How to Make Perfectly Smoked Pork Steaks on a Pellet Grill

Pork steaks are a beloved and classic BBQ meal. Their rich flavor and tender texture when smoked properly make them an irresistible choice. While you can smoke pork steaks on any type of smoker, using a pellet grill provides some unique benefits. Pellet grills are known for delivering even, consistent heat and infusing food with real hardwood smoke flavor.

In this guide, I’ll walk through the foolproof process for smoking juicy, delicious pork steaks on a pellet grill. From choosing the right cuts to monitoring temps, you’ll learn the best techniques for pellet grill pork steak success. Let’s get started!

Benefits of a Pellet Grill for Smoking Pork Steaks

Pellet grills have risen in popularity in recent years, and for good reason. Unlike charcoal or gas grills, pellet grills use compressed hardwood pellets that give food authentic smoked flavor. The benefits of using a pellet grill for pork steaks include:

• Set it and forget it – Once desired temp is set, pellet grill maintains it automatically throughout the smoke.

• Consistent heat – No huge temperature swings like charcoal; just steady, even heat.

• Flavored smoke – Variety of wood pellet flavors like hickory, apple, mesquite.

• Intensity control – Adjust smoke levels from light to heavy.

• Digital interface – Easy to program exact temp and time.

• Moisture retention – Pellet grill retains moisture better than open flame

Choosing the Right Pork Steaks

The first step is selecting quality pork steaks that will shine when smoked low and slow, Opt for steaks that are

• At least 1-inch thick – Thinner steaks may dry out during long smoking time.

• Well-marbled – Intramuscular fat enhances flavor and moisture.

• Uniform shape – For even cooking; avoid oddly shaped steaks.

• Boneless – Bones may char or burn over extended smoke time.

• Fresh – Bright color without dry edges or dull spots.

Pork shoulder steaks, also called pork blade steaks, work wonderfully. Choose the best quality you can find locally.

Prepping Pork Steaks for the Pellet Grill

Proper prep ensures the best results when smoking pork steaks:

• Trim excess fat – Leave 1⁄4 inch layer to prevent flare-ups.

• Apply rub – Use a bold, pork-friendly blend.

• Sit overnight – Let rub penetrate meat in fridge for max flavor.

• Come to temp – Let steaks sit out while pellet grill heats up.

A Memphis-style rib rub or sweeter brown sugar-based blend both complement pork wonderfully. Apply rub generously and let it soak in overnight. Bring steaks to room temp before placing them in the preheated grill.

Smoking Process for Pork Steaks

With prep complete, it’s time for the fun part – firing up the pellet grill! Follow these steps:

• Preheat to 225F – Low, slow temp for ideal tenderness.

• Use a blend pellet – Hickory, cherry, apple all pair well with pork.

• Place on grates – No need for additional pans or foil.

• Smoke 2-3 hours – Until internal temp reaches 145F for medium doneness.

• Spritz occasionally – Apple juice or broth helps retain moisture.

• Rest 10 minutes – Allows juices to reabsorb for moist, tender steak.

Maintaining even 225F heat is crucial throughout the long smoking time. Pellet grills excel at holding a steady temp.

Internal Temps for Pellet Grill Pork Steaks

A meat thermometer is a must for monitoring the doneness of pork steaks on a pellet grill. Target these internal temps:

• 140F = Light pink center

• 145F = Pink center

• 160F = Slightly pink throughout

• 170F = No pink throughout

Shoot for at least 145F for safety and a juicy steak. For a firmer, well-done steak, go up to 170F internal temp. Resting will raise the temp slightly too.

Pellet Grill Pork Steak Tips

• Use grill grates vertically for better sear marks.

• Smoke then quickly sear over high heat for texture contrast.

• Glaze with BBQ sauce last 30 minutes for sticky exterior.

• Mix woods like hickory and fruit wood for balanced smoke flavor.

• Err on the lower end of temp range; you can always cook longer.

• Let steaks rest at least 10 minutes before slicing for juiciness.

Favorite Pellet Grill Pork Steak Recipes

Mix up your next pork steak smoke session with these flavorful recipes:

• Coffee-Chile Rubbed – The caffeinated kick complements the pork.

• Sweet & Smoky – Brown sugar and honey in the rub caramelize beautifully.

• Cider-Brined – An apple cider soak makes pork extra juicy.

• Kansas City Classic – Go sweet & tangy with hickory smoke.

• Jamaican Jerk Spice – Warm allspice, thyme and heat.

Smoking pork steaks on a pellet grill results in finger-licking, melt-in-your-mouth BBQ perfection. The steady, controlled heat gently cooks the pork while infusing incredible flavor. With quality pork steaks, a simple savory rub, and your trusty pellet grill, you’ll turn out incredible smoked pork steaks that your whole family will devour. Fire up those wood pellets and enjoy backyard pork steak heaven!