Barbecued Pork Steaks Recipe

Juicy Barbecued Pork Steaks Recipe for Outdoor Grill Magic

Summer’s heat brings out the best in these mouthwatering barbecued pork steaks that promise a flavor explosion on your grill.

Marinades work magic, infusing each slice with deep, smoky goodness.

Lean cuts of meat guarantee a tender, juicy result every single time.

Backyard gatherings call for something special that impresses without complicated techniques.

Spices and seasonings dance across the surface, creating a delectable crust that seals in moisture.

Bold flavors merge with the natural richness of pork, making this recipe a crowd-pleaser.

Let these sizzling steaks become the star of your next outdoor meal.

Interesting Swaps for Barbecued Pork Steaks

  • Smoky Herb Pork: Replace paprika with dried thyme, rosemary, and oregano for an aromatic Mediterranean-style seasoning. Adds fresh herb complexity to the traditional barbecue flavor.
  • Low-Sodium Lean Option: Substitute salt with salt-free herb blend and use reduced-sodium barbecue sauce. Perfect for heart-healthy diets while maintaining rich taste profile.
  • Gluten-Free BBQ Adaptation: Select certified gluten-free barbecue sauce and ensure all spices are pure, single-ingredient varieties without hidden wheat-based additives. Ideal for celiac and gluten-sensitive individuals.
  • Spicy Cajun Transformation: Swap cayenne with Cajun seasoning blend, adding more chili powder and smoked paprika. Creates a bold, zesty southwestern-style pork steak with intense heat and robust flavor.

Everything About Barbecued Pork Steaks FAQs

  • What spices are in the rub for barbecued pork steaks?

The rub includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and a touch of cayenne for heat.

  • Why do I need to use indirect heat when grilling?

Indirect heat allows the pork steaks to cook slowly and evenly, making them tender and preventing burning before they’re fully cooked.

  • How do I know when the pork steaks are done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F, which ensures the pork is safe to eat and remains juicy.

  • Can I use a different type of sauce instead of barbecue sauce?

Yes, you can experiment with different sauces like honey mustard, bourbon glaze, or a spicy hot sauce to customize the flavor of your pork steaks.

Barbecued Pork Steaks with Backyard Vibes

  • Master a restaurant-quality dish with minimal cooking skills and basic ingredients.
  • Prepare delicious barbecued pork steaks in under 90 minutes, perfect for casual family gatherings or laid-back weekend meals.
  • Combine simple spices and barbecue sauce to create a mouthwatering meal that delivers maximum taste with minimal complexity.
  • Adapt the recipe easily by switching spice blends or sauce types, making it flexible for different taste preferences and pantry supplies.

Barbecued Pork Steaks Ingredient Rundown

Meat:
  • Pork Steaks: Juicy, flavorful cut perfect for grilling, choose well-marbled steaks for tenderness and rich flavor.

.

Spice Blend:
  • Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Cayenne, Salt, Black Pepper: Classic barbecue seasoning mix for deep and balanced flavor, freshly ground spices provide better taste complexity.

.

Liquid and Sauce:
  • Olive Oil: Helps spices adhere and promotes even browning, use extra virgin for best quality.
  • Barbecue Sauce: Sweet and tangy finishing glaze for caramelization, choose thick commercial sauce or homemade version.

Steps to Cook Barbecued Pork Steaks

Step 1: Unleash the Flavor

  • Pat pork steaks completely dry
  • Blend these spices in a small bowl
  • Paprika
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Cayenne pepper
  • Massage olive oil over entire surface of steaks
  • Generously coat steaks with spice mixture

Step 2: Fire Up the Grill

  • Warm grill to medium heat (350 degrees Fahrenheit)
  • Create two temperature zones: hot and cooler sides
  • Ensure grill grates are clean and lightly oiled

Step 3: Slow Cooking Magic

  • Position steaks on cooler grill section
  • Close grill lid
  • Cook for 45-60 minutes
  • Rotate steaks periodically
  • Watch for tender texture and nearly complete cooking

Step 4: Caramelize and Glaze

  • Brush both sides with barbecue sauce
  • Transfer steaks to hot grill section
  • Sear 3-5 minutes per side
  • Continue basting with sauce
  • Look for beautiful caramelized exterior

Step 5: Serve and Savor

  • Remove steaks from grill
  • Let rest 5 minutes
  • Plate with additional sauce on side
  • Enjoy immediately while hot and juicy

Expert Help for Barbecued Pork Steaks

  • Dry the Meat: Always pat pork steaks completely dry before seasoning to help spices adhere better and create a perfect crust during grilling.
  • Balance Spice Blend: Adjust cayenne pepper amount based on heat preference – start with less and add more gradually for personalized flavor intensity.
  • Master Indirect Grilling: Use two-zone grill setup to prevent burning and ensure even, tender cooking by moving steaks between cooler and hotter sides strategically.
  • Sauce Timing Matters: Apply barbecue sauce during the final grilling stage to prevent burning and achieve beautiful caramelization without charring the meat.
  • Check Internal Temperature: Use meat thermometer to confirm pork reaches safe 145°F, guaranteeing juicy, perfectly cooked steaks without overcooking.

