From backyard BBQs on the weekend to weeknight variety, there’s never a bad time to enjoy pork chops. They’re a versatile cut that’s easy to prepare. Of all the different ways you can go about it, though, smoking pork chops is our favorite way to cook them.
We’ve been perfecting our smoked pork chops recipes for over a century now, and today, we’re going to pull the curtain back and reveal the secrets that make ours so special. We’ll share a few different recipes for smoked pork chops to try along with tips on how to smoke pork chops.
Whether you prefer the classic take on smoked pork chops or something spicy, we’re confident one of our recipes below will become your new favorite. But what if we told you that you could enjoy the tastiest chops that melt in your mouth without having to do any of the heavy lifting?
Here at Mahogany Smoked Meats we’ve already done the hard part of slow-smoking our chops to perfection. You can simply warm and enjoy! Learn more about our smoked pork chops for sale today.
Our Favorite Smoked Pork Chops Recipes
We’re not going to waste any time getting into our favorite smoked pork chops recipes. Let’s start with the basic take on smoking pork chops:
Classic Smoked Pork Chops
The straightforward seasoning used in this recipe lets the natural smoky flavor shine, which is why we recommend pairing this recipe with a really high-quality wood variety that imparts its own unique flavor. It’s a versatile choice for pairing with any popular smoked pork chop sides.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions:
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels.
- Mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika in a small bowl.
- Rub the seasoning evenly over both sides of the pork chops.
- Let the pork chops rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to absorb the seasoning.
Honey Glazed Smoked Pork Chops
Want something a bit more succulent? These honey-glazed smoked pork chops will leave your mouth watering long after you’ve finished the last bite.
The glaze caramelizes beautifully during smoking to bring out a sweet and tangy finish that enhances the smoky flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
Instructions:
- Whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and chili flakes in a bowl.
- Brush the pork chops with the glaze focusing on an even coat on both sides.
- Allow the pork chops to marinate in the glaze for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.
Spicy BBQ Smoked Pork Chops
There’s nothing like a spicy smoked pork chop recipe, and this one packs some heat. You’ll love the bold, smoky flavor that’s perfectly balanced by the sticky BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
- 4 thick-cut pork chops
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions:
- Combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and cumin in a small bowl.
- Rub the spice blend generously onto both sides of the pork chops.
- Brush the BBQ sauce over the pork chops during the last 20 minutes of smoking.
Herb-Crusted Smoked Pork Chops
We saved the best for last, as this is our go-to recipe for smoked pork chops. The fresh herbs provide an elevated, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich smokiness of the pork.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
- Mix olive oil, rosemary, thyme, parsley, and garlic in a small bowl to create a paste.
- Rub the herb mixture evenly over the pork chops.
- Let the pork chops rest for 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
How to Smoke Pork Chops: Step-by-Step Guide to Smoking Pork Chops
Finding the perfect recipe for smoked pork chops is one thing - bringing it to life is another story. We’ll walk you through how to smoke pork chops to perfection below.
Step 1: Selecting Bone-in vs Boneless Pork Chops
The specific cut of meat you choose for smoking pork chops can make or break the end result. It goes without saying that you should source high-quality pork chops, ideally, from a local farm or butcher. But there are two different directions you can take from there:
- Bone-in Pork Chops: Rich, savory flavor due to the bone's contribution during smoking. They also retain more moisture, making them juicier. Ideal if you prioritize flavor and don’t mind slightly longer smoking times.
- Boneless Pork Chops: Easier to handle and quicker to cook. They’re leaner, too. They work well if you prefer convenience or a more uniform size for even cooking.
Either way, make sure you’re getting thick-cut chops (at least 1-1.5 inches thick) as this will help keep the meat tender and juicy throughout the smoking process.
Step 2: Preparing the Chops
Just like with a beef jerky marinade recipe, the preparation that goes into smoking beef jerky is key to bringing out the smoked pork chop recipe’s full potential.
Start by removing excess fat if you prefer your meals leaner, but know that this will come at the cost of flavor. We suggest leaving at least some marbling for maximum flavor.
Then you can start crafting your smoked pork chops recipe. Pat the meat dry with paper towels before seasoning as this will help retain spices. Use a dry rub for a crusty bark, or marinate the chops overnight for deeper flavor penetration.
As we touched on above in each of our favorite recipes for smoked pork chops, you need to let them marinate for at least 30 minutes before smoking. This ensures an even cook and helps the spices adhere better.
