Mississippi Pork Chops are juicy, tender chops cooked in a zesty mix of ranch seasoning, pepperoncini, and butter. It’s a delicious flavor explosion in every bite!
Honestly, who can resist that buttery goodness? I love serving these chops with rice to soak up all those tasty juices. You’re going to want seconds—trust me! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are perfect for this recipe because the bone adds flavor and helps keep the meat juicy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use boneless chops, but monitor the cooking time, as they cook faster.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This seasoning is key for that signature flavor. If you don’t have it, you can mix dried herbs like parsley, dill, garlic powder, and onion powder to create a similar profile at home.
Pepperoncini Peppers: These little peppers add a nice tang. If you can’t find them, banana peppers work as a good substitute for a similar taste. For a little heat, you might try jalapeños or omit them if you’re not a fan of spice.
Unsalted Butter: I love using unsalted butter because it allows you to control the saltiness in the dish. You could also use olive oil or ghee for a different flavor profile, but the butter really gives it that rich taste.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
Getting tender and juicy pork chops can seem tricky, but it’s all about temperature and timing! Here’s how you can achieve it:
- First, make sure to pat the pork chops dry; this helps them sear nicely.
- Sear the chops on medium-high heat for 3-4 mins per side until golden brown. This step creates a delicious crust.
- Then, lower the heat to allow for gentle cooking, which keeps them juicy.
- Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 145°F (63°C). When in doubt, take them off a little early; they will continue to cook as they rest!
Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfect Mississippi Pork Chops every time! Happy cooking!
Mississippi Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6-8 pepperoncini peppers (with a little juice)
- Optional: cooked white rice or mashed potatoes, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 25-30 minutes to cook, making a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. You’ll love how quick and easy it is to create this flavorful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. If you’d like, sprinkle a little salt on both sides—just keep in mind that ranch seasoning tends to be salty! After that, season with black pepper for extra flavor.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops. Sear them until they’re golden brown, which should take about 3-4 minutes on each side. After they’re nicely browned, remove the chops from the pan and set them aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the ranch seasoning to the same pan. Toss in the butter. Stir everything together until the butter is melted and the seasoning becomes fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
4. Cook the Chops:
Now it’s time to return the pork chops to the skillet. Nestle the pepperoncini peppers around the chops, and pour a little juice from the jar over everything for added moisture and flavor.
5. Finish Cooking:
Cover the skillet and let it cook on low heat for about 10-15 minutes. The goal is for the pork chops to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C); this will ensure they’re cooked through yet still tender and juicy.
6. Serve Up:
Before serving, don’t forget to spoon that rich, buttery sauce and the flavorful pepperoncini peppers over the chops. It’s the perfect finishing touch! Serve this dish hot over a bed of cooked white rice or mashed potatoes to enjoy the delicious sauce.
Enjoy your savory, tangy, and buttery Mississippi Pork Chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just be aware that they may cook faster, so keep an eye on them and aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure they’re juicy and tender.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love the heat, try adding sliced jalapeños or using spicy ranch seasoning in place of regular ranch. You can also increase the amount of pepperoncini you use if you enjoy that tangy spice!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can season and sear the pork chops ahead of time, then refrigerate them. When you’re ready to cook, just follow the sauce instructions, add the cooked chops, and finish with the remaining cooking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, ensuring it reaches a safe temperature. Enjoy the delicious sauce again!