Alabama Tuscaloosa Grilled Pork Chops on Arteflame

Introduction

These Alabama-style Tuscaloosa grilled pork chops are packed with Southern flavor and grilled to perfection on the Arteflame. A bold, spice-marinated chop is seared on the high-heat center grill grate to lock in juices, then brought to perfect doneness on the flat cooktop. This method ensures a juicy, tender pork chop with an incredible sear. Pair them with fresh sides grilled on the flat top for a complete meal cooked outdoors.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in pork chops (1 to 1.5 inches thick)
• 2 tbsp butter (melted)
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
2. Place them in the center of the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
4. Ignite the paper to start the fire.
5. Let the grill heat for about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop reaches desired temperatures.

Step 2: Prepare the Pork Chops

1. In a bowl, mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Coat pork chops with mustard and apple cider vinegar.
3. Evenly apply the spice rub and let the pork chops marinate for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Sear the Pork Chops

1. Place the pork chops directly onto the center grill grate at 1,000F.
2. Sear for 1-2 minutes per side until a deep crust forms.
3. Move the chops to the flat cooktop to continue cooking.

Step 4: Cook to Perfection

1. Place chops on the flat griddle cooktop in a medium heat zone.
2. Cook 3-4 minutes per side, flipping once, until they reach an internal temperature of 130F.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove pork chops from the grill at 130F.
2. Let them rest for 10 minutes while carryover cooking brings them to 145F.
3. Drizzle melted butter over the chops before serving.

Tips

• Always use a meat thermometer for precise doneness.
• Trim excess fat to prevent flare-ups.
• For extra smoky flavor, use hickory or oak wood.
• Let the chops sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before cooking.
• Baste with butter in the final minutes for extra richness.

Variations

1. Spicy Cajun: Replace smoked paprika with Cajun seasoning and double the cayenne.
2. Honey Glazed: Add 2 tbsp honey to the spice blend for a sweet caramelized crust.
3. Garlic Herb: Mix chopped rosemary and thyme into the seasoning mix.
4. Apple Bourbon: Marinate in apple cider and bourbon before applying the rub.
5. Mustard BBQ: Brush with Alabama white BBQ sauce before serving.

Conclusion

These Alabama Tuscaloosa grilled pork chops showcase bold Southern flavors and juicy, flame-kissed perfection, all thanks to the Arteflame grill. Searing over high heat before finishing on the flat cooktop ensures the best texture and taste. Try different variations to mix up the flavors and pair with your favorite grilled sides.

Best Pairings

• Grilled sweet potatoes with cinnamon butter.
• Charred Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze.
• Grilled corn on the cob with chili lime butter.
• Smoky baked beans straight from the flat top.
• Classic Alabama white sauce for dipping.