Pork chops are a delicious and easy to prepare cut of meat, making them a great option for a quick meal. Pork chops can be grilled, baked, pan-fried, or even smoked. Smoking pork chops is a great way to infuse them with flavor and give them a unique taste that you can’t get from other cooking methods.
Smoking pork chops in an electric smoker is a great way to get started with smoking meat. Electric smokers are relatively easy to use and don’t require as much attention as other types of smokers. In this guide, we will give you step-by-step instructions on how to make smoked pork chops in electric smoker.
You can also check our articles on How to Cook Ribs on Electric Smoker, How to Make Jerky on Electric Smoker, Masterbuilt Electric Smoker Recipes, How to Make Electric Smoker Beef Brisket, How to Smoke Salmon in an Electric Smoker, and How to Smoke Baby Back Ribs in Electric Smoker.
How Thick do my Chops Need to be?
Pork chops can vary in thickness, but for smoking, you will want them to be at least 1-inch thick. This will help ensure that they don’t dry out during the smoking process. If your pork chops are thinner than 1-inch, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Types of Pork Chop Cuts
There are a few different types of pork chop cuts that you can use for smoking. The most common type is the rib cut, which has a bone running through it. This type of pork chop will take longer to smoke than other cuts because the bone will act as a heat conductor.
Another type of pork chop that is suitable for smoking is the loin cut. This cut of pork chop is boneless and leaner than the rib cut. It will also cook a bit faster since there is no bone to conduct heat.
The last type of pork chop that you can use for smoking is the tenderloin. This is the most tender part of the pig and is also the leanest. It will cook quickly and is the best option if you are looking for a leaner pork chop.
Brine for Pork Chops
Once you have decided on the type of pork chop you want to use, it’s time to brine them. Brining is a process where you soak the meat in a saltwater solution. This helps to improve the flavor of the meat and also keeps it moist during cooking.
To make a brine for pork chops, you will need:
1 cup of kosher salt
1 gallon of water
1 cup of brown sugar
4 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons of black peppercorns, crushed
1 bay leaf
Mix all of the ingredients together in a large container. Add the pork chops and make sure they are fully submerged in the brine.
How Long Should you Brine Pork Chops For?
You will want to brine the pork chops for at least 3 hours, but no longer than 12 hours. If you brine them for too long, the meat can become too salty. It is important to note that the longer you brine the pork chops, the saltier they will be.
Once the pork chops have finished brining, remove them from the solution and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Preparing the Smoker
Now that your pork chops are brined and ready to go, it’s time to prepare the smoker. Electric smokers typically have a water pan that you will need to fill with water. The water helps to create steam and keeps the meat moist during cooking.
Fill the water pan according to the instructions in your smoker’s manual. Once the water pan is in place, add wood chips to the smoker box. The type of wood chips you use will depend on your personal preferences.
Common types of wood chips for smoking pork include hickory, oak, apple, cherry, and maple. You can experiment with different types of wood to see what you like best.
Once the wood chips are in place, turn on the smoker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
How to Smoke Pork Chops?
When the smoker is up to temperature, it’s time to add the pork chops. Place the pork chops on the racks in the smoker and close the door.
What Temperature do you Smoke Pork Chops in an Electric Smoker?
Pork chops should be smoked at 225 degrees Fahrenheit. The cook time will vary depending on the thickness of the pork chops. However, smoking pork chops takes anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour.
Be sure to check on the pork chops periodically to make sure they are cooking evenly. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork chops. They are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
Once the pork chops are cooked through, remove them from the smoker and let them rest for 5 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
After the pork chops have rested, you can serve them with your favorite sides.
Masterbuilt Electric Smoker Pork Chops
Masterbuilt electric smokers are some of the most popular on the market. If you have a Masterbuilt electric smoker, you can use it to smoke pork chops with ease.
Dry-rubbed Pork Chops Recipe on Masterbuilt Electric Smoker
This recipe yields four servings and takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete.
Ingredients:
- 4 pork chops, bone-in or boneless
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
Step 1: Preheat the Electric Smoker
The first step is to preheat your electric smoker. Set it to 225 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Rub
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cumin, and chili powder.
Step 3: Rub the Chops
Next, rub the dry rub all over the pork chops. Be sure to get it into all of the crevices.
