How to Cook Steak on the Pellet Grill (Perfect Smoked Steak)

There is nothing quite like a perfectly cooked steak to make a busy weeknight feel like a special occasion. As a busy mom, I know that the goal is always a meal that tastes like a five-star steakhouse, but requires minimal hovering over a hot stove. Using your smoker is the ultimate set it and forget it hack, achieving incredible flavor with very little effort.

Learning how to cook a steak on the pellet grill is a total game-changer at dinner time. I use a simple reverse-sear method that will yield the best deep, smoky infusion that you just can’t replicate with a cast-iron skillet. I also happen to love that when I use my smoker or pellet grill, it keeps my kitchen clean, which is a bonus!

What is a Pellet Grill Steak?

Pellet grill steak is a method of cooking beef where the meat is first slow-smoked at a low temperature to infuse the flavor and ensure even doneness. Once it’s finished low-smoking, then I finish the steak with a high-heat sear. This “reverse sear” technique is loved by home cooks because it yields a consistently tender, juicy steak every single time.

What you’ll love about Smoked Steak

• Foolproof results – This low and slow start prevents the steak from becoming tough or overcooking.
• Pantry staples – Only basic ingredients are required for this tender, juicy meal.
• Hands-off cooking – Let the pellet grill do all the work, it’s very much a hands-off meal.
• Naturally gluten-free – This recipe is naturally gluten-free without any extra ingredients.
• Customizable – This recipe works well with ribeye, New York strip, or even thick-cut sirloin.

Ingredient Notes

• Ribeye Steaks – I recommend a thickness of at least 1 to 1.5 inches for the best smoky flavor.
• Coarse Sea Salt – The sea salt helps dry out the surface of the meat better for a better crust and enhances the natural beef flavor.
• Cracked Black Pepper – This steak provides a classic, bold bite that stands up well to the smoke.

How to Make Steak on the Pellet Grill

1. Season the steaks with salt and place in the fridge for up to 2 hours.
2. Remove from the fridge 1 hour prior to smoking to allow for the meat to come to room temperature.
3. Add the cracked black pepper.
4. Preheat the smoker to 200 degrees F.
5. Place steaks directly on the smoker and smoke until the internal temperature is 120 degrees F. This takes about 20-30 minutes.
6. Remove from the smoker and turn the heat setting of your smoker to 500 degrees F and allow the smoker to come up to temperature.
7. Once at this temp, place steaks on the grill and cook until your desired doneness, about 6-9 minutes.
8. Remove and allow to rest for 10 minutes then serve.

Expert Tips for the Best Smoked Steaks

• Use a Meat Probe – Do not rely on a timer. Using a meat thermometer or a meat probe to measure the exact temperature is necessary before the final sear.
• Resting is Non-Negotiable – Cutting into a steak too early lets all the juices run out. Wait at least 10 minutes for the juices to redistribute before cutting into the steak.
• Use Quality Pellets – Use high-quality hardwood pellets for a clean, smoky flavor.
• Follow the reverse-sear as written. If you throw it on and immediately sear the steak, then you will have a baked steak. The best way to keep that meat from drying out is to force the grill to work against its own design!

Variations and Suggestions

• Butter Finish – Place a little bit of garlic herb butter on the steak while it rests for the steakhouse finish. This is my favorite way to finish these steaks, using my compound butter recipe.
• Different Cuts – This method will work well with a variety of cuts, such as New York Strip, Filet Mignon, and T-Bone Steaks.
• Dry Brine – If you have time, salt the steaks at least 24 hours in advance and leave them uncovered in the fridge for the ultimate crispy crust. This will truly enhance the steaks and give them a restaurant-quality finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What to Serve with Pellet Grill Steak

Steak is perfect to serve with a variety of meals.

Easy Smoked Baked Potatoes

Grilled Corn on the Cob

How to Smoke a Whole Chicken

Best Pellet Grill Ribs

Pellet Grill Smoked Mushrooms

Air Fryer Broccoli Florets

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When ready to reheat, heat at 250 degrees F in the oven for about 10-12 minutes to avoid a rubbery texture.

Cooking steak on the pellet grill doesn’t have to be intimidating. By following this simple reverse-sear method, you can easily prepare a high-quality, flavorful dinner that feels like a real treat!

Remember, the best meals are the ones that allow you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time around the table with the ones you love!