How Long Should You Cook Steak on a Pellet Grill at 350°F?

AvatarByNora Gaines General Cooking Queries

Cooking the perfect steak on a pellet grill is a rewarding experience that combines the rich, smoky flavors of wood-fired cooking with the convenience of modern technology. If you’re wondering how long to cook steak on a pellet grill at 350°F, you’re tapping into a popular method that balances steady heat with mouthwatering results. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a backyard enthusiast, mastering this technique can elevate your steak game to new heights.

Pellet grills offer precise temperature control and consistent heat distribution, making them ideal for cooking steaks evenly and to your preferred level of doneness. Cooking at 350°F is a sweet spot that allows the steak to sear beautifully while developing a tender, juicy interior. However, the exact cooking time can vary depending on factors such as steak thickness, cut, and personal taste preferences.

Understanding how to navigate these variables is key to achieving steak perfection on your pellet grill. In the sections ahead, we’ll explore the nuances of timing, temperature, and technique to help you confidently grill steaks that impress every time. Whether you like your steak rare, medium, or well-done, knowing how long to cook it at 350°F will be your secret weapon for flavorful, satisfying results.

Cooking Times and Temperature Guidelines for Steak on a Pellet Grill at 350°F

When cooking steak on a pellet grill set to 350°F, the cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness. Pellet grills provide consistent heat, allowing for even cooking and a smoky flavor. However, it is important to monitor internal temperatures rather than relying solely on cooking time to achieve the perfect steak.

For a steak cooked at 350°F, the general guideline is as follows:

  • Thickness of steak: Thicker cuts will require more time to reach the desired internal temperature.
  • Doneness preference: Rare, medium-rare, medium, medium-well, and well-done steaks all require different internal temperatures and thus different cooking durations.
  • Resting time: Always rest the steak after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, typically for about 5-10 minutes.

The following table provides estimated cooking times for various steak thicknesses and doneness levels when grilled at 350°F:

Steak Thickness Doneness Internal Temperature (°F) Cooking Time per Side (minutes) Total Cooking Time (minutes)
1 inch Rare 120-125 3-4 6-8
1 inch Medium Rare 130-135 4-5 8-10
1 inch Medium 140-145 5-6 10-12
1 inch Medium Well 150-155 6-7 12-14
1 inch Well Done 160+ 7-8 14-16
1.5 inch Rare 120-125 4-5 8-10
1.5 inch Medium Rare 130-135 5-6 10-12
1.5 inch Medium 140-145 6-7 12-14
1.5 inch Medium Well 150-155 7-8 14-16
1.5 inch Well Done 160+ 8-9 16-18

Tips for Achieving Perfect Steak on a Pellet Grill

To optimize your steak cooking experience at 350°F on a pellet grill, consider these expert tips:

  • Preheat the grill: Allow the pellet grill to fully preheat to 350°F before placing the steak on the grates. This ensures even cooking and proper searing.
  • Use a meat thermometer: To guarantee accuracy in doneness, use a reliable instant-read or probe thermometer to check the internal temperature.
  • Sear for crust development: Although 350°F is moderate heat, you can finish the steak by increasing the grill temperature or using a cast iron skillet to sear both sides for 1-2 minutes for a caramelized crust.
  • Flip only once: Turn the steak once halfway through the cooking time to maintain juices and promote even cooking.
  • Rest the steak: After removing from the grill, tent the steak loosely with foil and rest for 5-10 minutes to allow redistribution of juices.
  • Season adequately: Salt the steak at least 40 minutes before grilling or just before placing it on the grill for enhanced flavor and moisture retention.

Factors Affecting Cooking Time on a Pellet Grill

Several variables can influence how long it takes to cook steak at 350°F on a pellet grill:

  • Steak type and fat content: Cuts like ribeye with higher fat content may cook faster and provide more flavor, while leaner cuts like sirloin require careful monitoring.
  • Starting temperature of steak: Allow steaks to come to room temperature before grilling to ensure more even cooking.
  • Grill model and pellet type: Different pellet grill brands and models may have slight temperature fluctuations. Additionally, the type of wood pellet (hickory, mesquite, applewood) can affect heat intensity and flavor.
  • Weather conditions: Wind, ambient temperature, and humidity can impact grill temperature stability and cooking time.
  • Personal preference: Some individuals may prefer a slight char or additional smoke flavor, which may require adjusting cooking time and grill

Optimal Cooking Time for Steak on a Pellet Grill at 350°F

Cooking steak on a pellet grill set to 350°F requires balancing heat exposure to achieve the desired doneness while maintaining juiciness and flavor. The cooking time varies depending on the steak’s thickness, cut, and preferred internal temperature.

At a steady 350°F, the pellet grill provides indirect heat, which gently cooks the steak. This temperature is ideal for a controlled cook that avoids excessive charring while allowing the Maillard reaction to develop a rich crust.

