There’s something about grilling that evokes memories of summer evenings—perhaps it’s the sizzle of the meat or the smoky aroma wafting through the air. These BBQ pork chops, with their juicy interior and perfectly charred edges, are a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a backyard bash. Toss on your favorite playlist, feel the warmth of the grill, and let these chops steal the spotlight at your next gathering.
Steps
- Prepare the BBQ Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, mix all the barbecue sauce ingredients. Allow the mixture to reach a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
- Preheat the Grill: Turn on the grill to medium heat and ensure the grates are well-oiled to prevent sticking.
- Season the Pork Chops: Generously sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the pork chops to season them.
- Initial Grilling: Place the pork chops on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes. Flip the chops over and brush BBQ sauce over the tops and sides, then grill for another 5-7 minutes.
- Final Grilling and Basting: Flip the chops once more, applying BBQ sauce again to the tops and sides. Continue grilling for another 5-7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 140°F and the center is no longer pink.
- Resting the Meat: Remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest, covered, on a plate or cutting board for at least 5 minutes to ensure juiciness.
- Serve: Present the grilled pork chops with any remaining BBQ sauce on the side for additional flavor if desired. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients
- 4-6 thick-cut boneless pork chops
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 cup ketchup
- ? cup packed brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon mesquite seasoning (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper (reduce to 1/8 teaspoon if using ground pepper)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1728 kcal | Carbohydrates: 222 g | Protein: 120 g | Fat: 36 g | Saturated Fat: 12 g | Cholesterol: 360 mg | Sodium: 4476 mg | Potassium: 3402 mg | Fiber: 6 g | Sugar: 198 g | Vitamin A: 1230 IU | Vitamin C: 18 mg | Calcium: 270 mg | Iron: 6 mg
FAQ
- How long does it take to grill pork chops?
- Grilling these juicy pork chops will take about 20 minutes. If you’re using thin-sliced chops, expect them to cook in roughly 10 minutes. The goal is to allow sufficient time for the BBQ sauce to infuse and the pink center to disappear.
- How can I prevent pork chops from drying out on the grill?
- To keep pork chops moist, grill them over medium heat, turning them sparingly. Baste them with sauce and let them rest for at least 5 minutes before cutting, which helps retain their juices.
- What is the ideal grill temperature for pork chops?
- While my grill doesn’t have a precise temperature gauge, cooking over medium-high heat, turning a few times, and ensuring the meat reaches an internal temperature of 140°F at the thickest part is a reliable method.
- What type of pork chops should I buy for grilling?
- Boneless loin chops are recommended for grilling. They’re readily available at most grocery stores or butcher shops. For personalized thickness, ask your butcher to cut them to your preference.
- Can I make the BBQ sauce ahead of time?
- Yes, it’s advisable to prepare the BBQ sauce in advance or on the day of grilling. This avoids missing the optimal basting window, which can result in a dry and flavorless dish.
Tips
- Prepare the BBQ Sauce Ahead of Time: To ensure you don’t miss the perfect basting window, make the BBQ sauce in advance, ideally just before you start grilling or at least on the same day.
- Rest the Meat Post-Grilling: After removing the pork chops from the grill, let them rest covered on a plate or cutting board for at least 5 minutes. This step is crucial for maintaining their juiciness.
- Choose the Right Cut: Opt for boneless loin chops for the best results. These are readily available at most grocery stores, and you can request your preferred thickness from the butcher.
- Experiment with Seasoning: While not essential, try adding McCormick’s mesquite seasoning to the BBQ sauce for an enhanced flavor. Once you try it, you might want to use it for other dishes too.
Equipment
- Grill: If you don’t have an outdoor grill, consider a portable or tabletop grill.
- Meat Thermometer: Essential for ensuring the pork chops reach the correct internal temperature of 140°F.
- Grill Brush: Useful for oiling the grates and cleaning the grill.
- Basting Brush: For applying the BBQ sauce to the pork chops while grilling.
- Medium Saucepan: If you don’t have a suitable pan for making the BBQ sauce.
