How to Cook Pork Chops on Pellet Smoker: Terrific Tips Inside?

By Avi Green September 20, 2023

Cooking pork chops on a pellet smoker can seem daunting, but it is truly a life-changing experience that will take your culinary skills to the next level. For kitchen professionals, understanding the nuances of using a pellet smoker to prepare pork chops can be both rewarding and delicious. In this article, we will walk through the remarkable steps to achieve perfectly smoked pork chops that are juicy and full of flavor.

Pork chops are favored for their versatility, yet cooking them properly requires careful attention to detail. If you are ready to delve into the world of pellet smoking, read on for a comprehensive guide on how to cook pork chops on pellet smoker.

Choosing the Right Pork Chops

Before lighting up your pellet smoker, its crucial to select the right cuts of pork chops. Bone-in pork chops generally provide better flavor and moisture than boneless. Opt for thick cuts, as they tend to cook more evenly and retain juiciness. Look for marbling the lines of fat running through the meat as this contributes flavor during the smoking process.

Preparing the Pork Chops

Once you have chosen the perfect pork chops, it's time to prepare them for the smoker. Here are some key steps:

Brining: Soak the chops in a brine solution of water, salt, sugar, and spices for at least 30 minutes. This adds moisture and infuses flavor.
Seasoning: After brining, rinse off the chops, pat them dry, and apply your favorite seasoning rub. A combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika works well.
Letting Them Rest: Allow the seasoned pork chops to rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before smoking. This helps in even cooking.

Setting Up Your Pellet Smoker

Now that your pork chops are prepped, its time to set up your pellet smoker. Follow these tremendous tips to ensure the best outcome:

Choosing the Right Pellets: Utilize hardwood pellets like hickory, apple, or mesquite to complement the smoke flavor of the pork chops.
Preheating: Preheat your smoker to a steady temperature, usually between 225F to 250F. This low and slow method ensures tenderness.

Smoking the Pork Chops

With everything set up, lets dive into the shocking process of smoking the pork chops:

Placement: Place the pork chops directly on the grill grates. Make sure there's adequate space between them for airflow.
Monitoring Temperature: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chop. You're aiming for an internal temperature of 140F for medium.
Time: Smoking generally takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the thickness of the chops and the smoker's temperature.

Finishing Touches

Once your pork chops have reached the desired internal temperature, its time for the final touches:

Resting: Remove the pork chops from the smoker and let them rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute.
Serving: Slicing the pork chops against the grain ensures tenderness. Serve with your choice of sides, such as smoked vegetables or potato salad.

Cleaning Up the Smoker

After an enjoyable meal, it's essential to clean your pellet smoker to maintain its performance:

Cooling Down: Allow the smoker to cool down before cleaning.
Cleaning Grates: Use a grill brush to clean the grates while they are still warm.
Empty Ashes: Regularly empty the ash pot to ensure even heat distribution during future cooks.