These Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops are a tasty way to enjoy dinner! Juicy pork chops are coated in a yummy mix of cheddar cheese and ranch seasoning that makes each bite extra special.
Honestly, who doesn’t love the combo of cheese and ranch? It’s like a party on your plate! Serving these with some veggies or potatoes is a great way to make it even better.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for this recipe because they stay juicy and flavorful. If you can only find boneless chops, they will work too, but adjust the cooking time to prevent them from drying out.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. If you’re in the mood for something milder, feel free to use medium cheddar or even mozzarella. Just keep in mind it will alter the flavor profile a bit!
Ranch Seasoning Mix: If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can mix dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder to create your own blend. Some people even use a combination of Italian seasoning, which can give a nice twist!
Oil: For cooking, I prefer olive oil for its flavor and health benefits, but vegetable or canola oil work perfectly fine too!
How Do I Get That Perfect Crust on My Pork Chops?
Creating a great crust on your pork chops is all about the searing technique! Here’s how to do it:
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the oil. A hot pan helps achieve that nice golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If your skillet is too crowded, the chops will steam rather than sear. Cook them in batches if needed.
- Press the chops into the coating firmly, making sure it sticks well before searing. This helps create a thicker crust.
- Leave the chops undisturbed while searing for 3-4 minutes on each side for best results—flipping them too often can prevent proper browning.
Following these tips will give your Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops a delicious, crunchy texture that complements the juicy meat beautifully!
Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Pork Chops: 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Seasoning: 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
- Spices: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Oil: 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- Garnish: Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes for cooking, including searing and baking. Perfect for a quick dinner that still feels special!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven or Skillet:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) if you plan to finish the chops in the oven. If you’d rather cook them entirely on the stovetop, just ready your skillet.
2. Mix the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together well—you’re making a tasty coating for your chops!
3. Season the Pork Chops:
Use a paper towel to pat the pork chops dry, ensuring they’re not too wet. Lightly season both sides with salt and pepper. This extra layer of flavor goes a long way!
4. Coat the Chops:
Take each pork chop and press it firmly into the cheese and ranch mixture, making sure both sides are well coated. This will create a delicious crispy layer when cooked.
5. Heat the Skillet:
Pour 2 tablespoons of olive oil into a large oven-safe skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. You want the oil hot but not smoking!
6. Sear the Pork Chops:
Carefully place the coated pork chops into the hot skillet. Sear each chop for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until the coating is golden brown, creating a lovely crust.
7. Finish Cooking:
If your skillet is oven-safe, transfer it to the preheated oven and bake for another 8-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). Alternatively, reduce the heat to medium, cover the skillet, and cook on the stovetop for another 7-10 minutes until done. Make sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked perfectly!
8. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, take the pork chops out of the skillet and let them rest for about 3-5 minutes. This resting period will help keep the juices inside the meat.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if you’d like, and serve your delicious Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops warm. They’ll pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a crisp salad!
Enjoy your cheesy and flavorful Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops that are sure to impress your family and friends!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind that they may cook faster, so start checking for doneness a few minutes earlier to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Ranch Seasoning?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning on hand, you can create your own mix using a combination of dried herbs such as dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder. Adjust to taste!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pork chops by coating them in the cheddar-ranch mix a few hours in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop to keep them crispy, rather than in the microwave to avoid sogginess.
