Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a flavorful, yet easy-to-make meal that the whole family will love? Then look no further! This Pork Chop Ranch Dressing recipe is your answer. It’s a quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, and surprisingly healthy. Get ready to experience a burst of flavor in every bite, thanks to a simple yet incredibly effective marinade and cooking method. This recipe is a testament to how delicious homemade cooking can be, even with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This simple mixture forms the flavorful marinade that tenderizes and enhances the pork chops' taste.
Marinating the Pork:
- Place the pork chops in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the ranch dressing mixture over the chops, ensuring they are fully coated. For best results, marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat thoroughly.
Cooking the Pork Chops:
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Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated pork chops to the hot skillet. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary for even browning.
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Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), using a meat thermometer for accuracy. This ensures that your pork chops are cooked through and juicy.
Serving Suggestions:
- Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired. Serve these delicious pork chops with your favorite sides – mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad all complement this dish beautifully.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the pan temperature and result in steamed, rather than seared, pork chops. Cook in batches to maintain a high heat.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most reliable way to ensure your pork chops are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to add more or less garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to suit your preferences.
Variations:
- Spicy Ranch: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Herb-infused Ranch: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano for an added layer of flavor.
- Lemon-Herb Ranch: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the marinade for a bright and zesty twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This simple Pork Chop Ranch Dressing recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. It's a flavorful, healthy meal that's perfect for busy weeknights, and a great example of delicious dishes achievable through homemade cooking. Enjoy!