Bookmark
Baked Ranch Butter Pork Chops are my go to for effortless weeknight dinners when I want something hearty and full of flavor but do not want to stand over the stove. Juicy pork chops bake in a buttery ranch sauce and come out incredibly tender with almost no work required.
This dish got me through an especially hectic week and now I crave the smell of baked ranch butter when I want pure comfort food
Ingredients
- Boneless pork chops: look for chops about one inch thick with some marbling for tenderness and adjust cook time if using thinner or thicker chops
- Unsalted butter: adds richness and helps the seasoning cling choose high quality butter for the best flavor
- Ranch seasoning: gives the pork its signature tang you can use store bought or a homemade blend for more control
- Fresh minced parsley: optional but brightens flavor and looks beautiful sprinkled on top use fresh if possible for best color
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pork Chops:
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels then arrange them in a nine by thirteen inch or similar sized baking dish spacing them apart so each gets cooked evenly
- Season and Butter:
- Sprinkle an even layer of ranch seasoning over each pork chop making sure to coat each one fully then top each chop with a generous pat of unsalted butter
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish on the center oven rack and bake at four hundred degrees Fahrenheit for fifteen to twenty minutes depending on thickness You want the internal temperature to reach one hundred forty five degrees Fahrenheit for juicy results
- Rest and Serve:
- Remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for five minutes This helps juices redistribute for maximum tenderness Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top if using and serve hot either with mashed potatoes rice or your favorite sides
The ranch seasoning is my secret weapon for this recipe My kids have so many happy memories gathered around the table devouring these pork chops on chilly nights which always makes the meal feel extra special
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days and can be frozen for up to three months Reheat gently in the oven covered with foil or in the microwave to keep them juicy
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap bone in pork chops just add more time when baking If you are out of ranch seasoning Italian seasoning with a pinch of garlic powder gives a nice twist and salted butter works if that is what you have but reduce any added salt
Serving Suggestions
Serve these pork chops on a bed of mashed potatoes to soak up the buttery sauce They are also delicious with rice buttered noodles or a big green salad For extra vegetables toss sliced onions or baby potatoes in the baking dish with the chops
Cultural and Historical Context
Pork chops have long been a staple in American home cooking combining simplicity and comfort Ranch seasoning is a nostalgic favorite and using it as a main flavoring in baked dishes like this brings together classic Midwest flavors in a modern way
Common Recipe Questions
- → What sides go well with ranch butter pork chops?
Classic pairings include mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, green beans, rice, egg noodles, or a crisp green salad.
- → How can I keep pork chops from drying out?
Brining in a saltwater solution for 30 minutes before baking helps retain moisture and prevents dryness.
- → What is the ideal thickness for pork chops in this dish?
Boneless pork chops about one inch thick work best. Adjust baking time for thinner or thicker pieces.
- → How to ensure pork chops are thoroughly cooked?
Use a meat thermometer and check for an internal temperature of 145°F, then let them rest before serving.
- → Why should pork chops be baked uncovered?
Baking uncovered allows for browning, a crisper surface, and concentrates the ranch butter flavor.
- → Can I customize the dish with add-ins?
Toss sliced onions, bell peppers, or baby potatoes in with the pork, or add red pepper flakes for heat.