This Easy Ranch Pork Chops and Potatoes Sheet Pan Dinner is as simple as it sounds! Juicy pork chops meet tasty potatoes, all seasoned with a zesty ranch flavor that makes dinner a breeze.
You can just toss everything on a pan, let it bake, and enjoy a yummy meal with minimal cleanup. Plus, who doesn’t love a one-pan wonder? It’s like magic! ✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in or boneless, both work well! I usually go for boneless because they cook faster. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, consider using chicken breasts or thighs instead.
Baby Potatoes: They are great because they cook quickly. If you can’t find baby potatoes, feel free to use regular potatoes, just cut them into smaller chunks to ensure they cook in the same time.
Ranch Seasoning: Store-bought is super convenient, but you can make your own with a mix of dried herbs (like dill and parsley) and spices (like garlic powder and onion powder). I love adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick!
Butter: It adds a nice richness. You can substitute with olive oil or even a dairy-free spread if you prefer a healthier option.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Stay Juicy?
To keep your pork chops juicy, a few steps matter. First, choose chops that are about 1 inch thick; this helps maintain moisture during cooking. Secondly, rub the seasoning and melted butter thoroughly over the chops for flavor and moisture.
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking, as this helps create that nice sear.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. You’re aiming for 145°F (63°C) to avoid overcooking.
- If you want even juicier chops, consider brining them beforehand in a saltwater mix, which helps with moisture retention.
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 lbs baby potatoes, halved or left whole if small
For Seasoning:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix or about 2 tbsp homemade ranch seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for smoky flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or thyme (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious sheet pan dinner will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to cook. Just set the oven, mix everything up, and let it bake while you relax. In total, you’ll be enjoying your meal in about 40-45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a large sheet pan and line it with parchment paper or grease it lightly. This will make clean-up super easy!
2. Season the Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the baby potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, half of the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Give everything a good mix so the potatoes are evenly coated, then spread them out on one side of the sheet pan.
3. Prepare the Pork Chops:
In the same bowl (no need to wash it!), rub the pork chops with the remaining ranch seasoning mix, melted butter, and the other tablespoon of olive oil. Make sure to coat both sides well—this will really enhance the flavor!
4. Place on the Sheet Pan:
Arrange the seasoned pork chops on the empty side of the sheet pan, making sure there’s some space between each chop for even cooking.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Slide the sheet pan into the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Check that the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and that the potatoes are golden brown and tender. If you love a crispy finish, broil it for an extra 2-3 minutes at the end!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take the sheet pan out of the oven. If you want, sprinkle some fresh parsley or thyme on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve it up hot and enjoy this tasty one-pan meal!
This easy sheet pan dinner combines tender, flavorful pork chops with crispy, ranch-seasoned potatoes for an effortless weeknight meal!
FAQ for Easy Ranch Pork Chops and Potatoes Sheet Pan Dinner
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed pork chops for even cooking. If your chops are frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or for a quicker option, place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water until thawed.
What Can I Use Instead of Ranch Seasoning?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can mix equal parts dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the seasonings to your taste for a similar flavor profile!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in some veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli alongside the potatoes. Just cut them into similar sizes for even cooking and adjust the cooking time as needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat to maintain the texture of the pork and potatoes.
