Baked Ranch Pork Chops are a simple and flavorful dinner that’s perfect for any night of the week. These pork chops get coated in ranch seasoning, then baked until they’re juicy on the inside with a crispy, tasty crust on the outside. The ranch spices add just the right hint of herbs and tang without needing much fuss.
I love making these pork chops because they come together quickly and don’t require a lot of prep. Baking means less mess, and cleaning up is a breeze. Plus, the ranch flavor is something everyone seems to enjoy, making it a great go-to when I want a crowd-pleaser without stressing in the kitchen.
My favorite way to serve these chops is alongside some roasted veggies or a simple green salad. They also pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes or steamed rice to soak up any drips of flavor from the pork. It’s a cozy, satisfying meal that feels like a little treat but is so easy to pull off any time you want.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add more flavor and stay juicy. If you only have boneless, that works, but watch the cooking time—it usually cooks faster.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This is the star for the flavor punch. If you don’t have a packet, blend dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper as a DIY substitute.
Olive Oil: Helps the seasoning stick and aids browning. You can swap it with any mild oil like avocado or sunflower oil.
Sour Cream or Ranch Dressing: Adds creaminess on top after baking. Greek yogurt works great too if you want a lighter option.
How Do I Get Juicy Pork Chops with a Crispy Ranch Crust?
Drying the pork chops well with paper towels before seasoning is key to getting a nice crust. The oil helps the seasoning stick and browns the edges in the oven.
- Coat the chops evenly with seasoning—don’t skip rubbing it in well.
- Bake at a high temperature (400°F) so the outside crisps without drying the inside.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. 145°F is safe and juicy!
- Rest the chops for 5 minutes after baking; this locks in juices and keeps meat tender.
- For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end, but watch closely to avoid burning.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking dish or oven-safe skillet – I like a wide dish so the chops cook evenly and brown nicely.
- Meat thermometer – helps you check when the pork reaches the perfect juicy temperature of 145°F.
- Small mixing bowl – for blending the seasoning mix and spices.
- Pastry brush or spoon – to evenly coat the pork chops with oil and seasoning.
- Oven mitts – to handle hot dishes safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use boneless pork chops for quick cooking, or add a sprinkle of grated cheese on top after baking for extra flavor.
- Swap ranch seasoning for taco or barbecue spice blends for a different flavor twist.
- Add sliced onions or bell peppers around the pork chops before baking for a built-in veggie side.
- Mix chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary into the sour cream topping for a fresh herbal touch.
Baked Ranch Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup sour cream or ranch dressing
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. Add 5 minutes resting time before serving to let the pork chops stay juicy and tender.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or cover it with foil to make cleanup easier.
2. Dry and Season the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick and get a nice crust. In a small bowl, mix together ranch seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush both sides of the pork chops with olive oil, then rub the seasoning mix evenly over all sides.
3. Bake the Pork Chops:
Place the seasoned chops in a single layer in the baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end—just keep an eye so they don’t burn.
4. Rest and Garnish:
Take the pork chops out of the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. While resting, spoon sour cream or ranch dressing over each chop. Sprinkle fresh thyme or parsley on top if you like.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your baked ranch pork chops with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete, delicious meal.
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes! Boneless pork chops work well and usually cook a bit faster, so check for doneness around 15-20 minutes to avoid overcooking.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to maintain juiciness.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Season and bake the pork chops, then cool and refrigerate. Reheat just before serving, adding fresh sour cream or ranch dressing on top.
What Can I Substitute for Ranch Seasoning Mix?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning, mix dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create a similar flavor.
