Traeger Grilled Pork Chops are an ideal way to showcase thick, bone-in pork chops. Cooking them on a pellet grill adds a gentle smoky layer that enhances the meat’s natural flavor while keeping the chops tender and juicy. With a bold BBQ rub and high heat, you get a crisp, caramelized crust and a juicy center every time.
Traeger Grilled Pork Chops
These thick, bone-in pork chops cook hot and fast on a pellet grill for a quick weeknight dinner or an easy backyard meal. A generous BBQ rub—think paprika, garlic, and a touch of brown sugar—brings out the pork’s richness, while the pellet grill delivers subtle smoke without drying the meat. The result is a beautiful contrast between a crisp, seasoned exterior and a moist, flavorful interior.
No long marinades or complicated prep are needed. Just quality chops, a good rub, and high heat. This method is highly scalable, so it works whether you’re feeding a family or just a couple of people.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Pellet Grill Friendly – The Traeger provides consistent heat and a mild smoky finish.
- Fast Cook Time – From fridge to table in about 20 minutes.
- Juicy Every Time – Bone-in chops retain moisture and cook evenly.
- Big Flavor, Simple Prep – A bold rub is all you need—no long marinating required.
Recipe Shopping List
Here are the essentials you’ll need. For exact measurements, refer to the recipe card below.
- Thick Cut Bone-In Pork Chops – Choose chops 1 to 1.5 inches thick for best results.
- BBQ Rub – A sweet-smoky rub with paprika, garlic, salt, pepper, and a hint of brown sugar works beautifully.
How To Make This Recipe
The overview below gives a clear sense of the process. When cooking, follow the full recipe quantities and timing found in the recipe card.
- Preheat Grill – Heat the pellet grill to 450°F (232°C).
- Season Pork Chops – Pat chops dry and coat generously with your BBQ rub on all sides. Let sit for a few minutes at room temperature if you wish.
- Grill First Side – Place chops on the grill with the lid closed and cook for about 6 minutes.
- Flip & Finish – Turn the chops and cook another 6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Rest & Serve – Remove from the grill and let chops rest 5–10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
Serve This With
Classic and family-friendly: applesauce pairs perfectly with pork chops and is always a hit with kids. The sweetness and acidity balance the savory, smoky meat. Here are some side ideas that work especially well:
Side Dish Ideas
- Scalloped potatoes or au gratin potatoes for a rich, comforting plate.
- Roasted garlic mashed potatoes for a smooth, savory accompaniment.
- Grilled or roasted asparagus to add bright, crisp greens.
- Loaded smoked baked potatoes for an indulgent option.
- A simple Greek salad to add fresh, acidic balance.
More Traeger Recipes
- Smoked beef roast — low-and-slow for tender pulled beef.
- Beef jerky — homemade and cost-effective.
- Smoked salmon — richer flavor when done at home.
- Smoked bacon — deep flavor from smoking and finishing in the oven.
- Smoked beef tenderloin — an elegant, flavorful main course.
- Reverse seared flank steak — a special treat that’s family-friendly.
More Pork Chop Recipes
- Dijon pork chops
- Grilled pork chops with Guinness barbecue sauce
- Creamy mushroom pork chops
- Traeger brown sugar pork chops
- Blackstone pork chops
- Grilled teriyaki pork chops
- Grilled marinated pork chops
Traeger Grilled Bone-in Pork Chops
Traeger Grilled Pork Chops make the most of thick bone-in chops: quick to prepare, full of smoky flavor, and reliably juicy.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
- 6 thick cut bone-in pork chops
- Generous amount of BBQ rub (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat pellet grill to 450°F (232°C).
- Season pork chops generously with BBQ rub on all sides.
- Place chops on the grill and close the lid. Cook about 6 minutes per side.
- Cook until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from heat and let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Serving Suggestions
- Use an instant-read thermometer for the most accurate doneness check.
- Let the meat rest to keep juices locked in—this improves texture and flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
- Try variations by swapping the rub: add lemon-pepper for brightness or brown sugar and chili powder for a sweeter, spicier crust.
Nutrition Information (approximate)
Calories and nutrition will vary by chop size and rub used.