These Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops are juicy and packed with flavor! The cheesy topping with ranch seasoning makes them extra tasty and perfect for a busy dinner.
I love how quick they are to cook up! Just season, sear, and bake. You’ll have a hit meal that everyone will ask for again. Plus, they smell amazing while cooking!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops add extra flavor and juiciness. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops work just as well! Just keep an eye on the cooking time as they may cook a bit faster.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese gives a great tangy flavor. If you’re looking for something milder, use medium cheddar. For a twist, try pepper jack for some heat or a melty cheese like Monterey Jack.
Ranch Seasoning: A packet of ranch seasoning is super convenient. If you prefer homemade, mix dried herbs like dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder. This way, you can control the flavors!
How Do I Get My Pork Chops Perfectly Sear and Cooked?
Searing pork chops gives them a nice crust and locks in moisture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chops. This helps in forming a great sear!
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels for a better sear—this keeps them from steaming in the pan.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook them in batches if needed. Each chop should have space to sear properly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—pork is best when it reaches 145°F (63°C) internal temperature.
Following these steps will help you get beautifully cooked pork chops that everyone will love!
Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix (or 2 tablespoons homemade ranch seasoning)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes to cook. In less than 40 minutes, you’ll have delicious, cheesy pork chops ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, pat the pork chops dry with some paper towels. This helps them sear better.
2. Season the Pork Chops:
In a small bowl, mix together the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this seasoning mix generously over both sides of each pork chop. This will add tons of flavor!
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops to the pan. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
4. Add the Cheese:
After searing, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of each pork chop. This cheese will melt beautifully in the oven!
5. Bake to Perfection:
Now it’s time to bake! Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes. You want the internal temperature of the pork chops to reach 145°F (63°C), and the cheese should be melted and bubbly.
6. Let Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork chops rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat juicy. If you’d like, garnish with fresh chopped parsley or thyme before serving.
Enjoy your flavorful Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or steamed veggies! They are sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just remember they may cook faster, so start checking for doneness a couple of minutes earlier—around 5-7 minutes of searing and 6-8 minutes baking should suffice.
What If I Don’t Have Ranch Seasoning?
No worries! You can make a quick homemade version by mixing equal parts of dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder. This will give you a similar flavor profile!
How Can I Ensure the Pork Chops Stay Juicy?
The key to juicy pork chops is not overcooking them. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Also, letting them rest for a few minutes after cooking will help retain their juices.
Can I Store Leftovers? How Do I Reheat Them?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to avoid drying out. You can also microwave them on low power, checking frequently!
