This Easy Ranch Pork Chops and Potatoes Sheet Pan Dinner is a real winner! Juicy pork chops and tender potatoes come together, all flavored with zesty ranch seasoning. Yum!
You just toss everything on one pan, bake it, and voilà—dinner is served! I love how this saves me both time and cleanup. It’s perfect for busy nights! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: You can use either bone-in or boneless chops. I like bone-in for extra flavor, but boneless cooks faster. If you need a leaner option, consider pork loin or skinless chicken breasts.
Potatoes: Baby yellow potatoes are perfect for this dish because they cook evenly. If you don’t have these, try baby red potatoes, Yukon Gold, or even sweet potatoes for a twist.
Ranch Seasoning: Store-bought ranch seasoning is super convenient! If you prefer to make your own, mix dried herbs like dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley. That way, you can control the flavors and use fresh herbs if you have them.
Olive Oil: Olive oil works well, but feel free to substitute with melted butter, avocado oil, or even vegetable oil if you’re looking for something more budget-friendly.
How Do I Ensure the Pork Chops Are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking pork chops just right can be tricky. Here’s how to monitor doneness:
- Use a meat thermometer! Aim for 145°F (63°C) for juicy, tender pork.
- Let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping them moist.
- Flip the chops halfway through baking. This helps them cook more evenly and develop a nice crust.
By following these tips, you’ll have delicious, perfectly cooked pork chops every time!
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 yellow potatoes, halved or left whole if small
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or thyme (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious sheet pan dinner can be prepared in about 10 minutes, and it bakes for 25-30 minutes. In total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature is perfect for perfectly cooked pork and crispy potatoes. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the baby potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1/2 tablespoon of ranch seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the potatoes are evenly coated for the best flavor. Spread them out in a single layer on one half of the sheet pan.
3. Season the Pork Chops:
Now, in the same bowl (no need to clean it), add the pork chops. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and sprinkle on the remaining ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasonings into the pork chops for great flavor. Place the chops on the other half of the sheet pan.
4. Bake Everything Together:
Pop the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Check that the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the potatoes are tender and beautifully golden. Halfway through, flip the pork chops and stir the potatoes to ensure even cooking.
5. Crisp It Up (Optional):
If you like your pork chops and potatoes a little crispy, switch to broil mode for an extra 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on them during this time to avoid burning!
6. Rest and Serve:
Once finished, take the sheet pan out of the oven and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes. This step is important for juiciness! Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if you want to add a pop of color.
7. Enjoy:
Serve hot and dig into this hearty, flavorful sheet pan meal. It’s easy, delicious, and there’s minimal cleanup afterward!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Vegetables Besides Potatoes?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile. You can swap out baby potatoes for other veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so check for doneness accordingly!
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops in Advance?
Yes, marinating the pork chops in the ranch seasoning for a few hours or even overnight can enhance the flavor. Just remember to leave them out for a bit before cooking so they can come to room temperature for even cooking.
How do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use a microwave for quick heating. Adding a splash of water can help keep the moisture!
Can I Use Bone-in Pork Chops?
Yes, bone-in pork chops will work perfectly in this recipe! They may take a couple of extra minutes to cook compared to boneless ones, so just ensure you use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
