How to Cook Bacon Loin Steaks to Perfection: The Complete Guide

Bacon loin steaks also known as bacon chops are a delicious and versatile cut of meat that can be prepared in many different ways. With their thick cut and steak-like appearance, bacon loin steaks offer a heartier bacon experience compared to regular sliced bacon. Their rich, meaty flavor pairs perfectly with a variety of seasonings and sauces. Whether you prefer your bacon loin steaks grilled, pan-fried, or oven-baked, this complete guide will teach you how to cook them to juicy, flavorful perfection every time.

What are Bacon Loin Steaks?

Bacon loin steaks are premium cuts taken from the pork loin section near the back of the pig They are sliced much thicker than traditional bacon, usually 1 to 1 1⁄2 inches thick When raw, they resemble miniature t-bone steaks, with a bacon “eye” of fat running through the middle.

Compared to regular bacon, bacon loin steaks contain more lean meat and less fat overall. However, the fat that is present helps keep the steaks juicy and infuses them with that signature bacon flavor we all crave.

In terms of prep, bacon loin steaks require very little trimming prior to cooking. Simply pat them dry with paper towels and season as desired. Their uniform shape also allows them to cook quickly and evenly.

Below are some of the most popular methods for cooking up these bacony beauties:

Grilling

The high, dry heat of the grill is perfect for getting a nice char on the outside of bacon loin steaks while keeping the interior moist. Grilling brings out the natural smoky flavors in the pork, accentuated by any rubs or sauces added.

You’ll need:

• Bacon loin steaks, about 1 inch thick
• Vegetable or olive oil
• Desired seasonings – Salt, pepper, brown sugar, herbs, etc.
• Grill cleaned and heated to medium high heat (400-450°F)

Instructions

1. Pat steaks dry with paper towels and brush lightly with oil on both sides. This helps prevent sticking.

2. Generously season both sides with desired rubs or herbs. Some classic combos include brown sugar and pepper, chili powder and lime, or rosemary and garlic.

3. Place steaks directly on grill grates. Close lid and cook for 5-7 minutes on the first side.

4. Flip steaks and cook about 5 minutes on the second side, until browned and firm to the touch.

5. Use tongs to lift steaks and check internal temperature with an instant read thermometer. Remove from grill when they reach 155°F.

6. Let rest 5 minutes before slicing and serving. The internal temperature will rise 5-10 degrees during this time for perfectly cooked bacon.

Get creative with your seasoning blends and add a sauce like barbecue, teriyaki, or bourbon glaze for even more flavor. Grilled bacon steaks also pair well with roasted veggies or greens.

Pan Frying

This stovetop method produces bacon steaks with a crispy seared exterior and tender, juicy interior. Pan frying also allows you to cook the steaks in their rendered bacon fat for the ultimate porky flavor.

You’ll need:

• Bacon loin steaks
• Heavy bottomed skillet or frying pan
• Butter, olive oil, or bacon fat
• Desired seasonings

Instructions:

1. Pat steaks dry thoroughly with paper towels.

2. Place skillet over medium high heat. Add just enough butter, oil or bacon fat to lightly coat the bottom.

3. When oil is shimmering hot, add steaks. Do not overcrowd pan.

4. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, flipping once. Reduce heat if browning too quickly.

5. Continue cooking until deep golden brown and firm to the touch. Bacon should reach an internal temp of 155°F.

6. Transfer steaks to a plate and tent with foil. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

For the perfect pan sauce, remove steaks from pan and add a splash of wine or stock. Scrape up any browned bits in the pan and simmer until reduced. Top bacon steaks with sauce before serving.

Oven Roasting

Roasting in the oven allows you to cook up a large batch of bacon steaks at once – perfect for weekend family meals or entertaining. The dry ambient heat crisps up the exterior while gently cooking the insides.

You’ll need:

• Bacon loin steaks
• Rimmed baking sheet
• Aluminum foil
• Desired seasonings
• Olive oil or cooking spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line baking sheet with foil and lightly coat with oil or spray.

2. Arrange steaks on pan without overcrowding. Brush tops lightly with oil or spray.

3. Generously season both sides with desired herbs, spices, sugar, etc.

4. Roast for 10-15 minutes without flipping. Tops should be lightly browned.

5. Flip steaks over and roast for another 8-10 minutes until firm and bacon reaches 155°F internally.

6. Remove pan from oven, tent with foil and let rest 5 minutes before serving.

The rendered bacon fat from oven roasting can also be used to roast potatoes, Brussels sprouts or other veggies. Try sprinkling steaks with brown sugar, cayenne and cumin for a sweet and spicy combo.

Tips for Cooking Bacon Loin Steaks

• Let steaks sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to prevent cold centers.

• Pat steaks very dry before seasoning or cooking. This helps browning.

• Avoid overcrowding the pan or grill, which steams rather than sears.

• Use a meat thermometer to test doneness. Bacon loin steaks are safe to eat at 155°F.

• Resist the urge to press down on steaks as they cook. This squeezes out juices.

• Always let steaks rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute.

• Add herbs, spices, sugar or sauce in the last few minutes of cooking to prevent burning.

• Cook bacon loin steaks to between 155-165°F for the best texture. Higher temps result in dry, tough meat.

Master these simple methods for grilling, pan frying, and oven roasting and you’ll be able to cook bacon loin steaks to sweet, smoky perfection every time. Experiment with different flavor combinations and serve these hearty bacon steaks as an entree or on salads and sandwiches.

Serving Suggestions for Bacon Loin Steaks

The possibilities are endless when it comes to serving up these tasty grilled, pan fried, or oven roasted bacon steaks. Here are just a few delicious ideas:

• BLT sandwiches – Crisp lettuce, sliced tomatoes, mayo and bacon steaks piled high on toasted bread.

• Potato salad – Dice the steaks and add to potato salad for a smoky, salty crunch.

• Burgers – Top juicy beef burgers with melty cheese and grilled bacon steaks.

• Spinach salad – Toss baby spinach with diced bacon steaks, hard boiled eggs, and warm bacon vinaigrette.

• Eggs Benedict – Replace ham with oven baked bacon steaks on top of poached eggs and English muffins.

• Pasta carbonara – Dice and mix crisp bacon steaks into cheesy carbonara sauce for a smoky twist.

• Pizza – Scatter grilled bacon steaks over pizza and finish with fresh arugula.

• Quesadillas – Stuff quesadillas with crispy crumbled bacon steak, peppers, onions and Mexican cheese.

• Baked potatoes – Top stuffed baked potatoes with crumbled bacon steaks, cheddar cheese, chives and sour cream.

With so many possibilities, you’ll never get bored serving up these bacony marvels. They add a welcome smoky, salty flavor to everything from sandwiches to salads, pasta, pizza and more.

Now that you’re armed with all the proper techniques, it’s time to start cooking up these bacony beauties. Grilled, pan fried or oven roasted, bacon loin steaks are sure to become a regular feature in your kitchen rotation. So get cooking and savor the foolproof methods for preparing these steakhouse-worthy bacon creations. Your tastebuds will thank you with each juicy, porky bite!