These tasty grilled pork chops are topped with sweet balsamic caramelized pears for a wonderful flavor mix. The juicy pork and soft, sweet pears make this dish feel special!
Who doesn’t love a little sweetness with their meat? I often pair it with a fresh salad to balance things out! 🎉 It’s easy to whip up and impress your guests.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I like using bone-in pork chops for extra flavor, but boneless chops work just as well. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use pork tenderloin instead. Just keep an eye on the cooking time since it’s thinner.
Pears: Choose ripe pears like Bosc or Anjou for sweetness and a tender texture. If pears aren’t available, apples can be a great substitute, bringing a nice crunch and a slightly different flavor profile.
Balsamic Vinegar: This ingredient adds depth and sweetness. If you can’t find balsamic vinegar, try using apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar mixed with a bit of honey for sweetness.
Thyme: Fresh thyme is my favorite for this recipe, but if you only have dried, remember that it’s more concentrated. Use half the amount suggested, and it will still give your dish great flavor!
How Do I Make Sure My Pork Chops Are Juicy?
Cooking pork chops can be tricky, but keeping them juicy is all about not overcooking them. Here are some tips:
- Start by seasoning well with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor and seal in moisture.
- Use medium-high heat for grilling; this ensures a nice sear while keeping the inside juicy.
- Use a meat thermometer! Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork.
- Let them rest after grilling. This helps redistribute the juices and keeps them tender.
By following these tips, you’ll have deliciously juicy pork chops every time! Enjoy cooking!
Grilled Pork Chops with Balsamic Caramelized Pears
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Balsamic Caramelized Pears:
- 2 ripe pears, cored and sliced into wedges
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total: 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and delicious dish that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures a nice sear on the pork chops when you put them on the grill.
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Generously season both sides of the pork chops with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over them, making sure to rub it in evenly for extra flavor and moisture.
3. Grill the Pork Chops:
Place the seasoned pork chops on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and have beautiful grill marks. Once done, take them off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes while you prepare the pears.
4. Sauté the Onions:
In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Sauté the sliced onions for about 5 minutes, or until they are soft and translucent.
5. Add the Pears:
Next, add the pear wedges to the skillet with the onions. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of thyme over them. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the pears start to soften and caramelize.
6. Create the Balsamic Glaze:
Pour in 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar and continue to cook while stirring. You want the mixture to reduce and thicken into a syrupy glaze that beautifully coats the pears and onions. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
7. Serve the Dish:
On a plate, place the grilled pork chops and generously spoon the balsamic caramelized pears and onions over the top. The sweetness of the pears pairs so well with the savory pork!
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you’d like, garnish your dish with a sprig of fresh rosemary for a lovely presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious meal!
This dish is fantastic with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad to balance the flavors. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Fruits for the Caramelized Topping?
Absolutely! While pears are delicious, you can substitute apples or even peaches. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as different fruits may caramelize at different rates.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any store-bought ingredients, like balsamic vinegar and brown sugar, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Can I Cook the Pork Chops in the Oven Instead of on the Grill?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and sear the pork chops in an oven-safe skillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Then transfer the skillet to the oven to cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until they reach the desired temperature.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops and Pears?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pork chops in a skillet and add a splash of water or broth to keep them moist, heating until warmed through.