Step 3: Setting Up Your Smoker
The wood you use for smoking pork chops can be seen as just as important as the recipe you decide to try. As our name suggests, we use mahogany - but there are plenty of other options. Apple, cherry, or pecan are great choices. Steer clear of mesquite as it can overpower the meat.
Then you can begin pre-heating your smoker to 225°F. Low and slow is the way to go, as it will help the chops absorb a smoky flavor without drying out.
Start arranging the heat source on one side of the smoker, placing the chops on the cooler side. If you’re using a charcoal smoker it helps to add a water pan for moisture retention.
Speaking of moisture, we also recommend having a spray bottle of apple juice or a mix of apple cider vinegar and water handy. You’ll want to lightly mist the chops halfway through cooking to enhance flavor and maintain moisture.
Step 4: Smoking the Pork Chops
Now comes the fun part - learning how to smoke pork chops! Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Placement: Arrange the pork chops evenly on the grill grates, leaving space between each piece for even heat distribution.
- Monitoring Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Insert it into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding bone contact. Aim for 145°F for safe consumption (USDA recommended), or 150-155°F for slightly firmer, well-done chops
- Timing: Smoking pork chops typically takes anywhere from 1-1.5 hours depending on their thickness and whether they’re bone-in or boneless. Your meat thermometer will be the best way to figure out when they’re done.
- Glazing (Optional): Brush on a glaze (like honey, BBQ sauce, or maple syrup) during the last 20 minutes for a caramelized finish.
One common mistake we see people making in smoking pork chops is opening the smoker lid too frequently. We get it - you want to check on your chops and make sure you’re on the right track. But, this can cause temperature fluctuations. Be patient!
Step 5: Resting and Serving
Remove the pork chops from the smoker and tent them loosely with foil. Just like with resting a smoked turkey, we encourage you to let the chops sit for 5-10 minutes. This gives the juices a chance to redistribute.
Now you’ll need to carve up the chops. If you use bone-in chops, we recommend slicing along the bone for easier serving. Arrange the chops on a platter and pair them with complementary sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad.
Bon appétit!
Save Time and Stress While Enjoying the Tastiest Smoked Pork Chops Recipe at Mahogany Smoked Meats!
There you have it, how to smoke pork chops! This is a great skill to have in your culinary arsenal, and we hope these smoked pork chops recipes are a smash hit at your next dinner party or barbeque.
But like we said from the start, why not leave smoking pork chops to the experts at Mahogany Smoked Meats? You can kick back and relax, catch up with friends or family members, or focus on preparing the sides.
Perhaps most importantly, though, buying pre-smoked pork chops guarantees you’re going to leave your guests impressed. It’ll be our little secret that you didn’t smoke them yourself!
We’ve been slow-smoking meats to perfection since 1922, and while a lot has changed over the past century, our passion for doing things right is stronger than ever. Our chops smoke for 24 hours in a deep mahogany log pit.
We’re the only smokehouse that uses this variety, so you’re getting a truly one-of-a-kind flavor! The chops will arrive at your doorstep ready to warm and enjoy. You can use a grill, broiler or a pan. Either way, expect to be amazed!
We also have other varieties to round out your meal planning:
- Smoked turkey for sale
- Smoked sausage for sale
- Smoked boneless ham for sale
- Smoked bone-in ham for sale
- Smoked ham steaks for sale
- Smoked bacon for sale
From smoked pork chops to premium jerky, this is your one-stop shop for pre-smoked meat you’ll be proud to share with loved ones. With a satisfaction guarantee, what more could you ask for? Taste the difference a century can make today.
Wrapping Up Our Guide on How to Smoke Pork Chops
With so many unique smoked pork chops recipes at your fingertips, smoking pork chops can be a fun process that keeps your guests guessing with different flavor variations.
Whether you prefer classic seasonings, sweet glazes, or bold BBQ rubs, there’s a recipe to match every palate. And now that you know how to smoke pork chops, it’s time to put your skills to the test!
Our blog has more resources on how to cook smoked pork chops in air fryer, how to reheat pork chops, how to tell if pork chops are bad, how to smoke beef jerky, smoked sausage in air fryer, how to reheat a smoked turkey, how to cook smoked ham, and many others.
At this point, though, the only thing left to do is order the best smoked pork chops online and see how much simpler and more enjoyable cooking a feast for a group can be. Elevate your next meal with premium smoked pork chops crafted with care at Mahogany Smoked Meats!
