Nebraska Pork Chops - Juicy Grilled Perfection

Introduction

Sink your teeth into these thick-cut Nebraska pork chops, seasoned with a bold, savory spice blend and grilled to juicy perfection. Using the Arteflame grill, we achieve a mouthwatering steakhouse-quality sear at 1,000°F before finishing them on the flat cooktop for maximum tenderness. Every bite is packed with rich, smoky flavor and locked-in juices, making this a must-try recipe for pork lovers.

Ingredients

• 4 thick-cut bone-in pork chops
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil onto three paper napkins and place them in the center of your Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins and light the paper.
3. Allow the grill to heat for about 20 minutes until the center grate reaches 1,000°F and the flat cooktop is hot.

Step 2: Season the Pork Chops

1. In a small bowl, mix the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and thyme.
2. Brush the pork chops with melted butter on both sides.
3. Rub the spice blend evenly over each pork chop.

Step 3: Sear the Pork Chops

1. Place the pork chops directly on the center grill grate.
2. Sear for 2 minutes per side to create a deep, flavorful crust.

Step 4: Finish on the Flat Cooktop

1. Move the seared pork chops to the flat cooktop.
2. Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 130°F.
3. Remove from the grill and rest for 5-10 minutes. The temperature will rise to a perfect 145°F.

Tips

• Always let the meat rest before cutting to retain its juices.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the perfect doneness.
• The outer edge of the cooktop provides a gentler heat if needed.

Variations

1. Maple Glazed: Brush the pork chops with maple syrup in the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet and savory bite.
2. Garlic Herb: Add minced garlic and rosemary to the butter for a delicious herbaceous twist.
3. Spicy Cajun: Swap the cayenne for a Cajun seasoning blend for a Louisiana-style kick.
4. Honey Mustard: Combine Dijon mustard and honey for a tangy glaze.
5. BBQ Smoked: Brush with a smoky BBQ sauce as they finish on the cooktop.

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus with butter
• Smoky roasted sweet potatoes
• Charred corn on the cob with garlic butter
• Grilled apples with cinnamon
• A bold red Zinfandel or a crisp apple cider

Conclusion

These Nebraska pork chops, grilled to absolute perfection on the Arteflame grill, deliver a sensational balance of smoky, crispy crust and juicy, tender meat. The reverse-sear technique ensures every bite bursts with flavor, making it a show-stopper meal your friends and family will love!