Are you looking for a new way to cook pork steaks?
Look no further than your Traeger grill!
With the right seasoning and technique, you can create juicy and flavorful pork steaks that will impress your family and friends.
Whether you prefer a smoky flavor or a tangy BBQ sauce, there are endless possibilities for cooking pork steaks on a Traeger.
In this article, we’ll explore different methods and seasonings to help you create the perfect pork steak every time.
So fire up your Traeger and let’s get cooking!
How To Cook Pork Steaks On A Traeger?
Before you start cooking, it’s important to prepare your pork steaks.
One popular method is to slather the steaks with mustard and season them with a pork and poultry rub. This will keep the meat moist and add a delicious flavor.
Once your pork steaks are seasoned, preheat your Traeger grill to 180°F and let it heat up for 15 minutes with the lid closed. For an extra smoky flavor, use Super Smoke if available.
Arrange the pork steaks directly on the grill grates and insert a probe horizontally into the thickest part of a steak, avoiding the bone. Close the lid and smoke for 1 1/2 hours.
After 1 1/2 hours, transfer the pork steaks to a plate and increase the Traeger temperature to 225°F. Preheat for 5-10 minutes. Meanwhile, wrap each steak in aluminum foil, adding 2 tablespoons of apple juice to each foil packet before sealing.
Return the steaks to the grill, close the lid, and cook for another 45 minutes. Unwrap the pork steaks from the foil, place them directly on the grill grates, and reinsert the probe. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, about 15 minutes more.
Brush both sides of the pork steaks with your favorite BBQ sauce, then remove them from the grill. Let them rest for 3 minutes before serving with more BBQ sauce alongside.
Another method is to season both sides of the pork steaks with a dry rub and let them rest for 30 minutes. Set your pellet grill or smoker to 250°F and use hickory or pecan for smoke. Smoke the pork steaks for 60 minutes and then paint with barbecue sauce. Finish cooking the pork steaks (another 10-20 minutes) until an internal temperature of 145°F is reached.
Preparing Your Pork Steaks
Before you start cooking your pork steaks on a Traeger grill, it’s important to properly prepare them. One method is to season the pork steaks with a pork and poultry rub and slather them with mustard. This will help keep the meat moist and add a delicious flavor.
Once your pork steaks are seasoned, it’s time to preheat your Traeger grill to 180°F and let it heat up for 15 minutes with the lid closed. If you want an extra smoky flavor, use Super Smoke if available.
Arrange the pork steaks directly on the grill grates and insert a probe horizontally into the thickest part of a steak, avoiding the bone. Close the lid and smoke for 1 1/2 hours.
After 1 1/2 hours, transfer the pork steaks to a plate and increase the Traeger temperature to 225°F. Preheat for 5-10 minutes. Meanwhile, wrap each steak in aluminum foil, adding 2 tablespoons of apple juice to each foil packet before sealing.
Return the steaks to the grill, close the lid, and cook for another 45 minutes. Unwrap the pork steaks from the foil, place them directly on the grill grates, and reinsert the probe. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, about 15 minutes more.
Once your pork steaks are fully cooked, brush both sides with your favorite BBQ sauce before removing them from the grill. Let them rest for 3 minutes before serving with additional BBQ sauce on the side. Alternatively, you can also season both sides of the pork steaks with a dry rub and let them rest for 30 minutes before smoking them at 250°F for an hour and then finishing them with BBQ sauce until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
Seasoning Your Pork Steaks
When it comes to seasoning your pork steaks, the possibilities are endless. One option is to use a pork and poultry rub, which adds a delicious flavor and helps keep the meat moist. You can also make your own seasoning blend using pantry staples like smoked paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, dried thyme, and dried oregano.
To apply the seasoning, simply rub it onto both sides of the pork steaks, making sure to coat them evenly. Let the steaks rest for at least 30 minutes before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
If you prefer a smoky flavor, consider using wood pellets like hickory or pecan when smoking your pork steaks. You can also add a tablespoon of liquid smoke to your seasoning blend for an extra kick of flavor.
