Sometimes during the week you need an easy meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. These Traeger Blackened Pork Chops deliver big taste with minimal fuss—perfect for a midweek dinner that will satisfy the whole family.
Traeger Blackened Pork Chops
These blackened pork chops are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor from a Cajun-style blackening seasoning. The combination of a well-balanced spice mix and pellet grill smoke creates a deeply flavored crust that contrasts beautifully with the moist pork inside. This recipe is straightforward, dependable, and adaptable—use your favorite blackening rub or make one at home for true control over heat and salt.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Bold, smoky flavor – The blackening seasoning and pellet grill smoke create a savory, slightly charred crust that’s deeply satisfying.
- Quick and easy – Minimal prep time and a short grill session make this ideal for busy evenings.
- Juicy and tender – Cooking to the right internal temperature and allowing the meat to rest keeps the chops moist.
- Versatile – Serve with pasta, rice, vegetables, or salads for a range of meal options suitable for casual family dinners or weekend gatherings.
Recipe Shopping List
Here’s a simple shopping list to get started. For precise quantities and the printable recipe card, see the recipe section below.
- Pork chops – Choose chops about 1 inch thick for consistent cooking; bone-in or boneless both work.
- Cajun or blackening seasoning – A ready-made blend or homemade mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne, and black pepper.
- Salt – Enhances and balances the flavors.
- Black pepper – Adds a complementary bite to the seasoning.
How To Make This Recipe
This overview gives the essential steps so you know what to expect. Follow the full recipe instructions to get the best results.
- Preheat your pellet grill to 375°F (190°C) following the manufacturer’s guidelines for safe operation.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Generously season both sides with blackening seasoning, then lightly season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Place the seasoned chops on the grill grates, close the lid, and grill for 7–8 minutes.
- Flip the chops and continue grilling. Use a grill-safe thermometer or probe in the thickest part of a chop and cook until the internal temperature reaches about 140–142°F (60–61°C), remembering the meat will carryover cook slightly after removing it from the heat.
- Remove the chops from the grill and let them rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
Recipe FAQ
Cooking time varies based on chop thickness, whether the chop is bone-in, and your grill temperature. Instead of relying on time alone, use an instant-read or wireless thermometer and cook to the recommended internal temperature. Aim to remove the chops at about 140–142°F and let them rest to reach the safe final temperature of 145°F. Resting for 5–10 minutes prevents dry meat and yields a juicier result.
Boneless loin chops are convenient and cook quickly, while bone-in chops can deliver slightly more flavor and a meatier presentation. Either works for this recipe—just watch the temperature closely to avoid overcooking.
Blackening seasoning is a classic choice here, offering a smoky, spicy crust. If you prefer something milder, try a simple rub of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. A homemade BBQ rub or a touch of brown sugar can also create a delicious caramelized exterior when grilled.
Serve This With…
These pork chops pair well with a wide range of sides. For a comforting plate, serve with buttered pasta or creamy fettuccine. For a lighter option, try basmati rice or a herby salad. Roasted or grilled vegetables add color and texture—brussels sprouts, zucchini, or a mixed veggie tray are all great choices. Finish the meal with a simple dessert like a vanilla custard or a fruit-based treat if you like.
Traeger Blackened Pork Chops
Delicious blackened pork chops cooked on a pellet grill. Juicy, smoky, and bursting with flavor—ideal for an easy family meal.
Ingredients
- 6 pork chops
- ¼ cup blackening seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your pellet grill to 375°F following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Season pork chops on both sides liberally with blackening seasoning and finish with salt and pepper.
- Place chops on the grill and close the lid. Grill for 7–8 minutes, then flip.
- Insert a grill-safe thermometer into the center of a chop and continue cooking until the center reaches 140–142°F.
- Remove the chops and rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield: 6 | Amount per serving:
Calories: 333 · Total Fat: 18g · Saturated Fat: 6g · Cholesterol: 132mg · Sodium: 3175mg · Carbohydrates: 1g · Fiber: 1g · Protein: 40g