When it comes to grilling, Traeger wood pellet grills have revolutionized backyard barbecues, delivering perfect results with the unbeatable flavor of wood-fired cooking. If you're craving tender, juicy, and flavorful pork chops, then using a Traeger grill is your best bet. At Fatty Butts BBQ, we’re passionate about delivering top-notch grilling tips, so here’s everything you need to know to create mouth-watering Traeger pork chops right in your own backyard.

Why Choose Traeger for Pork Chops?

Pork chops can be a tricky cut of meat to grill. The balance between achieving a flavorful char on the outside while maintaining a juicy, tender inside can be challenging. That's where the Traeger shines. It uses wood pellets to provide steady heat and natural smoke, which locks in the moisture and flavors of the pork chops. Plus, the consistent temperature control ensures that your pork chops won’t dry out—a common issue when grilling over direct heat.

Key Benefits of Cooking Pork Chops on a Traeger Grill:

1. Wood-Fired Flavor: Adds rich, smoky notes that enhance the natural flavor of pork.

2. Precise Temperature Control: Ensures even cooking and prevents overcooking.

3. Moist and Tender Results: The indirect heat gently cooks the meat, preserving moisture.

Best Types of Pork Chops for Grilling

Not all pork chops are created equal, and the type you choose can impact the final outcome. Bone-in chops generally hold more moisture and tend to have better flavor, while boneless chops are easier to eat and cook faster.

Here are some of the best types of pork chops to cook on your Traeger:

1. Rib Chops: These bone-in chops are cut from the rib section and have a high-fat content, making them juicy and flavorful.

2. Loin Chops: These come from the loin area and have a T-bone, with a tenderloin on one side and a strip of loin on the other.

3. Boneless Chops: Lean and versatile, these chops cook quickly but can dry out if not monitored closely.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Perfect Traeger Pork Chops

Ingredients:

1. 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1-inch thick)

2. 2 tablespoons olive oil

3. 2 teaspoons kosher salt

4. 1 teaspoon black pepper

5. 1 teaspoon garlic powder

6. 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

7. 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional for added sweetness)

8. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Traeger Grill

Set your Traeger to 225°F and let it preheat with the lid closed for about 10-15 minutes. Using a lower temperature allows the pork chops to soak up more of the wood-fired flavor before getting that final sear.

2. Season the Pork Chops

Rub both sides of the pork chops with olive oil. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and brown sugar. Generously season both sides of the pork chops with the spice mixture. For an added touch of freshness, throw in some chopped rosemary or thyme.

3. Smoke the Pork Chops

Place the seasoned pork chops directly on the grill grates and smoke them at 225°F for about 45 minutes to an hour. You want to cook them until the internal temperature reaches 110°F.

4. Crank Up the Heat

Once your pork chops have reached the desired internal temperature, remove them from the grill and increase the Traeger temperature to 450°F. This higher temperature will give your pork chops a beautiful sear and crispy outer crust.

5. Sear the Pork Chops

Place the pork chops back on the grill for an additional 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. This is the ideal temperature for juicy and perfectly cooked pork. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy to avoid overcooking.

6. Rest and Serve

Once your pork chops are perfectly cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is flavorful and tender.

7. Optional Finishing Touch

For an extra burst of flavor, finish the pork chops with a drizzle of honey glaze or a pat of herbed butter just before serving. You can also garnish them with freshly chopped parsley or thyme for added freshness and presentation.

Pairing Suggestions for Traeger Pork Chops

Pork chops are a versatile protein that pairs well with a variety of sides. At Fatty Butts BBQ, we love to serve our Traeger pork chops with classic barbecue sides, like:

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Slathered in butter and charred to perfection.

2. Smoked Baked Potatoes: Soft, smoky, and seasoned with salt, pepper, and sour cream.

3. Apple Slaw: A tangy, crisp salad that complements the richness of the pork chops.

These sides not only enhance the smoky flavors but also provide a satisfying, well-rounded meal for any barbecue occasion.

Pro Tips for Perfect Traeger Pork Chops

1. Use a Meat Thermometer: The key to juicy pork chops is hitting the right internal temperature. A meat thermometer ensures you don’t overcook or undercook your pork.

2. Rest the Meat: Always allow your pork chops to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps lock in the juices.

3. Experiment with Wood Pellets: Traeger offers a variety of wood pellets, each adding a different flavor profile. For pork chops, apple or cherry wood pellets work particularly well, imparting a sweet and mild smoke.

Conclusion

Grilling pork chops on a Traeger is an easy way to elevate your barbecue game and impress your guests. The wood-fired flavor, combined with the precision of Traeger’s temperature control, ensures that every pork chop comes out perfectly cooked—juicy, flavorful, and unforgettable. So fire up that Traeger grill, grab some pork chops, and get ready to wow everyone at your next barbecue!

At Fatty Butts BBQ, we’re all about helping you master the art of grilling. With our tips and recipes, you’ll be serving up delicious, perfectly smoked pork chops in no time!