If you crave a homey, crowd-pleasing meal that combines comforting flavors with a cheesy, tangy twist, the Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops Recipe is exactly what you need in your dinner rotation. These tender, juicy pork chops are coated in a creamy ranch sauce, topped with melty cheddar cheese, and baked to bubbly perfection. It’s a simple yet unbelievably satisfying dish that never fails to impress, thanks to that perfect balance of sharp cheddar and savory ranch seasoning that hugs every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with the Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops Recipe means gathering just a few simple ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the rich creaminess of sour cream and cheddar to the robust tang of ranch seasoning and the perfect sear you get from olive oil, every component plays a key role in delivering that irresistible flavor and texture.
- 4 boneless pork chops, about 1 inch thick: Choose well-marbled chops for juicy, tender meat.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps create a beautiful sear locking in moisture and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing the natural taste of the pork.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle bite and depth to the seasoning.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix: The star seasoning that brings bold, tangy herbs and spices.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: For that golden, gooey cheesy topping that makes this dish unforgettable.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Creates a luxuriously creamy base for the ranch sauce.
- 1/4 cup milk: Lightens the ranch mixture to just the right consistency.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory profile with mild garlic warmth.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, herbaceous touch and vibrant color when garnishing.
How to Make Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 375°F and lightly greasing a baking dish large enough to hold the pork chops in one layer. This setup ensures even cooking and that the cheese topping will melt beautifully across each chop.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Pork Chops
Pat your pork chops dry, then season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully sear the chops for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, aiming for a golden-brown crust that seals in all the juice. Once nicely browned, transfer them to the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheddar Ranch Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the ranch seasoning mix, sour cream, milk, and garlic powder until you get a smooth, creamy sauce. This mixture is what makes the Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops Recipe so delectably rich and flavorful.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Spread the ranch sauce evenly over each pork chop, making sure to coat them generously. Then, pile a heaping amount of shredded cheddar on top—don’t be shy! Bake the chops, uncovered, for 25 to 30 minutes until they’re cooked through and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and turning a beautiful golden brown around the edges.
How to Serve Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops Recipe
Garnishes
Once baked, your Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops are ready to serve, but garnishing them with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness that balances the richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
These pork chops shine brightest alongside classic comfort sides like creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables such as asparagus or green beans. Their subtle flavors complement the bold, cheesy ranch topping without competing with it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops over a bed of buttery rice or even on top of a fresh salad to enjoy a lighter but still satisfying meal. You can also sprinkle crispy cooked bacon on top before baking to add an irresistible smoky crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops left, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They maintain their flavor and juiciness well when properly cooled and sealed.
Freezing
This recipe freezes nicely if you want to prep ahead. Wrap each pork chop tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen chops will stay good for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the pork chops in a low oven (about 300°F) or microwave. Cover them loosely to keep the cheese from drying out, and heat until warmed through, around 10-15 minutes depending on your method.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in pork chops for this Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops Recipe?
Absolutely! Bone-in chops add a bit more flavor but keep in mind they may need a few extra minutes baking time to reach the perfect tenderness.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy ingredients with alternatives like vegan sour cream and dairy-free cheddar to accommodate dietary needs, though the flavor and texture will vary slightly.
Can I prepare the ranch sauce mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the ranch sauce up to a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. This actually allows the flavors to meld beautifully before baking.
What temperature should I cook pork chops to ensure safety?
The USDA recommends cooking pork chops to an internal temperature of 145°F followed by a 3-minute rest, which results in juicy, tender meat.
Can I add other herbs or spices to enhance the flavor?
Feel free to experiment with smoked paprika, thyme, or even a pinch of cayenne for a little extra kick to personalize the Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops Recipe.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops Recipe, it may quickly become one of your favorite weeknight go-tos. With its effortless prep, rich creamy sauce, and melty cheddar topping, it’s a truly comforting dish perfect for sharing with family and friends. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a dinner that feels like a warm hug in every bite!
Print
Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Cheddar Ranch Pork Chops are a delicious and easy-to-make dinner perfect for busy weeknights. Juicy boneless pork chops are seared to perfection, then baked covered with a creamy ranch sauce and melted cheddar cheese. The savory flavors of ranch seasoning combined with garlic and cheddar make this a comforting and satisfying meal, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Ingredients
Pork Chops
- 4 boneless pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Ranch Sauce
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley, optional for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the pork chops in a single layer to prevent sticking.
- Sear the pork chops: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the pork chops with salt and black pepper. Place them in the skillet and sear each side for 2 to 3 minutes until they develop a light golden-brown crust.
- Transfer to baking dish: Move the seared pork chops from the skillet into the prepared baking dish, arranging them in a single layer for even cooking.
- Prepare ranch sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the ranch seasoning mix, sour cream, milk, and garlic powder until smooth and well combined.
- Apply ranch sauce and cheese: Spoon the ranch mixture evenly over each pork chop, making sure to coat the tops fully. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top of the ranch-covered chops.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until the pork chops are fully cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F) and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden around the edges.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and optionally sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add cooked crumbled bacon on top of the pork chops before baking.
- Bone-in pork chops can be used but may require an additional 5-10 minutes of baking time to ensure they are cooked through.
- Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
