Get ready to elevate your grilling game with these mouthwatering Cedar Plank Pork Chops! Imagine tender, juicy pork infused with a delightful smoky flavor, all thanks to the magic of cedar planks. Perfect for summer barbecues or a cozy family dinner, this recipe not only impresses with its taste but also its simplicity. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a dish that will have your guests raving and begging for seconds. Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and discover how to make your next meal unforgettable!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1 cedar plank
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Soak the cedar plank in cold water for at least 1 hour before grilling to prevent burning and create a smoky flavor. Ensure the plank is fully submerged.
- Remove pork chops from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F). Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Pat pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better seasoning adherence and searing.
- Brush pork chops with olive oil on both sides, then generously season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the soaked cedar plank on the preheated grill for 3-4 minutes until it starts to smoke and become fragrant.
- Carefully place seasoned pork chops onto the smoking cedar plank, ensuring they are not overlapping.
- Close grill lid and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until internal temperature of pork chops reaches 145°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove cedar plank with pork chops from grill and let meat rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Soak the Cedar Plank: Don’t skip soaking the cedar plank for at least an hour before grilling. This prevents it from burning and enhances the smoky flavor that permeates the pork chops.
- Room Temperature Chops: Take the pork chops out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking. Allowing them to reach room temperature ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy.
- Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F) before placing the cedar plank on it. This helps create that perfect sear and smoky aroma.
- Dry and Season Well: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help the seasoning stick better and promote a nice crust during grilling.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the internal temperature of the pork chops. They should reach 145°F for optimal juiciness. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure perfect doneness.
- Let It Rest: After grilling, let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful bite.
- Garnish for Presentation: For an extra touch, garnish your pork chops with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. Not only does it enhance the flavor, but it also adds a beautiful pop of color to your dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 285kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 80mg
