Baked Ranch Pork Chops are a delicious and easy way to enjoy juicy pork chops with a flavorful ranch twist. The pork chops get seasoned with a simple blend of ranch dressing mix and a few spices, then baked until tender and perfectly cooked. The outside gets a nice little crust that’s packed with herbs and a touch of garlic, making each bite super tasty.
I love how simple this recipe is—you just rub the seasoning on and pop the chops in the oven with no fuss at all. It’s one of those dinners that feels like a treat but doesn’t take much time or effort. Whenever I make these, I like to add a little extra sprinkle of ranch seasoning before baking to make the flavor really pop. It’s an easy way to make pork chops exciting, even on a busy weeknight.
These pork chops go great with all kinds of sides. I often serve them with roasted veggies or a simple salad and some buttery mashed potatoes. The flavors of the ranch seasoning pair perfectly with creamy sides, making the whole meal feel homemade and satisfying. Plus, leftovers taste great warmed up for lunch the next day, so it’s a win-win.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops about 1-inch thick work best for juicy results. If you prefer leaner meat, boneless chops will work but watch the cooking time closely to avoid drying out.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This is the flavor star here. If you can’t find a packet, mix dried dill, parsley, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper as a homemade version.
Smoked Paprika: Adds a nice smoky depth. If you don’t have this, regular paprika or a pinch of cayenne can be used for a bit of heat.
Olive Oil or Butter: Both add moisture and help the seasoning stick. Butter gives a richer taste, olive oil is lighter. Feel free to choose based on preference or what you have on hand.
How Can You Make Sure the Pork Chops Stay Moist and Tender?
Pork chops can dry out easily if cooked too long or at too high a temperature. Here are some tips:
- Pat chops dry before seasoning so the flavors stick and you get a good crust.
- Cook at 400°F to get the right balance between browning and juiciness.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temp of 145°F—this is the safe temp that keeps pork juicy.
- Let the chops rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute inside the meat.
- If you want a crispier outside, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end—but watch closely to avoid burning.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking dish – I prefer a shallow dish that allows the pork chops to cook evenly and brown nicely.
- Small bowl – for mixing the ranch seasoning and spices so they’re ready to rub onto the meat.
- Meat thermometer – essential for checking doneness and keeping the chops juicy.
- Kitchen tongs or a fork – to handle and turn the pork chops without piercing the meat.
- Aluminum foil (optional) – handy for tenting the chops if they finish early and need to rest.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pork for chicken breasts or thighs for a different but equally tasty main.
- Sprinkle some shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack) on top during the last few minutes for a cheesy crust.
- Add sliced onions or garlic cloves around the chops before baking for extra flavor.
- Mix in some hot sauce or cayenne pepper with the ranch seasoning for a spicy kick.
Baked Ranch Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. After baking, you’ll rest the pork chops for 5 minutes before serving. So, from start to finish, plan for around 35-40 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep Seasoning:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a small bowl, mix together the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. This blend will coat your pork chops with delicious flavor.
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick better. Next, rub both sides of each pork chop with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over both sides and gently rub it in to coat the meat well.
3. Bake the Pork Chops:
Arrange the seasoned pork chops in a single layer in a baking dish. Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and is cooked through. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your chops.
4. Optional Broil for Crust:
If you’d like a crispier exterior, switch your oven to broil and cook the chops for an extra 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye so they don’t burn.
5. Rest and Serve:
Remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. This step helps the juices stay inside and keeps the meat tender. Before serving, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a bright, fresh touch.
Enjoy your tasty, juicy Baked Ranch Pork Chops with your favorite sides!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes! Boneless pork chops work well too, just reduce the baking time slightly since they cook faster. Keep an eye on them to avoid drying out.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Use olive oil instead of butter and double-check your ranch seasoning mix to ensure it doesn’t contain dairy.
Can I Prepare the Pork Chops Ahead of Time?
You can season the pork chops and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This can help intensify the flavor.
