How Long to Cook Steak on Pellet Grill at 350

You’ll want to cook a 1-inch thick steak on your pellet grill at 350°F for about 6 to 8 minutes per side to reach medium-rare.

Thicker cuts need a bit longer, around 8 to 12 minutes per side, to cook evenly.

Make sure to bring your steak to room temperature and season it well before grilling.

Keep your grill temperature steady and rest the steak a few minutes afterwards for juicy results.

Keep going to discover tips for perfect searing and temperature control.

Selecting the Right Cut of Steak for Pellet Grilling

When choosing a steak for your pellet grill, you want a cut that balances flavor and tenderness. Ribeye, New York strip, and sirloin are excellent choices because they offer rich marbling that melts during cooking, enhancing juiciness and taste.

If you prefer something leaner, filet mignon works well but requires careful attention to avoid drying out. Keep in mind that thicker cuts respond better to pellet grilling, as they cook evenly without overcooking the exterior. Avoid very thin steaks, which can easily become tough or charred.

Preparing Your Steak Before Grilling

Choosing the right cut sets the foundation, but how you prepare your steak before it hits the pellet grill makes all the difference. To guarantee a juicy, flavorful steak, start by bringing it to room temperature. This helps it cook evenly.

Next, season generously with salt and pepper or your favorite dry rub to enhance the natural flavors. Don’t forget to pat your steak dry with paper towels; moisture on the surface can interfere with searing and create steam instead of a crust.

Here’s a quick checklist to get your steak grill-ready:

• Bring steak to room temperature for even cooking.
• Pat dry to promote a perfect sear.
• Season liberally with salt, pepper, or a dry rub.

These steps set you up for grilling success.

Recommended Cooking Times for Different Steak Thicknesses

Although pellet grills cook steak gently and evenly, the thickness of your cut greatly affects how long you should leave it on the grill at 350°F. For a 1-inch thick steak, you’ll want to grill it for about 6 to 8 minutes per side.

If your steak is thicker, say 1.5 inches, increase the time to roughly 8 to 10 minutes per side to ensure it cooks through. For cuts that are 2 inches or more, plan on grilling 10 to 12 minutes per side.

Keep in mind, these are general guidelines; factors like steak type and grill model may cause slight variations. Adjust your timing accordingly, and always monitor your steak to avoid overcooking.

Achieving Desired Doneness Levels on a Pellet Grill

To nail your desired doneness on a pellet grill, you’ll want to focus on temperature guidelines and cooking time estimates. Keep an eye on the internal temperature targets for each level, from rare to well-done.

This helps you cook your steak perfectly every time at 350°F.

Temperature Guidelines

When you grill steak at 350°F on a pellet grill, understanding the right internal temperatures is key to hitting your preferred doneness. Using a reliable meat thermometer, you can check the steak’s internal temperature to confirm it’s cooked just the way you like it.

Here are the temperature guidelines you should aim for:

• Rare: 120-125°F warm red center, very juicy
• Medium Rare: 130-135°F warm pink center, tender and juicy
• Medium: 140-145°F pink center, firmer texture

Remember to remove the steak from the grill about 5°F before your target temperature, as it will continue to cook while resting. This approach guarantees a perfectly cooked steak every time.

Cooking Time Estimates

How long should you cook your steak at 350°F on a pellet grill to reach the perfect doneness? Generally, a 1-inch thick steak will take about 6 to 8 minutes per side for medium-rare.

If you prefer medium, extend the cooking time to around 8 to 10 minutes per side. For rare steaks, aim for 4 to 5 minutes per side. Keep in mind that thicker cuts need more time, while thinner ones cook faster.

Also, flipping your steak halfway ensures even cooking and better grill marks. Using these time estimates, you can adjust based on your steak’s thickness and your desired doneness level.

Internal Temperature Targets

Although cooking times provide a helpful guideline, you’ll achieve the best results by monitoring your steak’s internal temperature. This guarantees you hit the perfect doneness without guesswork. Use a reliable meat thermometer to check the temperature as you cook on your pellet grill at 350°F.

Here are the key internal temperatures to aim for:

• Rare: 120-125°F – cool red center, very juicy
• Medium Rare: 130-135°F – warm red center, tender and juicy
• Medium: 140-145°F – warm pink center, firmer texture

Remember to let your steak rest for about 5 minutes after grilling; the internal temperature will rise slightly, locking in juices for a flavorful bite every time.

Tips for Maintaining Consistent Temperature at 350°F

To keep your pellet grill steady at 350°F, make sure you have enough pellets on hand to avoid interruptions. Use a quality thermometer to monitor the temperature accurately throughout the cook.

