How to Cook Baked Pork Steaks in the Oven

There’s no need to become a world-renowned chef to cook pork steaks in the oven. This flavorful and affordable alternative to the usual pork chops benefits from the slow cooking offered by an oven. Similar to how you bake pork chops, baking pork steaks ensures they remain juicy and tender, with specific cooking times and temperatures to prevent overcooking. Marinating the meat and adding just the right seasonings further elevates the everyday dining experience. Pork steaks are generally cut from the shoulder part of the pig and come in both boneless and bone-in options. They’re a good option for people who don’t eat beef or when there’s not enough room in the budget for the finest Top Sirloin Steak.

Understanding Pork Steaks

Pork steaks are a delightful cut of meat typically taken from the shoulder or loin area of the pig. Known for their rich flavor and tender texture, pork steaks are a versatile choice for a variety of recipes. Whether you prefer grilling, pan-frying, or baking, understanding the different types of pork steaks is key to achieving the best results. When baking pork steaks, it’s essential to recognize the differences between boneless and bone-in options, as well as the varying thicknesses, to ensure a perfectly cooked dish every time.

Preparing Pork Steaks for the Oven

For a more flavorful pork steak with extra juiciness, consider brining the meat or using a marinade. Choosing the right baking dish is crucial to ensure the pork chops cook evenly and retain their juices during the baking process. Dry brining is as simple as rubbing Kosher salt over the surface of the pork steaks and letting them sit overnight in the refrigerator before cooking. Make sure to use a rub or seasoning that doesn’t have additional salt with these methods. For marinades, simply soak the pork steaks for 12 to 24 hours before cooking in your preferred mix. Make sure to let the pork steaks warm up slightly and reach room temperature before you put them in the oven.

Tips and Tricks for Perfection

Cooking pork steaks is a fairly foolproof process. Adding garlic powder to your seasoning mix can enhance the flavor of the pork steaks. There are a few other tricks that can take this dish from tasty to amazing while making it less work for you to finish on a busy day.

Using the Right Baking Dish

This method is a form of braising, so you’ll need a pan with enough depth to hold at least a small amount of liquid. Using the right pan is crucial for achieving perfectly cooked oven baked pork. Standard baking sheets are likely too shallow and will either spill when you remove them from the oven or cause the liquid to evaporate while leaving the pork steaks drier than intended. A shallow roasting pan, Dutch oven without the lid, or glass casserole dish will work best to braise the pork steaks and capture all the flavorful liquids to keep them juicy and tasty.

Adding Liquids

It’s possible to cook pork steaks on a baking sheet or pan with only parchment paper or a little oil to keep them from sticking, similar to oven baked pork chops. However, this tends to lead to a drier and less flavorful finished cut of meat that might be a little tough as well. Adding flavorful liquids or even just a little water helps braise the pork steaks instead. This is the key to cooking pork steaks in the oven with the best results.

To Flip or Not to Flip

In most cases, there’s little need to flip the pork steaks once they’re in the oven. Browning the meat ahead of time will ensure an even sear on both sides. If you want extra flavor from the cooking juices, you can flip the pork steaks once halfway through the cooking time. Using a rub on both sides or marinating the meat reduces the need to flip for good flavor distribution.

Cooking Time and Temperature

The cooking time and temperature for baked pork steaks can vary based on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. As a general rule, aim to cook pork steaks to an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) to ensure they are safe to eat. For thin pork steaks, a cooking time of 12-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C) usually suffices. Thicker pork steaks may require 20-25 minutes at 350°F (180°C). Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, ensuring your pork steak reaches the safe minimum temperature for a juicy and flavorful result.

Recipe Variations

This method for seasoning pork steaks cooked in the oven will produce a well-rounded flavor profile. If you’re more of a fan of barbecue or teriyaki flavors, it’s easy to adjust the recipe as you desire with your favorite seasonings and sauces.

Seasoning and Marinade Ideas

• Use a barbecue rub that is heavy in cumin, brown sugar, and chili powder, and try a combination of beef broth instead of soy sauce and barbecue sauce in place of the honey
• Sprinkle garlic, pepper, and five spice powder on the pork steaks and then use a prepared teriyaki sauce in place of the liquid ingredients
• Marinate the meat in teriyaki sauce, soy sauce mixed with a little lime juice, or your favorite garlic and herb combination. Bone-in pork chops can benefit from a longer marination time to enhance their flavor.

Side Dishes to Serve with Pork Steaks

Pork steaks pair well with a wide range of side dishes. Round out your new favorite meal with a big batch of sauteed cabbage, bacon optional. Au gratin potatoes are a creamy and cheesy side that brings out the richer side of the steaks. Coleslaw is another good cabbage-based option that pairs with this recipe in particular. For a lighter pairing, mix up a spinach and green apple salad topped with roasted nuts and a lively vinaigrette. Mashed potatoes and cornbread stuffing are two carb options that make a weeknight meal feel more special.

Oven Cooked Pork Steak Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 lbs of pork steaks, usually around 4
• 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 clove of garlic, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Remove the pork steaks from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature. Combine the spices and rub them all over the surface of the meat. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

2. Heat a cast iron or frying pan on the stovetop. Add the 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sear each pork steak for 1 to 2 minutes per side or until lightly browned.

3. Place the pork steaks in a roasting pan or glass casserole dish. Pour the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and honey into the dish and mix well.

4. Cook for 35 to 45 minutes depending on the thickness of the pork steaks. Ensure an internal temperature of 145 degrees F or above.

Notes

You can thicken the sauce if you want to serve it over noodles or mashed potatoes. If you brine or marinate the meat, consider swapping the soy sauce for a liquid with less sodium like beef broth.

Storage and Reheating

Proper storage and reheating are crucial to maintaining the quality of your baked pork steaks. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat the pork steaks in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can use the microwave or stovetop, but be cautious not to overcook the meat, as this can lead to dryness. By following these tips, you can savor the deliciousness of your baked pork steaks even after the initial meal.

Conclusion

Braised pork steaks turn out tender and juicy. Switch up the seasoning and marinade options and you’ll never run out of new ideas for dinner.