How To Cook Steak on a Pellet Grill

Few things beat the satisfaction of slicing into a perfectly cooked steak. When you add the deep, smoky flavour that comes from a pellet grill, the experience reaches another level. Whether you’re new to pellet grilling or looking to refine your skills, this guide will help you cook steak on a pellet grill with confidence.

Step 1: Choose the Right Cut

The best steak starts with the right cut. Here are three cuts that work especially well on a pellet grill:

Flat Iron: Well-marbled and flavourful
New York Strip: Leaner with a firm texture
Filet Mignon: Incredibly tender with a buttery finish

Aim for steaks that are at least one inch thick. Thicker cuts help lock in juices while allowing a rich crust to form.

Prep Tips:

Pat the steak dry using paper towels. Moisture on the surface prevents a good sear.
Season well with salt and pepper, or use a favourite rub. Let the meat shine with simple seasoning or add complexity with bold spice blends.

Step 2: Preheat the Pellet Grill

Preheating your pellet grill is essential. You need high, even heat to get that seared crust on the outside of your steak.

Set-Up Checklist:

Fill the hopper with quality wood pellets such as apple, hickory, or mesquite.
Preheat your grill to 450 to 500°F.
Close the lid and let it come to temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes.

Think of it like using a cast iron skillet. You wouldn’t place your steak on a cold pan, and the same goes for your grill.

Step 3: Sear Your Steak

Once your grill is hot, place the steaks directly on the grate. Let them cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Avoid moving them around too much. A good sear needs direct, uninterrupted heat contact.

Look for those classic grill marks and a rich brown crust. This step adds flavour and texture that define a well-grilled steak.

Step 4: Lower the Temperature

After searing, reduce the grill temperature to 225 to 250°F. This lower heat helps cook the steak evenly to your desired doneness without burning the exterior.

Internal Temperature Guide:

Rare: 120 to 130°F
Medium-Rare: 130 to 135°F
Medium: 135 to 140°F
Medium-Well: 140 to 150°F
Well-Done: 150°F and above

Use a meat thermometer to track doneness. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak for the most accurate reading. For best results, remove the steak a few degrees before your target temperature. The internal heat will continue to rise slightly after you take it off the grill.

Step 5: Let It Rest

This step is just as important as searing. Let your steak rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. Resting helps the juices redistribute so every bite is tender and juicy.

Place the steak on a cutting board and tent it loosely with foil while it rests. Once ready, slice against the grain to maximize tenderness.

Elevate Your Pellet Grilling Experience

A pellet grill brings precision, flavour, and versatility to your outdoor cooking. Once you learn how to cook steak on a pellet grill, you’ll see how easy it is to achieve steakhouse results at home.

At Harding The Fireplace, we offer premium pellet grills and expert advice to help you get started or upgrade your current setup. Whether you’re after bold smoke flavour or temperature precision, we can help you find the right grill and accessories to fit your needs.

To explore a wide range of pellet grills and accessories:

Visit our showroom at 200 Nipissing Ct, Kanata.