How to cook steak on pellet grill

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Cooking steak on a pellet grill is a great way to achieve that perfect sear, smoky flavor, and juicy texture. A pellet grill, which is a combination of a smoker and a grill, uses wood pellets to impart flavor and is known for its ability to maintain a consistent temperature, making it a great tool for cooking steak. Whether you prefer your steak rare or well-done, a pellet grill can help you achieve the desired level of doneness while infusing it with rich, smoky flavor.

Which kinds of steak can you cook on a pellet grill?

You can cook various kinds of steak on a pellet grill, including ribeye, sirloin, filet mignon, New York strip, and flank steak. It is important to choose a high-quality cut of meat with good marbling for optimal flavor and tenderness.

Additionally, thicker cuts of steak are better suited for pellet grilling since they require a longer cooking time and can benefit from the smoky flavor imparted by the wood pellets.

Why should you use a pellet grill for cooking steak?

A pellet grill is an excellent tool for cooking steak for several reasons:

  1. Consistent temperature control: Pellet grills are known for their ability to maintain a consistent temperature, which is essential for cooking steak to the desired level of doneness.
  2. Wood-fired flavor: Pellet grills use wood pellets to create heat and smoke, which imparts a unique, smoky flavor to the steak that cannot be replicated with gas grills or stovetops.
  3. Versatility: A pellet grill can be used for both smoking and grilling, which allows you to experiment with different cooking methods and achieve different textures and flavors.
  4. Ease of use: Pellet grills are easy to use and require minimal monitoring, making them ideal for busy cooks who want to achieve excellent results with minimal effort.

Overall, a pellet grill is an excellent tool for cooking steak, providing you with consistent results and delicious, smoky flavor.

How to cook steak on pellet grill

Here’s how to cook steak on a pellet grill:

  1. Preheat the grill: Set the temperature of the pellet grill to 450°F to preheat. This will take approximately 10-15 minutes.
  2. Prepare the steak: Remove the steak from the fridge and let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. Season the steak with salt and pepper, or your favorite steak seasoning.
  3. Sear the steak: Place the steak on the grill grates and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until it has a nice brown crust.
  4. Lower the temperature: Lower the temperature to around 350°F, and continue cooking until the internal temperature of the steak reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature – medium-rare is around 135°F, medium is around 145°F, and well-done is around 160°F.
  5. Rest the steak: Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
  6. Serve: Slice the steak against the grain and serve with your favorite sides.

Note: The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the steak and your preferred level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the steak has reached the desired temperature.

Types of wood for cooking steak on pellet grill

When it comes to cooking steak on a pellet grill, there are a few different types of wood pellets that are commonly used. Here are some options:

  1. Hickory – Hickory wood pellets are a popular choice for cooking steak because they add a rich, smoky flavor to the meat.
  2. Mesquite – Mesquite wood pellets are another great option for cooking steak. They have a strong, bold flavor that can be overwhelming if used in large quantities, but when used sparingly, they can give your steak a nice smoky flavor.
  3. Oak – Oak wood pellets are a milder option than hickory or mesquite. They provide a subtle smoky flavor that won’t overpower the taste of the steak.
  4. Cherry – Cherry wood pellets can add a sweet and fruity flavor to your steak. They pair particularly well with beef, and can give your steak a unique and delicious flavor profile.

Ultimately, the type of wood pellets you use will depend on your personal preference and the flavor profile you’re trying to achieve. Experiment with different types of wood to find the one that works best for you and your steak.

How long does it take to cook steak on pellet grill?

The cooking time for steak on a pellet grill can vary depending on a few different factors, including the thickness of the steak, the desired level of doneness, and the temperature of the grill. As a general rule of thumb, a 1-inch thick steak will take about 12-15 minutes to cook on a pellet grill at 400-450°F (204-232°C) for medium-rare, and longer for higher levels of doneness. Here’s a rough guide for cooking steak on a pellet grill:

  1. Preheat your pellet grill to the desired temperature.
  2. Season your steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
  3. Place the steak directly on the grill grates and cook for 3-5 minutes per side for a medium-rare steak, depending on the thickness.
  4. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 135°F (57°C); for medium, around 145°F (63°C); for medium-well, around 155°F (68°C); and for well-done, around 165°F (74°C).
  5. Once the steak has reached your desired level of doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Remember, cooking times can vary depending on the type of pellet grill you have, as well as other factors, so always use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak is cooked to the desired level of doneness.

Tips for cooking steak on pellet grill

Here are some tips for cooking steak on a pellet grill:

  1. Preheat the grill: Always preheat your pellet grill for at least 10-15 minutes before adding the steak. This ensures that the grill is at the right temperature to sear and cook the steak properly.
  2. Choose the right temperature: Different cuts of steak and desired doneness require different temperatures. For example, a thicker steak will require a lower temperature and longer cooking time to ensure the center is cooked properly without burning the outside. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak and ensure it is cooked to your desired doneness.
  3. Use a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is an essential tool when cooking steak on a pellet grill. It allows you to check the internal temperature of the steak to ensure it is cooked to the desired level of doneness.
  4. Let the steak rest: Once the steak is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and ensures a juicy and flavorful steak.
  5. Experiment with different wood pellets: Different types of wood pellets can impart different flavors to your steak, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different varieties to find your favorite flavor profile.
  6. Don’t be afraid to sear: While a pellet grill may not have the high heat of a traditional grill, you can still achieve a nice sear on your steak by using a cast iron skillet or griddle on the grill grates.
  7. Don’t overcook the steak: Overcooking can result in a tough and dry steak. Aim for the desired level of doneness, and don’t be afraid to take the steak off the grill a few degrees before it reaches the desired internal temperature, as it will continue to cook and rise in temperature as it rests.
 

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