This easy ranch pork chops and potatoes sheet pan dinner is a winner! Juicy pork chops are baked with tender potatoes, all flavored with zesty ranch seasoning. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend using bone-in pork chops for extra flavor and juiciness, but boneless work just fine too. If you prefer a leaner option, try chicken breasts or thighs instead. They will absorb the ranch flavor beautifully!
Baby Potatoes: Baby potatoes have a lovely creamy texture when cooked. If they’re not available, you can switch to regular potatoes—just chop them into similar-sized pieces. Sweet potatoes could also work for a sweeter touch!
Ranch Seasoning: The ranch seasoning is key for flavor! If you don’t have a packet, you can make your own with dried herbs like dill, parsley, onion powder, and garlic powder. It’s a fun way to customize the taste!
Olive Oil: Olive oil is great for roasting, but feel free to use vegetable, canola, or avocado oil if that’s what you have on hand. They all work well in this recipe.
How Do You Get the Pork Chops to Turn Out Juicy?
Keeping your pork chops juicy comes down to cooking them correctly. Here are a few tips:
- Use a meat thermometer. When the internal temperature hits 145°F (63°C), take them out. Letting them rest afterward allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them tender.
- Don’t crowd the pan. Make sure the pork chops and potatoes have space between them. This ensures even cooking and browning.
- Consider marinating. If time allows, marinate the chops in some olive oil and ranch seasoning for a few hours or overnight for added flavor.
With these tips and ingredient suggestions, your ranch pork chop dinner will be delicious and stress-free! Enjoy every bite!
Easy Ranch Pork Chops and Potatoes Sheet Pan Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) ranch seasoning mix (or 2 tablespoons homemade ranch seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy sheet pan meal takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes to cook in the oven, totaling around 40 minutes to get this delicious dinner on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important to get those pork chops and potatoes cooking perfectly. While the oven heats up, you can prepare your pan.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a large mixing bowl, add the halved or quartered baby potatoes. Pour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil, half of the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and some salt and pepper. Toss everything together until the potatoes are well-coated. Spread them in an even layer on one side of your lined or greased sheet pan.
3. Season the Pork Chops:
In a separate bowl, take your pork chops and rub them with the remaining olive oil. Then, sprinkle the other half of the ranch seasoning mix over both sides of the chops. Add a bit of salt and pepper if desired. This will give the chops a fantastic flavor!
4. Arrange on the Sheet Pan:
Place the seasoned pork chops on the empty side of the sheet pan next to the potatoes. Make sure there’s enough space between them so they cook evenly.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Slide the sheet pan into your preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You want the pork chops to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and for the potatoes to be tender and golden brown. If you want, you can give the potatoes a little toss halfway through cooking to help them roast evenly.
6. Optional: Crisp it Up:
If you like a crispy finish, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning—it’s worth it for that extra crunch!
7. Rest and Serve:
Once done, take the pan out of the oven and let the pork chops rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Then, it’s time to serve!
8. Add a Fresh Touch:
If you’d like, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious and easy sheet pan dinner with family or friends!
This meal is not only simple but also packed with flavor. It’s an excellent choice for any busy weeknight—you’ll love it!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the baby potatoes for other root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or even Brussels sprouts. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Try adding a splash of broth or water before reheating to keep it moist!
What Should I Serve with This Sheet Pan Dinner?
This dish is great on its own, but if you want to add more sides, consider a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or some garlic bread. They all pair beautifully with the flavors of the ranch pork chops!
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Instead of Just Seasoning Them?
Yes! Marinating the pork chops for a few hours or overnight in a mixture of ranch seasoning, olive oil, and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice can deepen the flavor even more. Just don’t forget to pat them dry before cooking for a nice sear!
