Scotch-Glazed Grilled Pork Chops

This Scotch-Glazed Grilled Pork Chops recipe elevates a classic dish by incorporating Scotch whisky into a sweet, smoky, and slightly tangy glaze that pairs wonderfully with grilled pork. The glaze caramelizes as it cooks, creating a flavorful crust on the outside while keeping the pork tender and juicy. This recipe is versatile, and you can serve it with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, for a complete and memorable meal.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

Each ingredient in this recipe contributes to the flavor and texture of the dish. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and how each component enhances the final result.

For the Pork Chops:

4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick): Bone-in pork chops are ideal for grilling as they stay juicier than boneless chops. The bone also adds flavor and helps protect the meat from overcooking. Choose chops that are about an inch thick for even cooking.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): Salt and pepper enhance the natural flavors of the pork and help create a tasty crust on the outside.
1 tbsp olive oil: Olive oil helps the pork chops retain moisture and prevents them from sticking to the grill.

For the Scotch Glaze:

1/2 cup Scotch whisky: Scotch whisky is the star ingredient in this glaze, adding a smoky, slightly sweet flavor with hints of caramel. Choose a medium-bodied Scotch that isn’t too peaty or smoky, as a very strong Scotch can overpower the glaze.
1/4 cup brown sugar (packed): Brown sugar adds sweetness and helps create a caramelized crust on the pork chops when grilled. The molasses in brown sugar also gives the glaze a deep, rich flavor.
2 tbsp Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard adds tanginess and balances the sweetness of the glaze. Its sharp, slightly spicy flavor pairs well with the smoky notes of the Scotch.
1 tbsp soy sauce: Soy sauce adds umami and saltiness, enhancing the overall depth of flavor in the glaze.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic adds a savory, aromatic element to the glaze, rounding out the flavors with its robust taste.
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar provides acidity, balancing the sweetness of the brown sugar and adding a slight tang to the glaze.
1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional): Smoked paprika enhances the smoky flavor of the Scotch and adds a touch of color and warmth to the glaze.

For Garnish (optional):

Fresh thyme sprigs or chopped parsley: Fresh herbs add a pop of color and freshness, balancing the richness of the glaze.
Lemon wedges: Lemon wedges provide a burst of acidity, enhancing the flavors and cutting through the richness of the pork.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pork ChopsStart by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps create a nice sear when grilling. Season both sides of the pork chops generously with salt and black pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and rub it in to ensure even coverage. Let the seasoned pork chops sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes while you prepare the glaze.
- Why Season in Advance? Allowing the pork chops to sit with the seasoning for a few minutes helps the salt penetrate the meat, enhancing the flavor throughout.
- Using Olive Oil: Olive oil helps prevent the pork chops from sticking to the grill and adds a touch of richness.
Make the Scotch GlazeIn a small saucepan, combine the Scotch whisky, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika (if using). Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and stir until the brown sugar has dissolved.Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the glaze to cook for about 5-7 minutes. This reduces the liquid slightly and thickens the glaze, concentrating the flavors. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Adjusting the Consistency: The glaze should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. If it’s too thin, continue to simmer for a few more minutes. If it’s too thick, add a small splash of water or Scotch to thin it out.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the glaze and adjust if necessary. You can add more brown sugar for sweetness, extra Dijon mustard for tang, or more soy sauce for saltiness.
Preheat the GrillPreheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent the pork chops from sticking.
- Using a Grill: Grilling over medium-high heat is ideal for pork chops, as it sears the outside without overcooking the inside. If you’re using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals for indirect heat so you can move the pork chops if they start to cook too quickly.
Grill the Pork ChopsPlace the pork chops on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness to ensure the pork chops are cooked safely without becoming dry.During the last 1-2 minutes of grilling on each side, brush a layer of the Scotch glaze over the pork chops. This allows the glaze to caramelize slightly, creating a delicious crust with a hint of sweetness and smokiness.
- Basting with the Glaze: Applying the glaze toward the end of grilling prevents it from burning. The sugars in the glaze caramelize quickly, adding flavor without charring.
- Using a Meat Thermometer: A thermometer ensures the pork is perfectly cooked. Pork chops are safe to eat at 145°F, which keeps them juicy and tender.
Rest the Pork ChopsOnce the pork chops are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest on a plate for about 5 minutes. Resting the meat allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the pork chops moist and flavorful.
- Importance of Resting: Cutting into the pork chops immediately after cooking can cause the juices to run out. Resting helps retain those juices for a tender bite.
ServeDrizzle any remaining Scotch glaze over the pork chops before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for added color and aroma, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an optional burst of acidity.
- Serving Suggestions: This Scotch-glazed pork pairs well with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, grilled asparagus, or a light salad.

Tips for Perfect Scotch-Glazed Grilled Pork Chops

Choose the Right Scotch: A medium-bodied Scotch works best, with hints of caramel and vanilla rather than heavy smokiness. Avoid very peaty or smoky Scotch, as it can overwhelm the glaze.
Thick-Cut Pork Chops Are Best: Thicker pork chops (around 1 inch) stay juicier on the grill. Thin pork chops cook too quickly and are more likely to dry out.
Monitor the Temperature: A meat thermometer is the best way to check for doneness, as pork can go from juicy to dry quickly. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F.
Glaze Timing: Adding the glaze in the last couple of minutes prevents burning while allowing it to caramelize, enhancing flavor and presentation.

Flavor Variations and Serving Ideas

Honey-Scotch Glaze: Substitute honey for brown sugar in the glaze for a milder sweetness and a touch of floral flavor. Honey caramelizes beautifully and pairs well with the Scotch.
Spicy Scotch Glaze: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for a hint of heat. This adds depth and balances the sweetness of the brown sugar.
Herb-Marinated Pork Chops: Marinate the pork chops in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, thyme, and rosemary for an hour before grilling. The herbs add a fresh flavor that complements the Scotch glaze.
Scotch-Glazed Pork Chop Sandwiches: Slice leftover pork chops and serve them on toasted buns with lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of the remaining glaze for a delicious sandwich.
Serve with Roasted Vegetables: Roasted sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or carrots make excellent sides, adding natural sweetness and color to the plate.

This Scotch-Glazed Grilled Pork Chops recipe brings together the smoky, caramelized flavor of Scotch whisky with tender, juicy pork chops. The Scotch glaze adds a rich, slightly sweet coating that’s perfect for grilling, resulting in a flavorful crust that complements the meat. This recipe is sure to impress and can be customized to suit different tastes with variations in the glaze. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a meal that’s both elegant and comforting!

Cooking With Beer, Whiskey and Spirits