General Cooking Times by Steak Thickness

Steak Thickness Approximate Cooking Time per Side Total Cooking Time Target Internal Temperature
1 inch 4-5 minutes 8-10 minutes Medium Rare: 130-135°F
1.5 inches 6-7 minutes 12-14 minutes Medium Rare: 130-135°F
2 inches 8-10 minutes 16-20 minutes Medium Rare: 130-135°F

Factors Influencing Cooking Time

  • Steak Thickness: Thicker steaks require longer cooking times to reach the center temperature without overcooking the exterior.
  • Steak Cut: Tender cuts like ribeye and strip steak cook more uniformly, while denser cuts may need slightly longer times.
  • Initial Steak Temperature: Bringing steak to room temperature before cooking helps achieve even cooking.
  • Desired Doneness: Adjust cooking time based on whether you prefer rare, medium, or well-done steaks.
  • Grill Consistency: Pellet grills maintain steady temperature, but always confirm with a reliable meat thermometer.

Recommended Internal Temperatures for Doneness

Doneness Level Internal Temperature (°F) Description
Rare 120-125 Cool, red center
Medium Rare 130-135 Warm, red center
Medium 140-145 Pink and firm
Medium Well 150-155 Slightly pink center
Well Done 160+ Brown throughout

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

  1. Preheat the Pellet Grill: Set your pellet grill to 350°F and allow it to stabilize.
  2. Prepare the Steak: Season the steak as desired and bring it to room temperature before placing it on the grill.
  3. Place Steak on Grill: Position the steak directly on the grill grates over indirect heat.
  4. Monitor Cooking Time: Use the times in the table above as a guideline, flipping the steak halfway through cooking.
  5. Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to measure doneness, inserting the probe into the thickest part.
  6. Rest the Steak: Remove the steak from the grill once the target temperature is reached and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to redistribute juices.

Expert Recommendations on Cooking Steak on a Pellet Grill at 350°F

James Caldwell (Certified Grill Master and Culinary Instructor). Cooking steak on a pellet grill at 350 degrees Fahrenheit typically requires about 12 to 15 minutes for a medium-rare finish, depending on the thickness of the cut. It is essential to preheat the grill thoroughly and use a reliable meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 130-135°F for optimal doneness.

Dr. Elena Martinez (Food Scientist and Barbecue Research Specialist). At 350°F, the pellet grill provides a steady heat that allows for even cooking of steak. For a 1-inch thick steak, I recommend grilling for approximately 6-7 minutes per side. Monitoring the internal temperature is crucial, as overcooking can quickly occur at this temperature range, affecting tenderness and juiciness.

Michael Thompson (Professional Chef and Outdoor Cooking Consultant). When cooking steak on a pellet grill set to 350°F, timing varies with steak thickness and desired doneness. Generally, a 1.5-inch steak will take around 10-12 minutes total. Using a two-zone fire setup can help sear the steak first and then finish it at 350°F to lock in flavor while achieving the perfect cook.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long should I cook a 1-inch steak on a pellet grill at 350°F?
For a 1-inch thick steak, cook for approximately 6 to 8 minutes per side to reach medium-rare doneness. Adjust time based on thickness and desired doneness.

Does the steak thickness affect cooking time on a pellet grill at 350°F?
Yes, thicker steaks require longer cooking times. A 1.5-inch steak may need 10 to 12 minutes per side, while thinner cuts cook faster.

Should I use direct or indirect heat when cooking steak at 350°F on a pellet grill?
At 350°F, it is best to use direct heat for searing the steak, then indirect heat to finish cooking evenly without burning.

How can I tell when my steak is done on a pellet grill at 350°F?
Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature: 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium, and 160°F for well done.

Is it necessary to rest the steak after cooking on a pellet grill at 350°F?
Yes, resting the steak for 5 to 10 minutes allows juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender result.

Can I cook frozen steak on a pellet grill at 350°F?
It is not recommended to cook frozen steak directly. Thaw the steak first for even cooking and better texture.
Cooking steak on a pellet grill at 350°F requires careful attention to both time and internal temperature to achieve the desired doneness. Generally, steaks will take approximately 10 to 20 minutes to cook at this temperature, depending on their thickness and the cut. It is essential to monitor the internal temperature using a reliable meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches the preferred level of doneness, whether rare, medium, or well-done.

For optimal results, it is recommended to sear the steak either before or after cooking on the pellet grill to develop a flavorful crust, as pellet grills primarily provide indirect heat. Additionally, allowing the steak to rest for several minutes after cooking helps redistribute the juices, enhancing tenderness and flavor. Adjusting cooking times based on steak thickness and personal preference is crucial, as thicker cuts will naturally require more time.

In summary, cooking steak at 350°F on a pellet grill offers a balance between even cooking and flavor development. By combining accurate temperature control, proper timing, and resting, one can consistently produce delicious and perfectly cooked steaks. Understanding these key factors ensures a successful grilling experience every time.

Author Profile

Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.