If you’re a meat lover, there is nothing better than a perfectly cooked juicy steak. And if you’re a fan of outdoor cooking, you may have heard of the Traeger grill, a versatile cooking tool that has gained popularity in recent years. Traeger grills use wood pellets as fuel and can be used to cook anything from steaks and burgers to vegetables and even desserts. But if you’re new to Traeger grilling, cooking the perfect steak can seem like a daunting task. In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to cook a steak on a traeger grill.

Choosing the Right Steak

The first step to cooking the perfect Traeger steak is selecting the right cut. While you can cook any type of steak on a Traeger, some cuts are better suited for grilling than others. The most popular cuts for grilling are Ribeye, New York Strip, and Filet Mignon.

When choosing your steak, look for one that is evenly marbled with fat. This will ensure that your steak stays juicy and tender throughout the cooking process. Additionally, you’ll want to choose a steak that is at least one inch thick to ensure that it cooks evenly on the Traeger.

Before cooking, remove your steak from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help ensure that your steak cooks evenly. If desired, you can also season your steak with salt and pepper or a dry rub of your choice.

Preparing the Steak

Once you’ve selected your steak and let it come to room temperature, it’s time to prepare it for cooking on the Traeger. First, you’ll want to trim any excess fat from the steak. Leaving too much fat on the steak can cause flare-ups on the grill, which can lead to uneven cooking and burnt spots on your steak.

If you’re using a dry rub, apply it to the steak and let it sit for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. If you’re using a wet marinade, be sure to pat the steak dry before placing it on the Traeger to prevent excess moisture from causing flare-ups.

Before cooking, preheat your Traeger grill to 450°F. This will ensure that your steak gets a nice sear on the outside while staying juicy and tender on the inside. Once the grill is heated, it’s time to cook your steak.

Preparing the Steak

Once your Traeger grill is preheated, it’s time to prepare the steak for cooking. Place the steak directly on the grill grates and close the lid. Let the steak cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side, then flip it over and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on the other side. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your steak and your desired level of doneness.

To ensure that your steak cooks evenly, try not to flip it more than once. And don’t be tempted to poke or prod your steak too much – this can cause the juices to escape, resulting in a dry and tough steak.

If you prefer your steak cooked to a specific temperature, it’s a good idea to invest in a meat thermometer. This will allow you to monitor the internal temperature of your steak and ensure that it’s cooked to your liking. For medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F, while medium steak should be cooked to 145°F.

Setting up the Traeger Grill

Properly setting up your Traeger grill is key to cooking the perfect steak. Start by making sure that your grill is clean and free of any debris. Then, fill the hopper with wood pellets of your choice. We recommend using a hardwood pellet, such as hickory or oak, for the best flavor.

Once your grill is preheated, it’s time to place your steak on the grill grates. Be sure to leave enough space between the steaks to ensure even cooking. Close the lid and let the Traeger work its magic.

One of the most important aspects of Traeger grilling is temperature control. The Traeger grill has a digital controller that allows you to set the temperature to the exact degree. For cooking steak, we recommend setting the temperature to 450°F to get a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

If you’re using a meat thermometer, be sure to insert it into the thickest part of the steak for an accurate reading. And don’t forget to let your steak rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute. This will result in a more tender and flavorful steak.