Name: Baked Ranch Pork Chops
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 4 boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick; 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix (approximately 1 oz or 2 tablespoons if you're using homemade); 4 tablespoons of olive oil (or any oil of your preference); Salt and pepper, to taste; Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Welcome to my little kitchen, where I love sharing my culinary adventures and the joy of home cooking. Today, I’m thrilled to bring to your table a dish that has won my heart and become a staple in my recipe arsenal, especially on those evenings when I crave something comforting yet effortlessly delicious. I’m talking about the Baked Ranch Pork Chops recipe.

Table of Contents

What Is Baked Ranch Pork Chops?

Baked Ranch Pork Chops is a simple and flavorful dish where pork chops are seasoned with a ranch-style seasoning blend and baked in the oven until tender and juicy.

Ingredients:

4 boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick
1 packet of ranch seasoning mix (approximately 1 oz or 2 tablespoons if you’re using homemade)
4 tablespoons of olive oil (or any oil of your preference)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Preparing to Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your oven reaches the perfect temperature for baking the pork chops to juicy perfection.
Season the Pork Chops: Add the olive oil and ranch seasoning mix in a large mixing bowl or a resealable plastic bag. Blend well until you have a smooth mixture. Season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper to your liking, then add them to the bowl or bag, ensuring each chop is evenly coated with the ranch mixture. Let them marinate for about 10 minutes. If you have time, marinating them for an hour or more in the refrigerator will enhance their flavor even further.
Baking: Arrange the pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking. Spread any remaining ranch mixture over the top of each chop. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the pork chops are cooked through (the safe internal temperature for pork is 145°F or 63°C when checked with a meat thermometer).
Resting: Once done, remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring your pork chops will be tender and juicy.
Serve: If desired, garnish the pork chops with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes. Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad work beautifully with the creamy ranch flavor.

Tips for Perfect Baked Ranch Pork Chops:

Thickness Matters: Ensure your pork chops are approximately the same thickness to promote even cooking.
Marination Magic: If time allows, marinate the pork chops for an hour or more to deepen the ranch flavor.
Don’t Overcrowd: Arrange the pork chops in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure they cook evenly.
Checking Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops have reached the safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Rest Before Serving: Allowing the pork chops to rest after baking and before cutting into them is crucial for retaining their juiciness.

What To Serve With

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and fluffy, garlic mashed potatoes are a perfect match for the savory flavors of ranch pork chops. Simply boil your potatoes until tender, mash them with garlic, butter, and cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste. The richness of the potatoes complements the herbed pork chops beautifully.
Buttered Green Beans: Try crisp green beans sautéed lightly in butter with a pinch of salt for a more nutritious side. The simplicity of green beans balances the rich flavors of the pork chops while adding a pop of color to your plate.
Coleslaw: A classic coleslaw, made with shredded cabbage and carrots mixed with a creamy mayonnaise dressing, adds a crunchy texture and slight tang to your meal, cutting through the richness of the pork chops.
Roasted Asparagus: Tossed in olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper and roasted until tender-crisp, asparagus is a healthful and elegant side dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. The subtle earthiness of asparagus pairs well with the bold flavors of ranch seasoning.
Herb Roasted Potatoes: Chop some potatoes into cubes, toss them with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper, and roast until golden brown. This aromatic and crispy side dish enhances the comforting feel of the ranch pork chops.
Apple Sauce: For sweetness, serve your pork chops with apple sauce. The mild sweetness of the apple sauce complements the pork’s savory notes, making for a harmonious dish.
Rice Pilaf: A light and fluffy rice pilaf cooked with onions, garlic, and chicken broth adds sophistication to your meal. The mild flavors absorb the juices of the pork chops, ensuring each bite is as delicious as the last.
Dinner Rolls: Soft and warm dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any leftover ranch sauce on your plate. They are comforting, filling, and loved by everyone.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Corn on the cob, grilled until slightly charred and brushed with butter, makes for a deliciously sweet and smoky side that highlights the pork chops’ smoky flavors.
Cucumber Tomato Salad: A refreshing salad made with cucumber, tomato, onion, and a light vinaigrette can offer a crisp contrast to the meal, making it feel lighter but still satisfying.

Health Benefits

High-Quality Protein: Pork is a complete protein source, providing all nine essential amino acids for tissue growth and repair, immune function, and muscle maintenance. Eating a protein-rich meal such as Baked Ranch Pork Chops can help build and maintain muscle, which is particularly important for athletes and those involved in regular physical activities.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Pork is an excellent source of several B vitamins, including B1 (thiamine), B3 (niacin), B6, and B12, which are crucial for energy production, brain function, and red blood cell formation. It also provides essential minerals such as phosphorus, selenium, and zinc. Selenium, in particular, is an antioxidant that plays a critical role in metabolism and thyroid function, while zinc supports the immune system.
Lower in Fat and Calories: Baking pork chops instead of frying reduces the fat and calories in the meal, as it requires less oil or butter. Choosing lean cuts of pork and trimming any visible fat can further help maintain a diet lower in saturated fat and cholesterol.
Promotes Satiety and Weight Management: Pork chops are rich in protein, which is known for its satiating properties. Consuming a protein-rich meal like Baked Ranch Pork Chops can help you feel full longer, possibly leading to reduced calorie intake over the day, which can benefit weight management.
Heart Health: Baked Ranch Pork Chops can be part of a heart-healthy diet when prepared with little to no added salt and served with heart-friendly sides like vegetables or whole grains. The key is to balance the meal with fiber-rich foods that can help manage cholesterol levels.
Improved Mood and Brain Function: The range of B vitamins found in pork chops is good for physical and mental health. B vitamins have been linked to improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety. The presence of amino acids like tryptophan can also aid in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, sleep, and memory.
Versatility for Healthier Recipes: The base recipe of Baked Ranch Pork Chops can be modified to include various healthy herbs and spices instead of pre-packaged ranch seasoning, which may contain additives and higher sodium. Using fresh ingredients allows you to receive more natural nutrients without unnecessary additives, making it healthier.

Final Thoughts

Baked Ranch Pork Chops are more than just a delicious dinner option; they boast many health benefits that make them a worthwhile addition to your meal rotation. From being an excellent source of high-quality protein to delivering vital nutrients like B vitamins and minerals such as selenium and zinc, pork chops can play a pivotal role in a balanced diet.

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