Step 4: Drizzle with Olive Oil
Once the pork chops are evenly coated with the dry rub, drizzle them with olive oil.
Step 5: Smoke the Chops
Place the pork chops in the smoker and smoke for 45 minutes to an hour or until they reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 6: Let them Rest
When the pork chops are finished cooking, remove them from the smoker and let them rest for 5 minutes. Serve with your favorite sides.
Brined Pork Chops Recipe on Masterbuilt Electric Smoker
This recipe will give you two delicious pork chops. If you have a large family or entertain often, you may want to double or triple the recipe.
Ingredients:
-2 pork chops
-1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
-1/4 cup kosher salt
-1/4 cup water
-1 teaspoon black peppercorns
-1/2 teaspoon onion powder
-1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
-1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
-1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
-1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops
To begin, combine apple cider vinegar, kosher salt, water, black peppercorns, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (optional), smoked paprika (optional), and dried thyme (optional) in a large resealable bag.
Step 2: Season the Pork Chops
Next, add the pork chops to the bag and massage the brine into the meat. Then, seal the bag tightly and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, up to 12 hours.
Step 3: Remove the Brine
After the pork chops have brined, remove them from the bag and pat them dry with paper towels.
Step 4: Preheat the Masterbuilt Electric Smoker
Now, it’s time to preheat your Masterbuilt electric smoker. Set the temperature to 225°F and the smoke setting to “High.” Then, add your wood chips or pellets to the tray and let the smoker preheat for at least 15 minutes.
Step 5: Smoke the Pork Chops
When the smoker is ready, place the pork chops on the racks and smoke for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F.
Step 6: Remove the Pork Chops from the Smoker
Once the pork chops have reached 145°F, remove them from the smoker and let them rest for at least 5 minutes.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the pork chops with your favorite sides, and enjoy!
Smoked Rice Stuffed Pork Chops in Masterbuilt Electric Smoker
This recipe is for four smoked pork chops.
Ingredients:
-4 pork chops
-1 cup of uncooked white rice
-1 can of chicken broth
-1/2 teaspoon of salt
-1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
-1 tablespoon of olive oil
-1 onion, diced
-2 cloves of garlic, minced
-1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme
-1/4 cup of white wine
Step 1: Prepare the Rice and the Masterbuilt Electric Smoker
First, you will need to prepare the rice. Cook the rice according to the package instructions. Once it is cooked, set it aside.
Next, prepare the Masterbuilt electric smoker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Preheat the smoker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 2: Cook the Stuffing
While the smoker is preheating, cook the stuffing. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent.
Add the thyme, white wine, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil. Add the cooked rice and stir to combine. Remove the stuffing from the heat and set it aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Pork Chops
Season the pork chops with salt and pepper. You can adjust the salt and pepper to taste. Stuff each pork chop with the rice stuffing, and then secure the pork chops with toothpicks.
Step 3: Smoke the Pork Chops
Place the pork chops in the smoker, and let them cook for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until they reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit internally.
Step 4: Remove the Pork Chops from the Smoker
Once the pork chops have reached 145 degrees Fahrenheit, remove them from the smoker and let them rest for at least 5 minutes, and serve.
10 Side Dish Ideas with Smoked Pork Chops
There are many delicious side dishes that go great with smoked pork chops. Here are 10 side dish ideas that will complement your smoked pork chops perfectly:
1. Roasted vegetables – Roasted vegetables are a classic side dish that goes well with any protein. Try roasting some carrots, Brussels sprouts, or potatoes to go with your pork chops.
2. Salad – A light and refreshing salad is the perfect foil for smoky and rich pork chops. Choose a green salad with a vinaigrette dressing, or try a fruit salad with a yogurt-based dressing.
3. Baked beans – Baked beans are a hearty side dish that can stand up to the rich flavors of smoked pork chops. Opt for a simple recipe using canned beans, or jazz things up with homemade baked beans loaded with flavor.
4. Corn on the cob – Corn on the cob is a summertime favorite that pairs well with smoked pork chops. Boiled, grilled, or roasted corn will all taste great alongside your pork chops.
5. Mashed potatoes – Mashed potatoes are always a good choice when you’re looking for a filling side dish. Add some extra flavor to your mashed potatoes by mixing in shredded cheese, bacon, or chives.
