Southern-Style Sweet Grilled Pork Chops

These tender pork chops are packed with a perfect balance of sweet and smoky flavors, making them a true Southern comfort food favorite. Easy to grill and full of flavor, they’re sure to become a weeknight dinner staple.

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TIME25 min

SERVINGS4

RATING5.0 / 5

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

½ cup barbeque sauce ¼ cup apple butter 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1 tablespoon ground black pepper 2 cloves garlic, minced 3 (4 ounce) pork chops

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

In a microwave-safe bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, apple butter, brown sugar, black pepper, and garlic. Pop it in the microwave for about 30 seconds until the sugar dissolves, then give it a good stir so the sauce is nice and smooth. Lay your pork chops out on a plate and pour the sauce over them, making sure they’re well coated. Cover and pop them in the fridge for an hour or two to let all those flavors really sink in. When you’re ready to cook, heat your grill to medium-high and give the grates a quick oiling to keep things from sticking. Grill the chops for around 15 minutes, turning as needed, until they’re cooked through and an instant-read thermometer hits 145°F in the thickest part. Let them rest a few minutes before serving so the juices settle.

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Marinate the pork chops for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to fully develop.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat to get a good sear without drying out the meat.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F for perfectly cooked chops.

Why you’ll love it

These pork chops are packed with a perfect balance of sweet and smoky flavors. The marinade tenderizes the meat, making each bite juicy and flavorful. Plus, grilling adds a nice char that enhances the overall taste.

Serving ideas

Serve these pork chops with classic Southern sides like baked beans, coleslaw, or cornbread. A fresh green salad or grilled vegetables also pair nicely to balance the sweetness of the meat.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the grill to keep them moist and flavorful. For longer storage, freeze cooked chops wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap.