ranch Seasoning?
Making your own ranch seasoning is easy! Mix equal parts of dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley, plus a pinch of salt. You can adjust these to taste, adding more garlic or dill if you prefer!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative. Just stir it in after the broth and let it simmer until thickened.
What Are the Best Side Dishes to Serve?
These Ranch Pork Chops pair perfectly with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or rice to soak up the creamy sauce. Salads or roasted vegetables are also great for a lighter option!