6. Rice – Rice is a versatile side dish that can be flavored in endless ways. Try making a simple herbed rice to go with your smoked pork chops, or go for something more adventurous like curried rice or Spanish rice.
7. Macaroni and cheese – Macaroni and cheese is comfort food at its finest, and it’s also an excellent pairing for smoked pork chops. Choose from a variety of great mac and cheese dishes, such as classic mac and cheese or unusual versions like truffle or lobster mac and cheese.
8. Grilled vegetables – Grilled vegetables are the perfect way to add some smoky flavor to your meal. Try grilling zucchini, eggplant, peppers, or mushrooms to accompany your smoked pork chops.
9. Baked potato – A baked potato is the ultimate blank canvas when it comes to side dishes. Top yours with sour cream, butter, cheese, bacon, or anything else you can think of!
10. Fruit salad – A fruit salad is a great way to add some sweetness and freshness to your meal. Choose fruits that are in season for the best flavor, and don’t forget to add a bit of lime juice or lemon juice to brighten things up.
5 Best Wood Chips/Pellets for Perfect Smoked Pork Chops
For those who love smoked pork chops, achieving the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness can be a challenge. However, by using the right type of wood chips or pellets, it is possible to turn out mouth-watering chops every time. Here are five of the best options to consider:
Hickory: Hickory is a classic choice for smoking pork, and for a good reason. It imparts a rich, smoky flavor that pairs well with the natural taste of pork.
Maple: Maple is another popular option for smoking pork chops. It has a slightly sweeter flavor than hickory, which can help to offset the fat content of the meat.
Oak: Oak is a versatile option that can be used with a variety of meats. It imparts a subtle smoke flavor that allows the natural flavors of the meat to shine through.
Apple: Applewood chips or pellets are ideal for those who want a milder smoke flavor. The sweetness of the apple complements the taste of pork without overpowering it.
Cherry: Cherry wood chips or pellets give pork chops a sweet and fruity flavor. They pair well with both sweet and savory sauces and rubs.
Smoked Pork Chops Cooking Tips
Here are some tips for smoking pork chops:
1. Choose the right cut of pork chop. For smoking, you’ll want to choose a thicker, bone-in chop. This will help the chop to stay moist and prevent it from drying out.
2. If you want to achieve the perfect smoke ring, start by brining your pork chops. This will help to keep them moist and prevent them from drying out during cooking.
3. Season your pork chops generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite BBQ rub. Be sure to get the rub into all of the nooks and crannies for maximum flavor.
4. Preheat your smoker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit before adding your pork chops. This low temperature will help to prevent the fat from rendering too quickly.
5. Cook your pork chops for 1-2 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Remember to flip them every 30 minutes or so to ensure even cooking.
6. After the pork chops are finished cooking, take them out of the smoker and give them five to ten minutes to rest. This will enable the liquids to be evenly distributed, resulting in juicy, succulent smoked pork chops.
Smoked Pork Chops Electric Smoker FAQs
How do you cook pork chops without drying them out?
The key to cooking pork chops without drying them out is to avoid overcooking. When meat is cooked for too long, the muscle fibers begin to contract and squeeze out their moisture. As a result, the meat can become tough and dry.
One way to prevent this from happening is to cook the pork chops over high heat for a shorter period of time. This will help to seal the juices and prevent the meat from drying out.
Another important tip is to avoid using a fork when cooking pork chops. Piercing the meat with a fork allows the juices to escape, making it more likely that the pork chops will dry out. Instead, use tongs or a spatula to flip the chops over.
How do you reheat a fully cooked smoked pork chop?
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to reheat a fully cooked smoked pork chop, the oven is your best bet. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and place the pork chop on a lightly oiled baking sheet.
Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the pork chop is heated through. You can also use the microwave to reheat your smoked pork chop, although this method is not recommended as it can cause the meat to become tough and dry. To reheat in the microwave, simply place the pork chop on a plate and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy way to cook pork chops, smoking them is the way to go.
By following the tips and techniques in this article on how to make smoked pork chops electric smoker, you’ll be able to produce succulent and juicy smoked pork chops that are sure to please.
And don’t forget, the key to success is in the quality of your ingredients and in not overcooking the meat. So fire up your smoker and get cooking!