Let’s talk about a match made in food heaven—smoked pork chops and pineapple. If you’re a fan of savory meats with a hint of sweetness, this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Smoked pork chops are already packed with flavor, but when you add caramelized pineapple, it’s a whole new level of delicious. It’s the kind of meal that’s fancy enough for a dinner party but easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight.
In this post, I’ll walk you through how to make the perfect smoked pork chops with pineapple on the stove. From tips to get the most flavor to FAQs about cooking methods, we’ve got everything you need for a sweet and savory success.
Table of contents
- Why Smoked Pork Chops with Pineapple Are a Perfect Combo
- Ingredients You’ll Need
- How to Cook Smoked Pork Chops with Pineapple on the Stove
- Serving Suggestions
- Using Canned vs. Fresh Pineapple
- Adding Vegetables for a Complete Meal
- Pairing Drinks with Smoked Pork Chops and Pineapple
- Making It a Crowd-Pleaser
- Tips for Cooking Smoked Pork Chops with Pineapple
- Variations on Smoked Pork Chops with Pineapple
- FAQs About Smoked Pork Chops with Pineapple
- Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Why You’ll Love This Dish
Why Smoked Pork Chops with Pineapple Are a Perfect Combo
There’s something magical about pairing pork with fruit. The smoky, salty flavor of the pork chops balances beautifully with the juicy, sweet tang of pineapple. Plus, cooking it all on the stove creates a caramelized, slightly sticky glaze that coats the pork chops and makes every bite irresistible.
Not only does this dish taste amazing, but it’s also quick to prepare. Smoked pork chops are already cooked during the smoking process, so you’re mostly heating them and infusing them with flavor. Pineapple cooks quickly, too, which means dinner is ready in no time!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make smoked pork chops with pineapple on the stove:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 smoked pork chops: Look for bone-in or boneless, depending on your preference. Bone-in tends to be juicier.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For searing the chops and getting that golden-brown crust.
- Salt and pepper: Just a light sprinkle since smoked pork chops are already seasoned.
For the Pineapple Glaze:
- 1 fresh pineapple, sliced: Canned pineapple rings work too, but fresh gives better flavor.
- 2 tbsp brown sugar: To enhance the pineapple’s natural sweetness and help it caramelize.
- 2 tbsp soy sauce: Adds a savory depth to the glaze.
- 1 tbsp honey: For a sticky, golden finish.
- 1 tbsp butter: For richness and to help the sauce coat the pork chops.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Balances the sweetness with a little savory punch.
- 1 tsp ground ginger: Optional, but it adds a warm, subtle spice.
How to Cook Smoked Pork Chops with Pineapple on the Stove
Let’s break it down step by step. This method is straightforward, but it delivers big on flavor!
1. Prep the Ingredients
Start by slicing the pineapple into rings or chunks, depending on how you’d like to serve it. If you’re using canned pineapple, drain the juice and pat the slices dry to prevent splattering. Season your pork chops lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Pork Chops
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the smoked pork chops. Sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Pineapple
In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Stir in the brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and ginger. Once the mixture starts to bubble, add the pineapple slices. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, allowing them to caramelize and soak up the sauce.
4. Combine and Simmer
Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them between the pineapple slices. Spoon some of the glaze over the chops, reduce the heat to low, and let everything simmer for 5-7 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the pork chops to heat through.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the pork chops with the pineapple on top or on the side, spooning extra glaze over the top.
Serving Suggestions
Smoked pork chops with pineapple are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right sides takes the meal to another level. Here are some ideas:
- Steamed rice: Perfect for soaking up that sweet and savory glaze.
- Mashed sweet potatoes: The creaminess pairs beautifully with the smoky pork and sweet pineapple.
- Grilled vegetables: Asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers are great options.
- Salad: A light green salad with a citrusy dressing balances the richness of the dish.
- Crack Green Beans: These sweet and savory green beans enhance the pineapple glaze’s flavor profile.
