Mississippi Pork Chops are juicy and full of flavor, cooked with butter, ranch dressing mix, and pepperoncini peppers! It’s a simple yet delicious dish that brings a taste of the South to your table.
When I make these chops, my family can’t get enough! They always ask for seconds, and let’s be real, who can blame them? Just serve with some rice or mashed potatoes for a cozy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are ideal for this recipe as the bone adds flavor. If you only have boneless chops, they will work too, just reduce cooking time slightly.
Ranch Dressing Mix: This provides the unique flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can make a homemade version using dried herbs like dill, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Pepperoncini Peppers: These bring a nice tang. Can’t find them? You can substitute with banana peppers for similar taste or use jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Butter: Unsalted butter is used for control of salt levels. If you’re dairy-free, olive oil or a plant-based butter can be a good swap.
What’s the Best Way to Sear Pork Chops for Juiciness?
Searing pork chops is crucial for that perfect crust and to lock in juices. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with dry, room-temperature chops. This helps them sear better.
- Use a heavy skillet, preferably cast iron, and preheat it over medium-high heat until hot.
- Add cooking oil just before adding the chops to avoid burning.
- Let them cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; if you have more chops, cook them in batches.
Following these tips will ensure your chops are golden, flavorful, and perfectly juicy! Enjoy your cooking!
Mississippi Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix (dry)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6-8 pepperoncini peppers
- 1/4 cup pepperoncini juice (from the jar)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or dried parsley flakes (optional, for garnish)
- Cooking oil (such as vegetable or canola oil) for searing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 25-30 minutes total cooking time, including baking in the oven. Perfect for a quick, delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your pork chops cook evenly and nicely when they go in.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a beautiful sear. Season both sides of each chop with the ranch dressing mix and sprinkle the black pepper over them, making sure to coat thoroughly.
3. Sear the Chops:
In a large, oven-safe skillet (a cast iron skillet is great), heat a little cooking oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, letting them develop a golden-brown crust.
4. Add Butter and Peppers:
After searing, lower the heat to medium-low. Place a tablespoon of unsalted butter right on top of each pork chop. Then, scatter the pepperoncini peppers around the chops in the skillet—this will add awesome flavor!
5. Pour in the Juice:
Carefully pour the pepperoncini juice around the pork chops in the skillet. You’ll hear it sizzle, which is a fantastic sound! This juice will create a delicious sauce.
6. Bake the Chops:
Now, it’s time to transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the pork chops for about 15-20 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures they’re juicy and safe to eat!
7. Rest and Serve:
When the pork chops are done, take them out of the oven and let them rest in the skillet for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and keeps them juicy. Before serving, spoon some of the buttery sauce over the chops, and if you’d like, sprinkle with some parsley for a pop of color.
Enjoy your tender and flavorful Mississippi Pork Chops with your favorite sides for a delightful meal! They are sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops will work fine! Just be sure to reduce the cooking time slightly since they cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for about 10-15 minutes in the oven, checking for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you like some heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet along with the pepperoncini. This will give your dish an extra kick without overpowering the flavor!
What Should I Serve with Mississippi Pork Chops?
This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or even roasted vegetables. The sauce is fantastic for drizzling over your sides, so you can’t go wrong here!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
