Grilled Pork Chops with Crispy Bacon Crumbles and Blue Cheese

Introduction

These Grilled Pork Chops with Crispy Bacon Crumbles and Blue Cheese are an explosion of flavor with each bite. The combination of smoky, juicy pork, crispy bacon, and creamy blue cheese creates a rich and satisfying main dish. Using the Arteflame grill enhances the flavor with its high-heat sear and even cooking zones, making it an ideal method for achieving both texture and flavor in these chops.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1.5 inches thick)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Grill

Light the Arteflame grill by placing three vegetable-oil-soaked napkins inside and stacking firewood over them. Light it up and let it heat for about 20 minutes until the center grate reaches around 1,000°F.

Step 2: Season and Grill the Pork Chops

1. Pat the pork chops dry, then season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Melt 1 tbsp butter on the center grill grate. Sear the pork chops on this high-heat center for 2-3 minutes per side to get a beautiful crust.
3. Move the pork chops to the outer cooktop zone and continue cooking until they reach an internal temperature of 135°F. They will continue to cook slightly after removing from the grill.
4. Remove from the grill and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble with Bacon and Blue Cheese

1. Sprinkle crispy bacon crumbles and blue cheese over each pork chop while they’re resting. The residual heat from the chops will slightly soften the cheese, creating a creamy texture.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh chives for color and added flavor.

Step 4: Serve

Serve the pork chops hot with your choice of sides. The combination of smoky pork, crispy bacon, and creamy blue cheese is irresistibly delicious.

Tips

• For maximum flavor, let the pork chops sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before grilling.
• Grill the bacon on the cooktop until crispy and cut it into small pieces.
• Avoid overcooking to keep the pork juicy and tender.

Conclusion

These Grilled Pork Chops with Crispy Bacon and Blue Cheese are indulgent, full-flavored, and ideal for any grill night. The Arteflame grill’s heat control zones allow you to achieve the perfect sear and doneness. Paired with roasted vegetables or a crisp salad, this dish is sure to be a hit.

Variations

1. Pork Chops with Bacon and Gorgonzola: Swap blue cheese for gorgonzola for a milder taste.
2. Honey-Blue Cheese Pork Chops: Drizzle a little honey over the blue cheese for a sweet-savory balance.
3. Apple-Bacon Pork Chops: Add thin apple slices under the blue cheese for a fruity, tangy twist.
4. Garlic-Herb Blue Cheese Pork Chops: Add a bit of minced garlic and fresh thyme to the blue cheese topping.
5. Pork Chops with Bacon and Goat Cheese: Replace blue cheese with goat cheese for a creamy and tangy alternative.

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus or green beans
• Roasted sweet potatoes
• A simple arugula salad