Boston butt, also known as pork shoulder, makes for incredibly flavorful and tender steaks when cooked properly. This tough cut benefits from braising, grilling or roasting low and slow. Follow this guide to learn how to prepare and cook boston butt pork steaks three ways – on the stove, grill and in the oven.
What is Boston Butt?
Boston butt is a pork shoulder roast that is cut into steaks containing a cross section of bone, fat and meat. It comes from the upper part of the front leg of the pig. This area gets a lot of exercise, so the meat is tough, but very flavorful.
Boston butt steaks are sometimes confused with pork blade steaks. Blade steak comes from the shoulder blade and contains a higher ratio of bone to meat. For best results look for a Boston butt pork steak with plenty of marbling and a thick cut.
Benefits of Cooking Boston Butt Pork Steaks
There are many advantages to cooking with Boston butt steaks
- Inexpensive cut yet full of flavor
- Marbling provides moisture and porky flavor
- Connective tissue breaks down into gelatin
- Versatile for grilling, braising, roasting
- Makes delicious leftovers for sandwiches
While not as quick cooking as chops or tenderloin, Boston butt rewards patience with amazing texture and taste. Slow cooking brings out the best in this cut.
How to Prepare Boston Butt Pork Steaks
Preparing the steaks takes just a few easy steps:
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels
- Trim off any excess hard fat or silver skin
- Generously season both sides with salt, pepper and other spices
- Allow to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking
- Score fat cap in criss-cross pattern to help render fat
Scoring the fat helps it slowly baste the meat as it cooks. Apply rubs or marinades before cooking for maximum flavor.
How to Cook Boston Butt Pork Steaks on the Stove
Braising on the stovetop is a simple hands-off cooking method.
Ingredients:
- 2 lb Boston butt pork steaks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 cup chicken or beef broth
- Spice rub or marinade
Instructions:
- Pat steaks dry and season all over with spice rub.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Brown steaks 2-3 minutes per side.
- Add onions and cook 2 minutes until softened. Pour in broth.
- Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer 60-90 minutes until fork tender.
- Remove steaks to a plate and tent with foil.
- Simmer liquid to reduce to a sauce consistency.
- Serve steaks topped with sauce.
The slow simmering tenderizes the meat while the boneless cooks down into a rich, flavorful gravy.
How to Grill Boston Butt Pork Steaks
Grilling brings out delicious charred flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 lb Boston butt pork steaks
- Olive oil
- Sweet and spicy rub
- BBQ sauce
Instructions:
- Prepare a medium-hot grill, around 400°F.
- Coat both sides of steaks with olive oil and season with dry rub.
- Grill steaks 4-5 minutes per side until nicely seared.
- Move steaks to indirect heat, close lid and grill 20-25 minutes until 165°F internal temperature.
- Glaze steaks on both sides with BBQ sauce during last 5 minutes.
- Remove from grill and let rest 5 minutes before serving.
The two-zone direct and indirect grilling gives you the best of both worlds – searing and gentle cooking.
How to Roast Boston Butt Pork Steaks
Roasting in the oven results in tender steaks encrusted with crispy seasoned bits.
Ingredients:
- 2 lb Boston butt pork steaks
- Paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper
- Onion and lime marinade
Instructions:
- Combine spices for a dry rub. Pat steaks dry and coat all over with spice rub.
- Lay steaks in a baking dish and spread onion-lime marinade on top.
- Roast at 350°F for 20 minutes, then reduce heat to 300°F.
- Continue roasting 40-60 minutes until steaks register 195°F internally.
- Remove from oven and tent foil over steaks to rest for 10 minutes before serving.
The initial high heat helps crisp and caramelize the outside before the lower temperature gently brings the inside up to temperature.
Tips for Cooking Boston Butt Pork Steaks
- Look for steaks 1-2 inches thick for best results
- Reserve any bone fragments to add to beans or soup stock
- Let meat come to room temp before cooking for even heating
- Use leftover cooked Boston butt steaks for tacos, sandwiches, chili and more!
How to Tell When Boston Butt Pork Steaks Are Done
These methods ensure your steaks are cooked through without overcooking:
- Use instant read thermometer, aim for 195°F – 205°F
- Check for visual signs like crispy exterior or juices running clear
- Test doneness by poking with finger – should feel very tender
- Attempt to shred a small piece with two forks – it should pull apart easily
Allow the cooked steaks to rest at least 5-10 minutes before slicing into them. This allows juices to redistribute through the meat for best texture.
Common Questions
What’s the difference between Boston butt and pork shoulder steaks?
Both come from the shoulder. Boston butt is higher up near the neck. Shoulder comes from lower nearer the front leg. Either works well!
Can you marinate Boston butt steaks?
Absolutely! A marinade adds a ton of flavor. Let them soak 4-12 hours before cooking.
What’s the best way to sear Boston butt steaks?
Use a very hot cast iron skillet with a little oil. 60-90 seconds per side is plenty to develop a nice brown crust.
What sides go well with Boston butt pork steaks?
Classic barbecue pairings like coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread and mashed potatoes. Fresh greens add a nice bright contrast.
Is Boston butt the same as a pork butt roast?
Yes! Pork butt roast is just a full Boston butt that hasn’t been sliced into steaks yet. Both benefit from low and slow cooking.
Conclusion
Boston butt pork steaks have outstanding flavor when braised, grilled or roasted until fall-apart tender. Allow plenty of time for the connective tissue to break down during cooking for the best results. Pair these savory, succulent steaks with classic barbecue side dishes and enjoy the delicious leftovers all week long.