By Bill Ohaire | Published: April 2026 | Last Updated: April 2026
Quick Answer
BBQ Porterhouse (AU) for 4-5 min/side over direct heat at 230-260°C (450-500°F). Internal temp: 60-63°C (140-145°F). Rest for 5-8 min.
Porterhouse (AU) BBQ Cooking Times
Here is everything you need to know about cooking sirloin steak (porterhouse (au)) on the BBQ. We cover direct grilling, indirect heat, and smoking times with temperatures in Celsius (and Fahrenheit) so you get perfect results every time.
| Method | Temperature | Time |
| Direct Grilling | 230-260°C (450-500°F) | 4-5 min/side |
| Indirect Heat | 230-260°C (450-500°F) | 12-15 min total |
Thickness: 2.5cm (1 inch) | Rest time: 5-8 min
Internal Temperature Guide
Use a calibrated digital meat thermometer for accuracy. Insert the probe into the thickest part of the meat, away from bone or fat pockets, which can give false readings.
| Doneness | Internal Temperature |
| Rare | 49-51°C (120-125°F) |
| Medium-Rare | 54-57°C (130-135°F) |
| Medium | 60-63°C (140-145°F) |
| Medium-Well | 65-68°C (150-155°F) |
| Well Done | 71°C+ (160°F+) |
Food Safety
Whole muscle cuts of beef are safe at 63°C (145°F) with a 3-minute rest, according to food safety authorities. Use a calibrated meat thermometer in the thickest part, away from bone.
Tips for Perfect Porterhouse (AU)
Pro Tip
A leaner cut than ribeye. Benefits from a light oil coating. Great value steak for BBQ.
Temperature accuracy matters more than timing. Factors like wind, ambient temperature, grill type, and meat thickness all affect cook times. Always verify doneness with a thermometer rather than relying solely on the clock. — AmazingRibs.com
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking — leans towards tough when well done
- Skipping the rest period
- Using a fork to flip — pierces the meat
How to BBQ Porterhouse (AU) — Step by Step
- Prep: Bring the sirloin steak to room temperature 20-30 minutes before cooking. Pat dry with paper towel and season generously.
- Preheat: Get your BBQ to 230-260°C (450-500°F). Set up a two-zone fire with direct and indirect heat areas.
- Cook: Place over direct heat and cook for 4-5 min/side. Flip once.
- Check temp: Use a digital thermometer. Target 60-63°C (140-145°F) in the thickest part.
- Rest: Remove from heat and rest for 5-8 min before cutting or serving. The internal temperature will rise 2-3°C during rest.
Compare: Other Beef Cuts
See how porterhouse (au) compares to other popular beef cuts on the BBQ:
Scotch Fillet
4-5 min/side
230-260°C (450-500°F)
T-Bone Steak
5-6 min/side
230-260°C (450-500°F)
Rump Steak
3-4 min/side
230-260°C (450-500°F)
View all cooking times →
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long do you BBQ sirloin steak?
Grill sirloin steak for 4-5 min/side over direct heat at 230-260°C (450-500°F). Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 60-63°C (140-145°F).
These times assume 2.5cm (1 inch) thickness at room temperature. Colder meat straight from the fridge can add 25-50% more time. Wind, lid position, and fuel type also affect total cook time significantly.
Source: AmazingRibs.com — The Science of BBQ
What temperature should sirloin steak be when cooked?
The safe internal temperature for sirloin steak is 60-63°C (140-145°F). Use a digital meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat, away from any bone.
Whole muscle cuts are safe at lower temperatures than minced products because bacteria only exists on the exterior surface, which is killed by searing.
Source: Food Standards Australia New Zealand
How long should sirloin steak rest after BBQ?
Rest sirloin steak for 5-8 min after removing from the BBQ. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier, more flavourful result. The internal temperature will continue to rise 2-3°C during this time.
Resting works because heat drives moisture towards the centre of the meat during cooking. As the meat cools slightly during rest, the muscle fibres relax and reabsorb that moisture evenly. Cutting too early means those juices pour onto your board instead of staying in the meat.
Source: Serious Eats — The Food Lab
Should I cook sirloin steak on high or low heat?
Cook sirloin steak over high direct heat (230-260°C (450-500°F)) for the best sear and flavour.
High heat creates the Maillard reaction — the complex browning that produces hundreds of flavour compounds on the surface. This requires temperatures above 140°C (285°F) and dry surfaces.
Source: Meat & Livestock Australia
Related BBQ Guides
Sources & References
3
Guga Foods (YouTube)
Premium beef experiments — dry ageing, wagyu, and creative steak techniques.
Video
4
Serious Eats
Kenji Lopez-Alt's food science approach to grilling the perfect steak.
Reference