Pork Steak

When we started raising our own pigs, I suddenly found myself with a freezer full of pork cuts I had never cooked before. Pork steaks were one of those cuts. We quickly learned that pork steak is a flavorful and versatile cut that’s every bit as good as a pork chop—some might say it’s even better.

In our recipe, seasoned pork steaks are seared in a skillet to lock in the juices before they’re finished in the oven. The result? Tender and juicy pork that your whole family will love. They’re straightforward, and an excellent choice for getting dinner on the table fast.

What’s the difference between pork steak and a pork chop?

Though similar, these two types of pork have distinct differences. Pork steaks come from the shoulder of the pig and are fattier and richer in flavor than pork chops. Pork chops come from a pig’s loin, which is a much leaner cut. You can use them interchangeably in most recipes, but a bonus of using pork steaks is that they’re fattier, and therefore a bit more forgiving (I can’t be the only one who grew up eating tough pork chops—it’s not pleasant). When done right, pork steaks always come out perfectly tender and juicy.

Pork Steak Ingredients

• Pork steak: This cut of pork is sometimes called a blade steak, shoulder steak or Boston butt steak. Look for good marbling on the steaks, which adds flavor and tenderness. Also, make sure the steaks are evenly thick for more uniform cooking.
• Seasonings: Simple seasonings, including salt, pepper, garlic powder and onion powder, flavor the steak.
• Olive oil: Use regular olive oil, not extra virgin olive oil, to sear the pork steaks. Extra virgin olive oil’s robust flavor is ideal for dip recipes or as a drizzle over salads, but it’s unrefined and has a lower smoke point than regular olive oil. That means it won’t hold up to the higher heat required for searing.
• Worcestershire sauce: The tangy flavor of Worcestershire sauce adds umami to the pork steaks as they cook in the oven.

Directions

Step 1: Season the pork

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Preheat your oven to 375°F. Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel.

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Sprinkle the steaks with salt, pepper, garlic powder and onion powder.

Editor’s Tip: If you have the time, let the pork sit at room temperature (no more than 30 minutes) before cooking. This will aid in even browning of the steaks.

Step 2: Sear the pork

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In a large cast iron skillet or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Brown the steaks on both sides. Brush them with Worcestershire sauce.

Editor’s Tip: When browning meat, you only need a few minutes per side. You don’t want to cook it all the way through since it goes in the oven to finish cooking. This method also creates fond that you could use to turn into a quick pan sauce before serving.

Step 3: Finish the pork in the oven

Transfer the skillet to the oven. Cook until a thermometer inserted in the pork reads 145°, which should take 8 to 10 minutes. Let the pork steaks stand for five minutes before serving them.

Editor’s Tip: An instant-read meat thermometer is a cook’s best friend when it comes to testing pork steaks.

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Pork Steak Variations

• Add more seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite dried herbs, such as dried thyme, oregano, rosemary or sage. Or use your favorite pork seasoning mix. For a bit of heat, add smoked paprika, cayenne pepper or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes.
• Smother it: For a decadent take on pork steak, cook it in a creamy sauce like you would smothered pork chops.
• Make a sheet-pan dinner: One sheet pan is all you need to cook this pork and asparagus recipe.
• Barbecue the pork steaks: Skip the grill, but get all that barbecue flavor by simmering them in your favorite barbecue sauce, like you would with sweet barbecue pork chops.
• Bread ’em: Use a simple breading on the pork steaks. The breading adds a crispy texture and helps seal in all those delicious juices, just like breaded pork chops.

How to Store Pork Steak

Leftover pork steaks should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To prevent them from drying out, you can wrap them individually in storage wrap.

How long does pork steak last?

Pork steaks last for three to four days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can you freeze pork steaks?

Pork steaks are best eaten directly after cooking for the best flavor and texture. However, cooked pork steaks can be frozen if necessary. First, allow the pork steaks to cool completely. Then, wrap them in storage wrap, followed by a layer of foil. Place the steaks in a freezer storage bag, label them with the contents and date, and freeze them for up to three months. Allow the pork steaks to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating them.

How do you reheat pork steak?

For the best results, place the steaks in a glass baking dish, add a splash of broth or water and cover the dish tightly with foil. Bake them at 350° until the internal temperature reaches 145°, about 25 to 30 minutes. You can also quickly reheat them in the microwave on high for two to three minutes.

Pork Steak Tips

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How do you know when a pork steak is done?

Use an instant-read thermometer to check the pork steak’s internal temperature to ensure doneness. The USDA recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of at least 145°. The meat may still be pink inside at 145°, and that’s totally fine; pink pork is safe to eat. Avoid cooking them to over 160°, which will result in dry pork steaks. If you don’t have a meat thermometer, there are a few other signs to look for. If you cut into the meat, the juices that run out should be clear or just barely pink. The pork needs to cook longer if the juices are completely pink or red.

What can you serve with pork steaks?

We love to serve our favorite quick and easy side dishes with our pork steaks, like au gratin potatoes, roasted green beans or a fresh side salad. And, of course, you can’t go wrong with some applesauce or fried apples on the side.

What are some other ways to use pork steak?

Use pork steaks for pork with creamy noodles. Sliced pork steak can be used to make sandwiches or as a filling for tacos, taquitos or burritos. Any leftovers can be used in pork potpie, pork fried rice or tasty pork stir-fry recipes.