Traeger Smoked Pork Chops - Or Whatever You Do

Recipe FAQ

Can the inside of pork chops be pink?

Yup! It can be slightly pink in the middle and still be safe to eat.A few years ago, the USDA said having a little pink in the middle is alright. I love a juicy boneless pork chop, so the end to the dry pork chop was something I really could get on board with.Some people aren't fans of pork chops because their only experience with them has been overcooked, dry pucks of well-done chops. Perhaps a bad experience in a battle between your teeth and the tough, dry meat.Let this slow-cooked pork chop be the pork chop to change your mind. I have heard even the pickiest eaters praise this simple old fashion technique.In the past, if your chops seemed too dry, it was because they were a lean cut. They tend to cook pretty quickly and are prone to overcooking. The instructions to cook these low and slow is the key.Cooking these on the Traeger brings out an amazing BBQ flavor you can't get without a live wood fire.

What is the best seasoning for pork chops?

For this particular recipe, I used Spiceology's Chipotle Garlic Blend. It is INCREDIBLE, and I'd highly recommend ordering the big size cause you are going to want this on everything. You can find a link to that in the recipe card in my Recommended Products section.If you don't have Spiceology rub and want to make this now, you can use your favorite rub or mix up some of my homemade all-purpose bbq rub, which will be delicious.

What size pork chops should you buy?

You can buy whatever thickness of pork chop you prefer, but the thicker the chop, the longer it'll need to get up to temp. I prefer 1-inch thick pork chops for smoking but have also had some incredible thick-cut bone-in pork chops.

Do you need to tenderize pork chops?

You do not need to, but you can. If you want them to be extra tender, try marinading them. Placing the pork chops in a zip-lock bag with something as easy as some olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce would do the trick.

Dijon Pork Chops