Remember to always use a meat thermometer to ensure that your pork steaks are cooked to the appropriate temperature (145°F for medium-rare). Once they’re done, brush them with your favorite BBQ sauce and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Choosing The Right Temperature
Choosing the right temperature is crucial when cooking pork steaks on a Traeger grill.
For the initial smoking phase, it’s recommended to set the grill temperature to 180°F. This low temperature allows the pork steaks to absorb the smoky flavor slowly without drying out.
After the smoking phase, increase the temperature to 225°F for the final cooking phase. This higher temperature will help to cook the pork steaks thoroughly and give them a nice caramelized exterior while still keeping them moist and tender.
It’s important to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork steaks. The USDA recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of 145°F, which should be reached during the final cooking phase.
Remember that overcooking pork steaks can result in a dry and tough texture, so it’s important to monitor the internal temperature and remove them from the grill once they reach 145°F.
By following these temperature guidelines, you can ensure that your Traeger-grilled pork steaks come out perfectly cooked every time with a delicious smoky flavor.
Smoking Vs. Grilling Pork Steaks
When it comes to cooking pork steaks, there are two main methods: smoking and grilling. While both methods can yield delicious results, there are some key differences to consider.
Smoking pork steaks involves cooking them low and slow over indirect heat, usually with wood chips or pellets for added flavor. This method can take several hours, but results in tender, juicy meat with a smoky flavor. Smoking is a great option for those who want to infuse their pork steaks with a deep, rich flavor and don’t mind waiting for the meat to cook.
On the other hand, grilling pork steaks involves cooking them quickly over direct heat, usually on a gas or charcoal grill. This method is faster than smoking and can be done in as little as 10-15 minutes, making it a great option for those who want a quick and easy meal. Grilling also results in a nice char on the outside of the meat, which some people prefer.
Ultimately, the choice between smoking and grilling comes down to personal preference. If you have the time and want to infuse your pork steaks with a smoky flavor, smoking is the way to go. If you’re short on time but still want a delicious meal, grilling is a great option. Experiment with both methods to find out which one you prefer!
Adding BBQ Sauce To Your Pork Steaks
Adding BBQ sauce to your pork steaks is a great way to enhance the flavor and add some moisture. There are a few different ways to do this, depending on your personal preference.
One option is to baste the pork steaks with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking. This will create a sticky, sweet glaze on the outside of the meat. To do this, simply brush both sides of the pork steaks with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking.
Another option is to wrap the pork steaks in foil with BBQ sauce before cooking. This will create a more tender, juicy result. To do this, place each pork steak on a piece of foil large enough to wrap around it. Brush both sides of the pork steak with BBQ sauce, then wrap it tightly in the foil. Place the foil-wrapped pork steaks on the grill and cook until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
Finally, you can also serve BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. This allows each person to add as much or as little sauce as they like. Simply place a bowl of your favorite BBQ sauce on the table alongside the cooked pork steaks.
No matter which method you choose, adding BBQ sauce to your pork steaks is sure to take them to the next level of deliciousness.
Tips For Perfectly Cooked Pork Steaks
When it comes to cooking pork steaks on a Traeger, there are a few tips to keep in mind for perfectly cooked meat.
Firstly, make sure to season your pork steaks well before cooking. A pork and poultry rub is a great option, as it will add flavor and help keep the meat moist.
Secondly, it’s important to use a meat thermometer to ensure that your pork steaks reach the proper internal temperature. The USDA recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of 145°F, measured at the thickest part of the meat.
Thirdly, consider wrapping your pork steaks in aluminum foil during the cooking process. This will help keep them moist and tender, and adding a bit of apple juice or other liquid to the foil packet can add flavor as well.
Finally, don’t forget to let your pork steaks rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Traeger-grilled pork steaks come out perfectly cooked every time.