Mississippi Pork Chops are a tasty mix of tender pork and a sweet, zesty sauce. Just pop them in the oven and let the flavors dance together!
These chops are so simple to make that even a kitchen newbie can impress! I love serving them with mashed potatoes to soak up that yummy sauce—heavenly! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are best for flavor and moisture. If you can’t find them, boneless chops will work, but watch the cooking time, as they may cook faster.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This adds a tangy boost. If you’re out, you can mix equal parts garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs like dill to create a homemade version.
Au Jus Gravy Mix: This gives the dish a rich flavor. You can substitute with beef broth and a touch of cornstarch for thickening if you prefer not to use a mix.
Pepperoncini Peppers: These provide a zesty and slightly spicy kick. If you like, try banana peppers or add fresh chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
Butter: Unsalted butter is great for controlling salt levels. If you’re looking for a healthier option, a less-fatty alternative like olive oil can replace some or all of the butter.
What’s the Best Way to Get Perfectly Sear Your Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops creates a delicious crust, sealing in moisture and flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with dry pork chops; pat them well to remove excess moisture.
- Heat oil in your skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring it’s hot before adding the pork.
- Place the chops in the skillet without crowding; if needed, sear in batches.
- Cook for about 3 minutes on each side for a golden-brown finish. Avoid flipping too soon!
Letting them rest after searing allows juices to redistribute for extra tenderness. Happy cooking!
How to Make Mississippi Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 ounce)
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix (about 0.8 ounce)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 4-6 pepperoncini peppers, sliced, plus juice from about 4 peppers
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: cooked rice or mashed potatoes, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time. You can have a delicious meal ready in about 40 minutes! Perfect for a weeknight family dinner or a cozy gathering.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your pork chops cook evenly and become perfectly tender.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to get a nice sear. Season both sides of the chops lightly with salt and pepper, making sure to cover them well.
3. Sear the Chops:
In a large ovenproof skillet (a cast iron skillet works wonderfully), heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear for about 3 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat.
4. Add Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the ranch seasoning and au jus gravy mixes. Sprinkle this flavorful mixture evenly over the seared pork chops in the skillet.
5. Add Butter and Peppers:
Slice your unsalted butter and spread it evenly over and around the pork chops. Next, add the sliced pepperoncini peppers and drizzle about 2 tablespoons of the pepperoncini juice over the chops to enhance the flavor.
6. Bake:
Now, it’s time to bake! Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. You want the pork chops to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), and the sauce should be bubbling around the edges.
7. Rest and Serve:
Once baked, take the skillet out of the oven and let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle and keeps them tender. Serve the Mississippi Pork Chops over cooked rice or mashed potatoes, spooning the pepperoncini-infused buttery sauce over the top.
Enjoy your flavorful, tender pork chops rich with the zesty kick of pepperoncini and savory gravy-like sauce! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just be aware they may cook faster, so check their internal temperature a little earlier to prevent them from drying out.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you want a milder flavor, reduce the number of pepperoncini peppers or omit them altogether. Alternatively, if you’re looking for more heat, add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! After searing the pork chops, transfer them to a slow cooker with the seasoning and butter. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until tender and infused with flavor.
What Are the Best Storage Methods for Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little liquid if needed to keep them moist.