Don’t forget to adjust the grill’s ventilation if you notice any temperature fluctuations.

Monitor Pellet Supply

When you keep a close eye on your pellet supply, you’ll prevent temperature drops that can ruin your steak’s cooking time and quality. Running out of pellets mid-cook causes the grill to cool down, interrupting the steady 350°F you need. To maintain consistent heat, check the hopper frequently during longer cooks and refill it before it gets too low.

Here are some quick tips to help you monitor your pellet supply effectively:

• Keep extra pellets nearby to avoid running out unexpectedly.
• Use a clear or see-through hopper cover if possible for easy visual checks.
• Set reminders to check the pellet level every 20-30 minutes during cooking.

Use Quality Thermometer

A quality thermometer plays a crucial role in keeping your pellet grill steady at 350°F. You need accurate temperature readings to make quick adjustments and avoid undercooked or overcooked steak.

Invest in a digital or wireless thermometer with a reliable probe that can endure high heat. Place the probe in the thickest part of the steak or near the grill grate to monitor the ambient temperature.

Check the thermometer regularly to guarantee the grill maintains a consistent 350°F throughout cooking. Avoid opening the grill lid frequently, as this causes temperature fluctuations.

With a dependable thermometer, you’ll get precise feedback and control, making it easier to produce a perfectly cooked steak every time on your pellet grill.

Adjust Grill Ventilation

Although pellet grills are designed for steady heat, you’ll need to adjust the vents to maintain a consistent 350°F. Proper ventilation controls airflow, which directly affects the temperature inside the grill. If your grill is running too hot, slightly close the exhaust vent to reduce oxygen flow.

If it’s too cool, open the vents more to increase airflow and fuel combustion. Keep a close eye on your grill’s temperature gauge as you make these adjustments.

Here are some quick tips:

• Start with vents about halfway open for balanced airflow
• Make small, gradual changes to avoid sudden temperature swings
• Monitor the temperature for 10-15 minutes after each adjustment to stabilize

This way, you’ll keep your pellet grill steady at 350°F for perfectly cooked steak.

Resting and Serving Your Perfectly Grilled Steak

Since the juices need time to redistribute, you’ll want to let your steak rest for about 5 to 10 minutes after grilling. This resting period allows the meat fibers to relax and reabsorb the flavorful juices, ensuring each bite stays moist and tender. Don’t skip this step, or you’ll end up with a dry steak.

Tent your steak loosely with foil to keep it warm while resting.

When it’s time to serve, slice against the grain to maximize tenderness. Pair your steak with your favorite sides and sauces for a complete meal. Enjoying your perfectly grilled steak right after resting guarantees the best texture and flavor.

This simple step makes all the difference in your pellet-grilled steak experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Wood Pellets With Different Flavors for Grilling Steak?

Yes, you can use wood pellets with different flavors for grilling steak. Just pick flavors that complement your meat, like hickory or mesquite, and enjoy experimenting to find your perfect smoky taste on the pellet grill.

How Do Pellet Grills Compare to Charcoal Grills for Steak Cooking?

You’ll find pellet grills offer consistent temperature control and ease, while charcoal grills give a smoky, intense flavor with more hands-on management. Both can cook great steak, but pellet grills suit convenience, charcoal excels in traditional taste.

Is It Safe to Leave a Pellet Grill Unattended While Cooking Steak?

You shouldn’t leave your pellet grill unattended while cooking steak; you need to monitor temperature, watch for flare-ups, and guarantee safety. Staying present prevents accidents, maintains flavor, and ensures your steak cooks perfectly every time.

What Accessories Enhance Pellet Grill Steak Cooking?

You’ll want a good meat thermometer, grill gloves, and a cast iron skillet to sear steaks perfectly.

A pellet grill cover and drip pan also help maintain heat and reduce flare-ups, enhancing your cooking experience.

How to Clean a Pellet Grill After Cooking Steak?

You’ll want to start by letting your pellet grill cool down. Then, brush the grates clean, empty the ash from the firepot, and wipe down surfaces.

Regular cleaning keeps your grill performing great and your steak tasting perfect.

Conclusion

As you pull your steak off the glowing pellet grill, imagine that perfect crust locking in juicy flavors, the aroma filling the air like a warm invitation. Cooking at 350°F gives you control, whether you want a tender medium-rare or a well-done bite.

Let it rest, juices settling like a calm after the sizzle. Soon, you’ll savor every mouthwatering slice, knowing you mastered the art of grilling right in your backyard.