- Southern Cornbread: The buttery, crumbly texture of cornbread perfectly balances the caramelized pineapple and pork chops.
Using Canned vs. Fresh Pineapple
When it comes to making smoked pork chops with pineapple, you can use either fresh or canned pineapple, and both have their perks. Fresh pineapple offers a brighter, tangier flavor and a firmer texture that holds up better when caramelized in the skillet. On the other hand, canned pineapple is incredibly convenient, especially when you’re short on time. Just make sure to drain the canned pineapple thoroughly to prevent extra liquid from diluting the glaze. If you want a slightly sweeter glaze, use the juice from the can as part of the sauce—it’s a bonus flavor booster!
If you’re using canned pineapple, the natural sweetness pairs perfectly with savory sides like Texas Roadhouse Green Beans. The green beans’ smoky and buttery flavors balance the sweetness of the pineapple glaze, creating a harmonious plate.
Adding Vegetables for a Complete Meal
For an all-in-one dish, consider adding vegetables to the skillet while you cook the pineapple and pork chops. Bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas pair beautifully with the sweet and smoky flavors of this dish. Sauté the veggies in the glaze alongside the pineapple, letting them absorb the caramelized sweetness and soy sauce. This not only boosts the nutrition of the meal but also adds vibrant colors and textures that make the dish visually appealing.
Pairing Drinks with Smoked Pork Chops and Pineapple
Pairing the right drink can elevate this meal to a whole new level. A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the smoky and sweet flavors beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling pineapple lemonade or even a chilled iced tea with a splash of lime works perfectly. If you prefer beer, try a light lager or a fruity beer like a pineapple or mango-infused IPA to match the tropical vibes of the dish.
Making It a Crowd-Pleaser
This dish isn’t just for weeknight dinners—it’s a great choice for entertaining guests, too. Smoked pork chops with pineapple are easy to scale up for a larger group, and the presentation looks impressive with caramelized pineapple slices on top. You can also serve it family-style with a big platter of rice or roasted potatoes and let guests help themselves. The sweet and smoky aroma of the dish is sure to get everyone excited for dinner!
Tips for Cooking Smoked Pork Chops with Pineapple
- Don’t overcook the pork chops: Smoked pork chops are already cooked, so you just need to heat them through. Overcooking will dry them out.
- Use fresh pineapple: While canned pineapple works, fresh pineapple gives a better texture and flavor.
- Adjust the glaze: If you prefer a tangier glaze, add a splash of pineapple juice or apple cider vinegar.
Variations on Smoked Pork Chops with Pineapple
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the glaze for some heat.
- Herb-Infused: Toss in some fresh rosemary or thyme while simmering for an herby aroma.
- Tropical Style: Add coconut milk to the glaze for a creamy, tropical twist.
FAQs About Smoked Pork Chops with Pineapple
Smoked pork chops are typically precooked during the smoking process, so you don’t need to cook them from raw. However, reheating and adding flavor with sauces or glazes, like pineapple, enhances their taste.
Yes, pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that helps break down proteins, making pork more tender. Just don’t marinate it too long, as the enzymes can over-soften the meat.
Smoked pork chops only need about 2-3 minutes per side to sear over medium heat. After that, simmer them in sauce for an additional 5-7 minutes to heat through without drying them out.
To warm up smoked pork chops, use a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water. Cover the skillet with a lid to trap moisture, and heat for about 5-8 minutes, flipping occasionally.
Tough smoked pork chops are usually the result of overcooking. Since they’re already cooked during smoking, heating them too long or at too high a temperature dries them out. Stick to low and gentle reheating.
Smoked pork chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F. However, since they’re precooked, focus more on reheating them evenly rather than cooking to a specific temperature.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Sodium | 800mg |
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Smoked pork chops with pineapple on the stove is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The smoky, salty chops paired with sweet, caramelized pineapple create a flavor combination that feels both indulgent and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is guaranteed to impress without a ton of effort.
So, the next time you’re craving something hearty, flavorful, and just a little fancy, give this recipe a try. Trust me, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
