Smothered Pork Chops on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

These smothered pork chops are juicy, tender, and covered in a rich, savory onion gravy. Using the Arteflame grill allows you to achieve a perfect sear and then finish the chops in a luscious sauce, resulting in a comfort food classic that’s both easy and delicious.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk (for a lighter version)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Light the Arteflame grill by placing three oil-soaked paper napkins in the firebox, stacking firewood on top, and lighting. Let it heat for about 20 minutes until the center grate is extremely hot, ideal for searing.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Pork Chops

2. Season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper, then dredge them lightly in flour, shaking off any excess.
3. Sear the pork chops on the center grill grate for about 2-3 minutes per side, creating a golden crust. Move them to the cooler flat cooktop griddle to finish cooking while you prepare the gravy.

Step 3: Make the Onion Gravy

4. Melt the butter in a skillet on the flat cooktop and add the sliced onion, sautéing until caramelized and golden, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the garlic and thyme, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the pork chops to enhance the gravy’s flavor.
7. Add the heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce (if using), stirring until the gravy thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Smother the Pork Chops

8. Place the seared pork chops back onto the griddle in the gravy, spooning the onions and sauce over each chop to coat them fully.
9. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the pork chops are cooked through and the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

10. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Spoon extra gravy over each pork chop for maximum flavor.

Tips

• Gravy consistency: If the gravy becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to thin it out.
• Avoid overcooking: Pork chops can dry out quickly, so monitor them closely, aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F.
• Resting time: Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving to ensure they stay juicy.

Conclusion

These smothered pork chops are hearty, comforting, and full of flavor, making them an easy go-to dish for any night. The Arteflame grill adds a smoky touch that pairs perfectly with the savory onion gravy.

Variations

1. Mushroom and Onion Gravy: Add sliced mushrooms to the onions for an earthy twist.
2. Spicy Smothered Pork Chops: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the gravy for some heat.
3. Apple and Onion Gravy: Add thinly sliced apples with the onions for a sweet and savory combination.
4. Bacon and Onion Gravy: Cook chopped bacon with the onions for a smoky, rich flavor.
5. Garlic Herb Gravy: Add extra fresh thyme and rosemary for a more herbaceous sauce.

Pairing Suggestions

These smothered pork chops pair wonderfully with:

• Mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes
• Grilled asparagus or green beans
• A side of coleslaw or a simple green salad
• A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Noir