Mississippi Pork Chops are juicy, flavorful, and oh-so-tender! These chops are cooked with a buttery sauce and pepperoncini that gives them a little kick and lots of love.
It’s like a warm hug on a plate! I love how easy these chops are to make—just throw everything in the pot and let the magic happen. Perfect for a busy night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops give great flavor and stay juicy during cooking. However, you can use boneless pork chops if that’s what you have on hand. Just reduce cooking time a bit.
Ranch Seasoning: This is key for that classic flavor, but you can substitute it with homemade ranch mix or Italian seasoning if needed. Just mix equal parts of garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs.
Pepperoncini Peppers: They add a nice tang! If you can’t find them, sliced jalapeños or banana peppers work well as alternatives. Just remember, they’ll change the heat level a bit!
Butter: Unsalted butter gives a rich taste. You can use olive oil for a lighter option or vegan butter for a dairy-free version, though it won’t have quite the same richness.
How Do I Sear Pork Chops Perfectly?
Searing pork chops is essential for that delicious crust. Start by ensuring your skillet is hot enough before adding the pork. This step seals in juices and flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat for about 3-5 minutes. Add olive oil and let it shimmer.
- Carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Avoid crowding—they need space!
- Leave them undisturbed for 3-4 minutes before flipping. This helps develop a nice crust.
- Check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
This method gives you a golden exterior and juicy inside every time!
How to Make Delicious Mississippi Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 ounce)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 6-8 pepperoncini peppers, sliced (plus 2 tablespoons juice)
- 4 slices of pepper jack cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need approximately 15 minutes for prep and about 20-25 minutes for cooking, making it a quick and easy dish ready in around 40 minutes. Perfect for busy evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely. Next, rub both sides with olive oil to keep them moist and flavorful during cooking.
2. Season:
In a small bowl, mix the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt together. Sprinkle this seasoning evenly over both sides of each pork chop, making sure to coat them well.
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned pork chops and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a lovely golden-brown crust. After searing, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Make the Sauce:
Now, reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. Let it melt fully, then stir in any leftover ranch seasoning, sliced pepperoncini peppers, and the juice from the peppers. This creates a delicious zesty sauce!
5. Return Pork Chops to Pan:
Place the pork chops back into the pan, then spoon some of that tasty butter-pepperoncini sauce over the chops to keep them flavorful and moistened.
6. Add Cheese (optional):
If you’re using pepper jack cheese, now is the time to place a slice on top of each pork chop. This will add a creamy, spicy touch to the dish!
7. Simmer and Cook Through:
Cover the skillet with a lid and let the chops simmer for about 8-10 minutes. Check that the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), ensuring they are fully cooked and juicy. If you added cheese, it should be melted and gooey!
8. Serve:
To serve, spoon some extra sauce over the pork chops and garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions if desired. They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes or green beans for a complete meal!
Enjoy your tender, buttery Mississippi Pork Chops, bursting with flavor and a touch of tangy goodness from the pepperoncini!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! They may cook a bit quicker, so check for doneness around the 5-7 minute mark instead of 8-10 minutes.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can cut back on the amount of pepperoncini or omit them entirely. For more heat, add diced jalapeños or use spicy pepper jack cheese.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the seasoning and sear the pork chops in advance. Store them in the fridge and then complete the cooking process when you’re ready to serve. Just add a few extra minutes to reheat the chops.
What Should I Serve with Mississippi Pork Chops?
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a side salad for a fresh touch!