How To Cook A Steak On A Traeger Pellet Grill
A Traeger pellet grill is a popular choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts to cook their steak. It is a versatile grill known for its ability to grill, smoke, bake, roast, and braise your favorite food items. Cooking a perfect steak on a Traeger pellet grill requires some skills, knowledge, and a little bit of patience. In this article, we will discuss how to cook a steak on a Traeger pellet grill and make you a grill master in no time.
Preparing The steak
The first thing to do when cooking a steak is to choose the right cut of beef. The quality of beef matters and can affect the final taste of the steak. The best cuts of beef for grilling include ribeye, T-bone, and filet mignon.
To prepare the steak, take it out of the refrigerator and let it cool down to room temperature for 20-30 minutes. This will allow the meat to cook more evenly. Season the steak with salt and pepper or any seasoning of your choice. If you prefer to marinate your steak, do it for a minimum of 30 minutes to an hour before grilling.
Setting up the Traeger pellet grill
Before setting up your grill, ensure that the pellet hopper is filled with enough pellets. Preheat your Traeger pellet grill in smoke mode for 4-5 minutes, and then increase the temperature to 450°F. Allow the grill to preheat for an additional 10-15 minutes.
When the grill is heated, clean the grates with a grill brush and spray with non-stick cooking spray. This will help prevent the steak from sticking to the grates and make flipping easier.
Cooking the steak
Place the seasoned steak on the hot grill grates, and close the lid. Cook the steak for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare doneness. Cook for an additional minute or two if you prefer your steak medium or well-done.
During cooking, avoid lifting the lid too often as this will lower the temperature inside the grill. Keep an eye on the steak’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The ideal internal temperature for medium-rare steak is 135°F, and for medium, it is 145°F.
Resting the steak
Once the steak is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Resting allows the juices inside the steak to redistribute, making it more tender and moist when cut.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long does it take to cook a steak on a Traeger pellet grill?
It takes around 6-8 minutes to cook a 1-inch thick steak to medium-rare doneness on a Traeger pellet grill. However, the time may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the desired doneness.
Q: What temperature should I set my Traeger pellet grill?
Preheat your Traeger pellet grill in smoke mode for 4-5 minutes, and then increase the temperature to 450°F. Allow the grill to preheat for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Q: How do I know when my steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the steak’s internal temperature. The ideal internal temperature for medium-rare steak is 135°F, and for medium, it is 145°F.
Q: Should I oil the steak before grilling it on a Traeger pellet grill?
No, you do not need to oil the steak before grilling it on a Traeger pellet grill. Simply season the steak with salt and pepper or any seasoning of your choice. If you prefer to marinate your steak, do it for a minimum of 30 minutes to an hour before grilling.
Q: Can I grill my steak on a Traeger pellet grill if it is frozen?
It is not recommended to cook frozen steak on a Traeger pellet grill, as it can affect the flavor and the cook time. Always defrost your steak completely before cooking it on the grill.
Conclusion
Cooking a steak on a Traeger pellet grill is easy and rewarding when done right. Follow the steps outlined above, and you will be sure to impress your family and guests with a deliciously grilled steak. Remember to choose the right cut of beef, season it well, and let it rest before slicing. With these tips and tricks, you can be sure to cook a restaurant-quality steak every time.