These juicy grilled pork chops topped with sweet balsamic caramelized pears make for a tasty meal! The combo of savory and sweet is sure to impress at dinner.
Can we just pause to appreciate how the pears add a fancy touch? It’s like giving your dinner a little upgrade without much effort. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend bone-in chops for more flavor and moisture. If you prefer boneless, that’s fine too! Just watch the cooking time as they may cook faster.
Pears: Choose ripe but firm varieties like Bosc or Anjou. If pears aren’t available, apples can make a great substitute. They also caramelize nicely!
Balsamic Vinegar: Use high-quality balsamic for the best flavor. For a different twist, try apple cider vinegar, but it will alter the flavor profile a bit.
Butter & Brown Sugar: This combo adds richness. You can substitute with coconut oil and coconut sugar for a dairy-free option!
How Do You Grill Pork Chops Without Overcooking Them?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky, but here are some tips to ensure they stay juicy:
- Always preheat your grill. This helps with searing the meat quickly and locking in moisture.
- Use a sturdy meat thermometer to check for doneness. Remove them at 145°F (63°C) for perfect juiciness.
- Let the pork chops rest after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping each bite moist.
Grilled Pork Chops with Balsamic Caramelized Pears
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for grilling
For the Balsamic Caramelized Pears:
- 2 ripe but firm pears, cored and sliced into wedges
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (plus more for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme)
- Optional: a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to cook. Plan for an additional 5 minutes of resting time for the pork chops. Altogether, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish. Quick and still quality!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
First, get your grill ready! Preheat it to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F/190-200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. This will help your pork chops grill perfectly.
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Grab some paper towels to pat the pork chops dry. This helps them get that lovely sear. Now, season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Rub them down with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, making sure they are well-coated.
3. Grill the Pork Chops:
Once your grill is hot, place the pork chops on it. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for them to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). After grilling, remove them from the grill and tent them loosely with foil. This helps keep them warm while they rest.
4. Prepare the Balsamic Caramelized Pears:
While the pork chops are resting, let’s whip up those delicious pear toppings! Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the unsalted butter. Make sure it melts and gets nice and foamy.
5. Add Brown Sugar:
Once the butter is melted, sprinkle in the brown sugar and stir to dissolve it. This creates a lovely sweet base for your pears!
6. Add the Pears:
Carefully add your pear wedges to the skillet. Sprinkle these tasty pieces with dried thyme and tuck the rosemary sprigs in with them for an extra blast of flavor.
7. Cook the Pears:
Cook the pears for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Spoon the buttery sugar mixture over the pears so they get evenly caramelized. You want them soft and tender, with a nice golden color.
8. Add Balsamic Vinegar:
Pour in the balsamic vinegar now, and let it bubble away for 2-3 more minutes. This liquid will reduce and create a delicious glaze coating the pears. If you like it a tad sweeter, drizzle some honey in there!
9. Finish Up:
Once the pears are coated and caramelized, remove from heat. Discard the rosemary sprigs to tidy up your dish a little bit.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Time to put it all together! Serve those juicy grilled pork chops topped or nicely plated with the balsamic caramelized pears. Don’t forget to garnish with a few fresh rosemary sprigs for a pop of color. Enjoy your delicious and elegant meal!
This recipe combines the savory flavor of pork with the sweetness of caramelized pears, making it a great option for a lovely dinner or a special occasion. Dig in!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! If you prefer boneless pork chops, just note that they will cook faster than bone-in ones. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook!
Can I Prepare the Pears in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the caramelized pears ahead of time. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet before serving to refresh their flavor!
How Do I Know When the Pork Chops Are Done?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Let them rest for about 5 minutes after grilling to ensure they stay juicy.
What Can I Serve With This Dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light salad. You could also serve it with some crusty bread to soak up the delicious balsamic glaze!
