These Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops are juicy and packed with flavor! Coated in a tasty mix of ranch seasoning and cheddar cheese, they’re perfect for a family dinner.
Who doesn’t love cheesy goodness? I always make extra chops because they disappear fast! Serve with some veggies, and you’ve got a meal everyone will enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend bone-in pork chops for more flavor and moisture. If you only have boneless chops, those will work too, but adjust cooking time slightly as they may cook faster.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: Store-bought ranch seasoning is convenient, but you can make your own using a mix of dried herbs like dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. It’s a fun way to personalize the flavor!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a robust flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, try Monterey Jack for a milder taste, or pepper jack for a bit of a kick. Vegan cheese can work as well if you’re dairy-free.
Olive Oil: This adds a lovely richness to the chops. You can substitute it with vegetable oil or melted butter, depending on what you have on hand.
How Can I Get My Pork Chops Golden Brown and Juicy?
To achieve that lovely golden-brown crust while ensuring the pork chops stay juicy, searing is crucial. Start with a hot skillet and aim for medium-high heat.
- Pat your pork chops dry to remove excess moisture. This helps them brown better.
- Rub them with oil and coat with the seasoning mixture for maximum flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; give each chop space to sear properly. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden.
- Finally, finishing them in the oven helps cook them evenly and retain moisture. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Resting the chops after cooking is key too; it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat stays tender! Enjoy your meal!
Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Coating:
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley or rosemary (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 20 minutes to cook. So, in around 35 minutes, you’ll have a tasty meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your pork chops cook evenly and get that nice, cheesy topping bubbly.
2. Prepare the Seasoning Mix:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. This will be the flavorful coating for your pork chops!
3. Prep the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This is important as it helps the seasoning stick better. Once dry, rub each chop with olive oil on both sides.
4. Coat with Seasoning:
Now, take your seasoning mixture and coat each pork chop evenly, pressing gently so it sticks. This is where all that delicious flavor comes from!
5. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they have a nice golden-brown color.
6. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of each pork chop. This is the cheesy goodness that will melt into perfection!
7. Bake in the Oven:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pork chops are fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 145°F/63°C) and the cheese is bubbly.
8. Let Them Rest:
Once out of the oven, allow the pork chops to rest for about 3 minutes. This helps keep them juicy and tender.
9. Garnish and Serve:
If desired, garnish with fresh parsley or a sprig of rosemary. Serve these hot and enjoy a delightful cheesy meal!
This recipe yields flavorful, cheesy pork chops with a crispy browned exterior and juicy interior, infused with classic ranch herb seasoning. They’re perfect paired with mashed potatoes and steamed veggies!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work fine; just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as they may cook faster than bone-in chops. Start checking for doneness a few minutes earlier.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Ranch Seasoning?
Yes! If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can create your own by mixing dried herbs like dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and a bit of salt. This way, you can customize the flavor to your liking!
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave or oven until heated through. If reheating in the oven, cover them with foil to keep them moist.
What Can I Serve With Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with rice or baked potatoes for a hearty meal!
