Introduction
Looking for a meal that’s delicious, filling, and super easy to make? This One-Pan Creamy Ranch Pork Chops and Potatoes recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. You only need one pan, a handful of ingredients, and less than an hour to get everything on the table. Plus, cleanup is a breeze!
Pork chops are juicy and flavorful, especially when baked with a creamy ranch sauce. Add in baby potatoes, and you’ve got a complete dinner that everyone in the family will love. Whether you’re a beginner cook or just want something simple, this recipe has got your back. Ready to cook? Let’s dive in!
Ingredients – Ranch Pork Chops and Potatoes
Here are the simple ingredients you’ll need for this dish:
For the Pork Chops and Potatoes:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (halved or quartered)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
For the Creamy Ranch Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 ounce)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional, for thicker sauce)
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish, optional)
Step by Step Process – Ranch Pork Chops and Potatoes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature helps the pork chops and potatoes cook evenly while keeping them juicy.
Step 2: Prep the Potatoes
Wash and cut your baby potatoes in half or quarters, depending on their size. Place them in a large bowl and toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 3: Sear the Pork Chops (Optional but recommended)
In a large oven-safe skillet or pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for about 2–3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step adds flavor but can be skipped if you’re in a hurry.
Step 4: Add Potatoes to the Pan
Push the pork chops to one side of the pan or remove them temporarily. Add the seasoned potatoes to the other side. Spread them out evenly so they cook properly.
Step 5: Mix the Creamy Ranch Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the heavy cream and ranch seasoning. If using, add in the cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Stir well until smooth.
Step 6: Pour the Sauce
Pour the creamy ranch sauce evenly over the pork chops and potatoes. Try to coat everything nicely, especially the chops.
Step 7: Bake the Dish
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F or 63°C) and the potatoes are tender.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is done, take the pan out and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy, savory, one-pan meal!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 580–620 kcal |
| Protein | 36g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Total Fat | 40g |
| Saturated Fat | 18g |
| Cholesterol | 135mg |
| Sodium | 850mg |
| Calcium | 150mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless?
Yes, you can. Bone-in chops might take a few extra minutes to cook, so just make sure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Q2: What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute half and half, evaporated milk, or even whole milk with a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken it. The sauce may not be as rich, but it will still be tasty.
Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep everything in the pan, cover it, and keep it in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Just add an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time if it’s going in cold.
Q4: Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely. You can swap the potatoes with carrots, green beans, or even broccoli. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes so they cook evenly.
Q5: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Q6: Can I freeze this dish?
It’s best eaten fresh, but you can freeze it. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Final Thoughts
This Easy One-Pan Creamy Ranch Pork Chops and Potatoes recipe is the kind of meal that makes life simpler and tastier. It’s easy to prepare, requires just one pan, and tastes like something you’d get from a nice restaurant. The creamy ranch sauce adds a comforting flavor, and the potatoes soak it up beautifully.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or just want a meal with minimal cleanup, this recipe delivers. Plus, it’s flexible—change up the veggies, make it ahead, or tweak the sauce to fit your style. So grab your pan, preheat that oven, and let the magic happen!