Tips to Keep Barbecued Pork Steaks Juicy

  • Store leftover pork steaks in an airtight container within two hours of cooking. Properly sealed, they'll keep fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Wrap individual steaks tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags. Frozen pork steaks maintain quality for up to 3 months.
  • Preheat oven to 325°F. Place steaks in a baking dish, add a splash of broth to prevent drying. Cover with foil and warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
  • Slice steaks and place on a microwave-safe plate. Drizzle with extra barbecue sauce, cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking to prevent overcooking.

Food Pairings for Barbecued Pork Steaks

  • Grab a crisp wheat beer or light citrus-infused ale that cuts through the rich pork flavors and complements the spicy rub.
  • Create a vinegar-based coleslaw with green cabbage, carrots, and a hint of apple cider vinegar to balance the barbecue's smoky sweetness.
  • Prepare Mexican-style street corn with chili powder, cotija cheese, and lime to echo the barbecue's spicy and smoky profile while adding fresh texture.
  • Whip up a quick cucumber relish with diced onions, fresh dill, and a touch of white vinegar to provide a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty pork steaks.
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Barbecued Pork Steaks Recipe

Barbecued Pork Steaks Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 13 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent barbecued pork steaks bring smoky Southern charm to summer grilling adventures. Juicy marinated meat with crispy edges delivers mouthwatering flavor that invites you to savor each delicious bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Proteins:

  • 4 pork shoulder (blade) steaks (about 1 inch thick or 2.5 centimeters thick)

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Preparation and Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pork steaks by gently patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring optimal seasoning adhesion.
  2. Create a robust spice blend by thoroughly mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne in a small mixing bowl.
  3. Massage olive oil across both surfaces of the pork steaks, then liberally coat with the prepared spice mixture, pressing the seasonings into the meat.
  4. Configure the grill for indirect heat, establishing a temperature zone around 350°F, which allows for gradual, even cooking.
  5. Position the seasoned pork steaks on the cooler section of the grill, maintaining a covered environment to trap heat and moisture.
  6. Rotate the steaks periodically during a 45-50 minute cooking period, monitoring tenderness and ensuring nearly complete internal cooking.
  7. Generously brush both sides of the steaks with barbecue sauce, transferring them to the hotter grill section for caramelization.
  8. Sear each side for 3-5 minutes, continually basting and flipping to develop a glossy, richly glazed exterior.
  9. Remove the steaks from the grill and allow them to rest for 5 minutes, permitting juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
  10. Serve immediately, offering additional barbecue sauce on the side for those desiring extra flavor intensity.

Notes

  • Moisture Matters: Pat the pork steaks completely dry to help the spice rub adhere better and create a perfect crispy exterior during grilling.
  • Spice Customization: Adjust the cayenne pepper quantity based on heat preference, or swap with smoked paprika for a deeper flavor profile without intense spiciness.
  • Indirect Heat Strategy: Using two-zone grilling prevents burning and allows gradual, even cooking, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy pork steaks.
  • Sauce Selection: Choose a barbecue sauce with balanced sweetness and tanginess to complement the spice rub, enhancing the overall flavor complexity of the dish.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Ethan Miller

Ethan Miller

Founder & Lead Content Writer

Expertise

  • Recipe Development and Testing
  • Food Photography and Styling
  • Culinary Writing and Blogging
  • Ingredient Sourcing and Sustainability Practices

Education

Portland Community College

  • Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen operations, and food safety protocols.

Culinary Institute of the Pacific

  • Program: Certificate in International Cuisine
  • Focus: Exploration of global culinary traditions, flavor profiles, and plating artistry.

Ethan’s culinary journey began in his grandmother’s kitchen, where he first learned to play with flavors and ingredients. With formal training in culinary arts and a deep love for international cuisines, Ethan’s goal is to share the joy of cooking with others.

He believes food is all about creativity and bringing people together, one meal at a time. When he’s not experimenting with new dishes, he enjoys hiking in the Oregon wilderness and discovering fresh, local ingredients.

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