The Blackstone Blackened Pork Chops from Gimme Some Grilling are a flavorful and juicy dinner option, perfect for weeknights or weekend cookouts. Seasoned with a bold homemade blackening rub and cooked on a flat-top griddle, these pork chops develop a delicious crust while remaining tender inside. This quick and easy recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
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4 boneless pork chops
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6 tablespoons butter, divided
Blackened Seasoning:
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1 tablespoon smoked paprika
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon dried oregano
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½ teaspoon dried thyme
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½ teaspoon ground black pepper
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½ teaspoon kosher salt
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½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Directions
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Preheat your Blackstone griddle to high heat.
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Prepare the seasoning by mixing all the blackened seasoning ingredients in a small bowl.
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Pat dry the pork chops with paper towels.
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Melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Using a basting brush, coat each pork chop with the melted butter.
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Season the buttered pork chops generously with the blackened seasoning on both sides.
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Melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter on the preheated griddle.
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Place the seasoned pork chops onto the griddle in the melted butter.
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Cook for 4–5 minutes on the first side until a good char develops.
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Flip the pork chops and cook the other side for another 4–5 minutes.
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Reduce the heat to medium.
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Cover the pork chops with a cooking dome and continue cooking for about 5–6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
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Remove the pork chops from the griddle and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrients (Per Serving)
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.
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Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
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Protein: 30 g
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Carbohydrates: 2 g
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Fat: 25 g
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Saturated Fat: 12 g
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Cholesterol: 120 mg
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Sodium: 400 mg
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Fiber: 1 g
What Makes Blackened Pork Chops Special?
Blackening is a classic cooking technique rooted in Cajun cuisine, traditionally used to prepare fish or chicken. It involves coating the meat in a spice mixture and cooking it over high heat to form a flavorful, charred crust. In this recipe, thick boneless pork chops are the star, taking on the bold seasoning and sear like a dream.
The contrast of the crispy, charred exterior and the juicy interior is what makes blackened pork chops so irresistible. When done right, the crust locks in moisture and amplifies the seasoning, giving you a perfect bite every time.
Why the Blackstone Griddle is Ideal for This Recipe
The Blackstone griddle has become a backyard essential for good reason. Its wide cooking surface, even heat distribution, and high-temperature capability make it ideal for recipes like this one. The hot flat top allows the pork chops to develop a crusty char without drying out — a key factor in achieving true blackened perfection.
In addition, the griddle lets you cook multiple pork chops at once without overcrowding the pan. This is especially useful when cooking for a family or hosting a gathering. And because everything is cooked on one surface, clean-up is easier than traditional stovetop methods.
Homemade Blackening Rub: The Secret Weapon
One of the best parts of this recipe is the homemade blackened seasoning. Unlike store-bought blends, this mix is fresher, fully customizable, and free from additives. It’s made from a combination of smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper — a medley of spices that work in harmony to create deep flavor with a bit of heat.
The smoked paprika is the base, lending a rich, earthy note. The cayenne adds a punch, which can be adjusted to your heat preference. Aromatic herbs like thyme and oregano provide depth, and the garlic and onion powders create savory complexity. Together, these spices coat the pork chops in a vibrant crust that sizzles beautifully on the griddle.
The Role of Butter in Blackened Cooking
Butter plays a crucial role in blackened recipes, and this one is no exception. It serves two main purposes: first, it helps the spices adhere to the pork chops evenly, and second, it promotes that signature blackened crust by browning on the hot surface.
In this recipe, butter is brushed onto the pork chops before seasoning and is also melted directly on the griddle. This dual approach ensures both flavor and crispiness. If you’re looking to make the dish slightly lighter or dairy-free, you can experiment with alternatives like ghee or avocado oil, but the richness of butter really enhances the blackened flavor.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pork Chops Every Time
Cooking pork can be tricky — overcooked chops become dry and tough, while undercooked ones are unsafe to eat. The key is using a meat thermometer. The safe internal temperature for pork chops is 145°F (63°C). Once the pork hits this temp, remove it from the griddle and let it rest for 3–5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
Another tip is to resist the urge to move the chops around once they’re on the griddle. Let them sit undisturbed so the seasoning can caramelize and form that beautiful blackened crust. Flip once, cook the other side, then finish under a cooking dome to ensure even heating without drying out the meat.
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
These pork chops are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. For a balanced, flavorful meal, consider serving them with:
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Grilled vegetables: zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and nutrients.
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Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes: hearty and comforting.
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Coleslaw or a tangy cabbage salad: offers contrast and crunch.
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Cornbread or garlic bread: rounds out the Southern-inspired feel.
For a lower-carb option, try cauliflower mash or a crisp green salad with vinaigrette. These pork chops also reheat well, making them perfect for meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Blackstone Blackened Pork Chops recipe checks all the boxes: it’s easy, flavorful, quick to cook, and makes you feel like a grill master without requiring years of experience. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy pork chops without baking or pan-frying — methods that often fall short in delivering bold flavor or crispy edges.
Even better, the blackened spice mix is pantry-friendly and easy to make in larger batches. Store extra seasoning in a jar, and you’re ready for your next blackened chicken, fish, or vegetable dish.
It’s also an ideal recipe to scale up. Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a crowd, this dish works seamlessly with a larger batch — no extra tools or oven time needed.
Conclusion
The Blackstone Blackened Pork Chops from Gimme Some Grilling offer everything you want in a dinner recipe: bold flavor, quick cooking, juicy texture, and minimal cleanup. By combining a fiery homemade rub with the high-heat power of the Blackstone griddle, this recipe elevates humble pork chops to restaurant-worthy status.
Perfect for weeknight meals or weekend gatherings, these chops will quickly become a household favorite. With just a handful of spices, a bit of butter, and a few minutes on the grill, you’ll create a meal that’s not only satisfying but unforgettable.
So fire up your griddle, grab those pork chops, and let your dinner take on a smoky, spicy, and utterly delicious new life. Your taste buds will thank you.