Grilling bbq pork to perfection requires knowing the right amount of time needed based on the thickness and cut of the meat. With the right timing, you can ensure the pork is cooked through without drying out. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about how long to grill bbq pork.
The Basics of Grilling BBQ Pork
BBQ pork refers to pork cuts like pork shoulders, pork ribs, pork chops, etc that are seasoned with a rub or marinade and then grilled over medium-high heat. The most popular bbq pork cuts are:
- Pork shoulder – Used for pulled pork
- Baby back ribs
- Spare ribs
- Pork chops – Bone-in or boneless
These cuts are ideal for grilling because they contain fat and connective tissue that keeps the meat moist during the grilling process. The main objectives when grilling bbq pork are:
- Achieve an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption
- Develop a flavorful, caramelized bark or crust on the exterior
- Keep the meat moist and tender
Mastering the grill times is essential for checking off all three objectives. The total grilling time will depend on the size and thickness of the cut.
How Long to Grill Different Pork Cuts
Here is a breakdown of approximate grill times for common bbq pork cuts:
Pork Shoulder
Pork shoulder is one of the most popular choices for pulled pork. It needs to cook low and slow to break down the fat and connective tissue. A 6-8 lb bone-in pork shoulder will take approximately:
- Indirect heat: 8-12 hours at 225°F
- Direct heat: 90-120 minutes per pound at 325°F
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temp of 200-205°F when the meat is fork tender and ready to shred.
Pork Ribs
Pork ribs come either as baby back ribs or spare ribs. Baby back ribs are smaller and leaner while spare ribs are fattier with more connective tissue. Grill times per slab of ribs are:
| Rib Type | Thickness | Direct Grill Time |
|---|---|---|
| Baby Back | 1.5 – 2 inches | 1.5 – 2.5 hours |
| Spare Ribs | 2.5 – 3 inches | 2 – 3 hours |
Cook at 225-250°F indirect heat until internal temp reaches 195°F. Baste with bbq sauce during the last 10-15 minutes. Ribs are done when you can twist a bone and it starts to loosen.
Pork Chops
The grill time for pork chops varies significantly based on thickness. Follow these guidelines:
| Thickness | Direct Grill Time |
|---|---|
| 1/2 inch | 6 – 8 minutes per side |
| 3/4 – 1 inch | 8 – 12 minutes per side |
| 1 1/2 inches | 14 – 18 minutes per side |
Use a medium-high heat of 350-400°F and cook until internal temp reaches 145°F. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Factors that Affect Grill Time
While the times above provide a general guideline, several factors can affect exactly how long it takes to grill bbq pork. Keep these considerations in mind:
Thickness
The thickness of the meat is the most significant factor. Thicker cuts take longer to grill because it takes time for the heat to penetrate to the center. Thinner meats cook faster but can also dry out quicker.
Bone-In vs Boneless
Bone-in cuts will take longer than boneless because the bone partly insulates the meat. Remove the bone before checking internal temp or the thermometer will give an inaccurate reading.
Marinating
Cuts that are marinated may cook a bit faster because the acidic marinade starts to break down the meat. Account for slightly less time when grilling marinated bbq pork.
Coal vs Gas Grill
A charcoal grill often gets hotter than a gas grill, so meats may cook faster over hot coal. You have more control over temperature with a gas grill.
Direct vs Indirect Heat
Indirect heat (off to the side) is lower and slower for large cuts like pork shoulder. Direct heat is hotter and better for faster-cooking items like chops.
Altitude
At higher altitudes where the air is thinner, food will take longer to grill since there is less oxygen to facilitate the cooking process.
How to Tell When Pork is Done Grilling
Visual signs that pork is nearing doneness include:
- Browning and grill marks on the exterior
- Fat rendering on the edges
- Bone beginning to protrude on ribs
- Firmness when squeezed
The most reliable way to check if bbq pork is fully cooked is to use an instant read thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the meat, away from any bones.
The safe minimum internal temperatures for different pork cuts are:
- Pork shoulder – 200°-205°F
- Pork ribs – 195°F
- Pork chops – 145°F
When in doubt, it is better to grill bbq pork a little longer than necessary. Slightly overcooked meat is safer than undercooked.
Tips for Juicy, Tender Results
Follow these tips for fail-proof, mouthwatering grilled pork every time:
- Use the right cut for the recipe – Choose leaner chops for fast cooking over direct heat but tougher shoulder or ribs for slow, indirect grilling.
- Season well – Use dry rubs or marinades to boost flavor.
- Cook low and slow – Keeping temps in the 225-325°F range gives the collagen time to melt for tender meat.
- Rest before serving – Let pork sit to reabsorb juices.
- Know when to flip – Only flip once and let it brown before rotating.
- Mind the temp – Invest in a good thermometer and always double check doneness.
Conclusion
Grilling moist, delicious bbq pork comes down to selecting the right cut for your recipe and mastering the perfect grill time. Keep the pork’s thickness in mind and use the guidelines above for approximate times. For the most accurate results, check for doneness with a meat thermometer. Armed with the proper timing, you’ll be able to impress everyone with your grilling skills.