Grilled Pork Chops with Roasted Pumpkin and Sage Brown Butter

Instructions

1. 1

   Pat pork chops dry with paper towels and let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).

   Tip: Room temperature meat cooks more evenly and develops better crust on the grill.

2. 2

   Toss pumpkin wedges with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Arrange on a baking sheet and roast in a 400°F oven for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.

   Tip: Start roasting the pumpkin before grilling the pork so everything finishes around the same time.

3. 3

   Season both sides of pork chops generously with salt and pepper. Rub lightly with remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil.

   Tip: Don't season too early or the salt will draw out moisture; season just before cooking.

4. 4

   Place pork chops on the grill grates and cook for 5-6 minutes per side without moving them, until internal temperature reaches 145°F and a golden crust forms.

   Tip: Resist the urge to flip or move the chops; undisturbed cooking creates better browning.

5. 5

   Transfer grilled pork to a plate and tent loosely with foil to rest for 5 minutes.

   Tip: Resting allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist.

6. 6

   While pork rests, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and 8 sage leaves, cooking until butter turns golden brown and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

   Tip: Watch the butter carefully—it can burn quickly once it starts browning.

7. 7

   Add balsamic vinegar and apple juice to the brown butter, stirring to combine. Add thyme sprigs and simmer for 2 minutes until slightly reduced.

   Tip: The apple juice adds natural sweetness that complements both the pork and pumpkin.

8. 8

   Plate the rested pork chops alongside the roasted pumpkin wedges. Drizzle generously with the sage brown butter sauce and garnish with remaining fresh sage leaves. Serve immediately.

   Tip: Pour the sauce just before serving to keep the pork chops' crispy exterior intact.