These Ranch Pork Chops are juicy and full of flavor, thanks to a tasty mix of ranch seasoning that makes every bite delightful. Easy to cook in just one pan, they save time and cleanup!
Honestly, I love how the ranch flavor makes these pork chops special. They’re great for weeknight dinners when I need something quick and yummy. Pair them with mashed potatoes, and you’re set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and juiciness. If you’re short on time, you can use boneless chops; just adjust the cooking time as they will cook quicker.
Ranch Seasoning: A packet of ranch seasoning makes this recipe simple and delicious. If you want to make it from scratch, combine dried herbs like parsley, dill, and garlic powder for a similar flavor.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. You can substitute it with half-and-half for a lighter option or coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
Chicken Broth: It enhances the sauce’s flavor. Vegetable broth can be a good swap if you want a vegetarian option, but it may alter the taste slightly.
Baby Potatoes: They’re optional but delicious! You can replace them with other vegetables like green beans or asparagus depending on what you have on hand.
How Do You Perfectly Sear Pork Chops?
Searing locks in flavor and creates a lovely crust on your pork chops. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the oil.
- Pat the chops dry to encourage browning—moisture can prevent a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Let them cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes before flipping to allow a nice crust to form.
Following these tips will help you achieve that perfect golden-brown exterior! Enjoy your cooking!
Ranch Pork Chops Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 12 small baby potatoes (optional, for serving)
- Fresh rosemary sprig (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Ranch Pork Chops recipe will take about 20 minutes of cooking time. If you’re including baby potatoes, plan for an additional 15 minutes to boil or roast them. Overall, you can enjoy a fantastic meal in about 35-40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Next, season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This little step adds so much flavor!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large cast iron skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s nice and hot. Carefully add the pork chops and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want them to be golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove them from the pan and keep warm by covering them loosely with foil.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the butter and watch it melt. Then sprinkle in the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir everything together and let it toast for about 30 seconds to get those flavors going.
4. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in the chicken broth slowly, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any tasty brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This adds a lot of flavor to your sauce!
5. Create the Creamy Ranch Sauce:
Next, stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 3-5 minutes, until it thickens a bit. You’ll love how comforting this sauce becomes!
6. Combine and Serve:
Return the pork chops to the pan, spooning the ranch sauce over them. Let them simmer in that deliciously creamy sauce for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. If you’re cooking the optional baby potatoes, boil or roast them now until tender.
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
To serve, plate the pork chops and pour extra ranch sauce over the top. If you made the potatoes, toss them with some chopped parsley and add to the plate. Garnish your dish with fresh parsley and a sprig of rosemary for that lovely finishing touch.
Now, dig in and enjoy your tender, flavorful Ranch Pork Chops with a creamy, herb-infused sauce! You’re going to love them!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind that they will cook more quickly, so start checking for doneness at around 3 minutes per side to avoid drying them out.
Can I Make This Without Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even plain Greek yogurt. Just stir it in at the end of cooking to avoid curdling!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Ranch Pork Chops can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to keep them moist.
What Can I Serve With Ranch Pork Chops?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. You could also serve it with a fresh salad for a lighter side. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations!
