# Oven Baked Ranch Pork Chops: A Fast and Tasty Weeknight Delight
These oven baked ranch pork chops provide a delicious and simple-to-prepare meal that combines tender meat with a savory, mildly tangy taste. Ideal for hectic weeknights or meal prepping, this dish calls for just a few ingredients and minimal effort, making it a favorite among many home chefs.
## Flavor Profile
The pork chops receive a coating of ranch seasoning mix, delivering an unforgettable taste. The mix of savory and tangy flavors ensures that each bite is enjoyable and delectable.
## Skill Level
This recipe is suited for beginners, needing only pork chops, seasonings, and a baking sheet. Cleanup is easy, particularly if you cover the sheet with aluminum foil.
## Recommended Tools
A meat thermometer is crucial for verifying that the pork chops are cooked just right. They should hit an internal temperature of 160°F at the thickest section to confirm they are safe for consumption.
## Easy Ingredients
1. **Pork**: Choose pork loin rib chops, which are perfect for baking and often affordable. Select chops that are around 1-inch thick for ideal cooking.
2. **Ranch Seasoning Mix**: You can create your own ranch seasoning or buy a ready-made mix. Make sure it’s a seasoning blend, not a dip or dressing. For an extra kick, think about using a spicy ranch mix or adding cayenne pepper.
3. **Dijon Mustard**: This serves as a binder for the seasonings and aids in forming a juicy sauce for the chops. Alternatives include sweet hot mustard or stone-ground mustard.
4. **Variations**: Elevate the dish by including sliced potatoes, carrots, mushrooms, onions, or broccoli in the pan, ensuring that all pieces are cut to similar sizes for even cooking.
## Cooking Tips
– Cover your baking sheet with aluminum foil for hassle-free cleanup.
– If you add vegetables, toss them with some additional seasoning for more flavor.
– Allow the pork chops to rest for approximately 5 minutes post-baking to let the juices redistribute, keeping them moist and tender.
## Storing Leftovers
Keep any remaining ranch pork chops in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For extended storage, freeze them in zippered bags for as long as 4 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. They can be enjoyed cold on a salad or in a wrap, or warmed up in the microwave.
## Recipe Overview
### Ingredients
– Pork loin rib chops (1-inch thick)
– Ranch seasoning mix
– Dijon mustard
### Cooking Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F and prepare a baking sheet with foil.
2. Dry the pork chops with paper towels and place them in a bowl.
3. Add Dijon mustard and toss to coat. Incorporate ranch seasoning, paprika, and pepper.
4. Arrange the chops on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 16–20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 140°F. Allow to rest for 5 minutes.
6. (Optional) Broil on high for 2 minutes for a crispy finish.
### Nutritional Information (per serving)
– Calories: 211
– Protein: 29g
– Fat: 9g
– Carbohydrates: 0.4g
– Sodium: 111mg
This oven baked ranch pork chop recipe is not only swift and straightforward but also rich in flavor, making it an excellent choice for your weeknight dinner lineup. Enjoy!