Grilled Pork Chops with Gruyere Sauce

Introduction

These Grilled Pork Chops with Gruyere Sauce are the perfect blend of juicy, smoky pork and a rich, nutty cheese sauce. The Arteflame grill adds a robust flavor to the chops, while the creamy Gruyere sauce balances with its smooth and slightly sharp profile. This dish is great for a special dinner or weekend meal.

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1.5 inches thick)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for added flavor)

For the Gruyere Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Grill

Start by lighting the Arteflame grill. Place vegetable-oil-soaked paper napkins on the grill, stack firewood on top, and light it up. Allow 20 minutes for the grill to reach optimal temperature, with the center at around 1,000°F.

Step 2: Season and Grill the Pork Chops

1. Pat pork chops dry and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Place 1 tbsp of butter on the center grill grate. Once melted, place pork chops directly over the center for a high-heat sear, about 2 minutes per side.
3. Move the seared pork chops to the outer cooktop to cook through over a lower heat zone, until they reach an internal temperature of 135°F (they’ll continue to cook while resting).
4. Remove from the grill, add thyme sprigs on top for aroma (optional), and let rest for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Gruyere Sauce

1. On the outer edge of the flat cooktop, melt 1 tbsp of butter in a heat-safe container or small pan.
2. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
4. Add shredded Gruyere cheese and Dijon mustard, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and remove from heat.

Step 4: Serve

1. Plate each pork chop and generously spoon Gruyere sauce over the top.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

Tips

• Ensure your pork chops are at room temperature before grilling for even cooking.
• For a thicker sauce, allow the Gruyere sauce to simmer slightly longer before serving.
• Resting the pork chops after grilling helps retain juices and enhances tenderness.

Conclusion

Grilled Pork Chops with Gruyere Sauce make an impressive and mouthwatering meal. The creamy, slightly sharp Gruyere sauce perfectly complements the smoky, grilled pork chops. Pair this dish with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a memorable feast.

Variations

1. Mushroom Gruyere Sauce: Add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for an earthy flavor.
2. Herbed Gruyere Sauce: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the sauce for an aromatic touch.
3. Gruyere and White Wine Sauce: Add a splash of white wine for a lighter, tangy sauce.
4. Bacon Gruyere Sauce: Stir in crumbled bacon for an added smoky flavor.
5. Garlic-Parmesan Sauce: Swap Gruyere with Parmesan for a sharper, more intense cheese sauce.

Best Pairings

• Roasted garlic mashed potatoes
• Grilled asparagus or green beans
• Crusty bread to soak up the sauce