Have you ever had one of those days where everything just feels… off? Like, you’re craving something hearty but nothing too complicated—because, let’s be honest, who has the energy for a kitchen marathon after a long day at work or, you know, just life in general? That’s when I stumbled upon this Easy Baked Ranch Pork Chops recipe. It’s like a little culinary hug, seasoned with the kind of flavor that makes you think of the coziness of fall leaves crunching underfoot or the smell of rain on a summer day.
Picture this: succulent pork chops, infused with the tangy, herby goodness of ranch dressing, baked to perfection. They’re like the cozy sweater of meals—inviting and warm. Plus, they cook up in a flash, leaving you more time to binge-watch that series everyone’s been raving about or finally finish that book gathering dust on your nightstand. And, oh, the aroma that fills your kitchen—it’s a blissful escape from the chaos of daily life.
One time, I made these for a last-minute dinner with friends, and they were devoured so quickly that I barely had time to blink. So, whether you’re an experienced cook or someone who considers boiling water a culinary achievement, these pork chops are here to save the day. Give them a try, and who knows, they might just become your new favorite comfort food too.
Steps
- Begin by setting your oven to a preheat temperature of 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a small bowl, combine the Hidden Valley® Original Ranch® mix with salt, pepper, and paprika until well blended.
- Generously coat both sides of the pork chops with the seasoning mixture, ensuring even coverage.
- Place the seasoned chops on a baking sheet or tray with a rack, and bake for 20 minutes, flipping once during cooking.
- Check that the internal temperature of the pork reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit, then serve the chops immediately.
Ingredients
- 1 (1 ounce) packet of ranch seasoning mix
- 6 pork loin rib chops, approximately 1 inch thick
- Paprika, a dash (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1260 | Total Fat: 60g | Saturated Fat: 24g | Cholesterol: 420mg | Sodium: 534mg | Total Carbohydrate: 0g | Protein: 168g | Vitamin C: 0mg | Calcium: 36mg | Iron: 6mg | Potassium: 2418mg
FAQ
- What ingredients do I need for Original Ranch® Pork Chops?
- You will need a packet of Hidden Valley® Original Ranch® Salad Dressing & Seasoning Mix, six pork loin rib chops (approximately 1 inch thick), a dash of paprika, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.
- How do I make sure the pork chops are cooked properly?
- Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F and bake the pork chops for about 20 minutes, turning them once. They should be browned and have an internal temperature of 160 degrees F.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Yes, this recipe can be gluten-free if you ensure that all packaged ingredients, such as the ranch mix, are certified gluten-free. Always check the labels for gluten content.
- What nutritional information is available for this dish?
- Each serving contains approximately 210 calories, 10g of fat, 28g of protein, and 0g of carbohydrates. Nutrient values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
- Any tips to enhance the flavor or texture of the pork chops?
- Some users suggest adding parmesan cheese to the ranch mix for extra flavor. If the chops turn out dry, consider reducing baking time or adding a marinade beforehand.
Tips
- Ensure the pork chops are about 1 inch thick for even cooking and to prevent them from drying out during baking.
- Consider adding Parmesan cheese to the seasoning mix for an extra layer of flavor.
- To achieve a crispy texture, use a baking tray with a rack, allowing air to circulate around the pork chops.
- Regularly check the internal temperature of the pork chops with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; aim for 160 degrees F.
Equipment
- Oven thermometer (to ensure accurate oven temperature)
- Baking sheet with a rack (for proper air circulation and even cooking)
- Instant-read meat thermometer (to check for proper internal temperature of 160 degrees F)
