Baked Ranch Pork Chops are a simple and tasty meal that combines juicy pork chops with a crispy, flavorful ranch seasoning. The coating gets nice and golden in the oven, making each bite full of that classic ranch herb blend with a little extra crunch. It’s a dish that feels both homey and a little special without any fuss.
I love making this recipe because it’s quick to put together, especially on busy weeknights when I want something satisfying without a ton of prep. Using ranch seasoning mix means the pork chops get a great flavor boost without needing to measure a lot of spices, which makes this one of my go-to dishes when I want a break from the usual dinner lineup.
My favorite way to serve these chops is alongside some mashed potatoes and steamed veggies—simple sides that soak up the juices perfectly. Leftovers taste great too, whether reheated or sliced up in a sandwich the next day. If you’re looking for a recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort, this one’s definitely worth trying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great here because they stay juicy and add flavor. If you prefer boneless, that works too—just watch the cooking time as they can cook faster.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This is the flavor hero. You can use store-bought or homemade ranch seasoning if you want to control the salt or avoid additives.
Olive Oil: I like olive oil for its mild flavor and healthy fats, but you can use avocado oil or melted butter instead for a richer taste.
Garlic Powder & Smoked Paprika: These add depth and a smoky touch. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or chili powder works as a substitute.
How Do You Get a Juicy Pork Chop with a Crispy Ranch Crust?
Here’s the trick: first, pat your chops dry to help the seasoning stick and promote browning. Then, sear them in a hot skillet before baking. This locks in juices and creates a nice crust.
- Heat oil in an oven-safe skillet and sear pork chops 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer skillet directly to the oven to finish cooking. This method cooks chops evenly without drying out.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe, juicy pork.
- Let chops rest 5 minutes after baking so juices redistribute—this keeps them moist when you cut in.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe skillet – I recommend a cast-iron or stainless steel skillet because it heats evenly and can go straight from stove to oven.
- Meat thermometer – helps you check when the pork reaches the perfect juicy temperature of 145°F.
- Mixing bowl – for stirring together the ranch seasoning and spices easily.
- Paper towels – to pat the pork chops dry, which helps them brown nicely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pork chops for chicken breasts or thighs for a different protein that works well with ranch seasoning.
- Add a touch of grated Parmesan or shredded cheddar on top before serving for extra cheesy flavor.
- Mix in chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in the seasoning for a fresh herbal twist.
- Serve with a spoonful of creamy mushroom or Dijon mustard sauce for more richness.
Baked Ranch Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to bake. Including resting time, expect to spend about 30 minutes total from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready & Season
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat your pork chops dry with paper towels so the seasoning sticks better. In a small bowl, mix the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Coat the Chops
Rub both sides of each pork chop with olive oil. Then sprinkle the seasoning mix onto both sides, gently rubbing it in to cover evenly.
3. Sear the Pork Chops
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown.
4. Bake to Perfection
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) — juicy and safe to eat.
5. Rest and Garnish
Take the skillet out and let the chops rest for 5 minutes so the juices settle in. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving.
Enjoy your meal with mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or your favorite side dishes for a comforting and flavorful dinner!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that boneless chops cook a bit faster, so reduce the baking time by a few minutes and watch for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to avoid overcooking.
What If I Don’t Have Ranch Seasoning Mix?
No problem! You can make your own by combining dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried chives. This lets you customize the flavor and control the salt level.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep them moist.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can season and sear the pork chops ahead, then store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This saves time on busy days while still delivering great flavor.
