How Long Should You Cook Steak on a Pit Boss Grill for Perfect Results?

AvatarByJacqueline Johnson Food Storage & Preservation

When it comes to grilling the perfect steak, timing is everything. The Pit Boss grill, known for its versatility and consistent heat control, has become a favorite among barbecue enthusiasts looking to achieve that mouthwatering, juicy steak with a beautiful sear. But one of the most common questions for both beginners and seasoned grill masters alike is: how long should you cook a steak on a Pit Boss to get it just right?

Cooking steak on a Pit Boss involves more than just setting a timer; it’s about understanding the cut of meat, the desired level of doneness, and how the grill’s temperature affects cooking time. Whether you prefer a rare, medium, or well-done steak, mastering the timing on this pellet grill can elevate your grilling game and impress your guests every time.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the factors that influence cooking times on a Pit Boss, share tips to help you achieve the perfect steak, and guide you through the process so you can confidently grill steaks that are tender, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. Get ready to unlock the secrets of steak grilling on your Pit Boss!

Optimal Cooking Times and Temperatures for Different Steak Cuts

Cooking steak on a Pit Boss pellet grill requires understanding how various cuts respond to heat and how to adjust cooking times accordingly. The thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness play crucial roles in determining how long you should cook your steak.

Generally, thicker cuts need lower temperatures and longer cooking times to ensure even cooking, while thinner cuts can be cooked at higher temperatures for shorter periods. The Pit Boss grill allows precise temperature control, which helps achieve the perfect sear and internal temperature.

Consider the following factors when estimating cooking times:

  • Steak thickness: Thicker steaks require more time to cook through.
  • Desired doneness: Rare steaks need less time, while well-done steaks require longer cooking.
  • Grill temperature: Higher grill temps speed up cooking but risk overcooking if not monitored.
  • Resting time: Letting steak rest after grilling allows juices to redistribute, enhancing flavor.

Here is a guideline for cooking times and internal temperatures for common steak cuts on a Pit Boss grill set between 400°F and 450°F (204°C to 232°C):

Steak Cut Thickness Doneness Grill Temp (°F) Estimated Cooking Time (minutes per side) Internal Temp (°F)
Ribeye 1 inch Medium Rare 425 4-5 130-135
Ribeye 1.5 inches Medium Rare 425 5-6 130-135
New York Strip 1 inch Medium 425 4-5 135-145
New York Strip 1.5 inches Medium 425 5-6 135-145
Filet Mignon 1 inch Medium Rare 425 3-4 130-135
Filet Mignon 1.5 inches Medium Rare 425 4-5 130-135

Techniques to Achieve Perfect Steak on Pit Boss

For the best results, employ these techniques when cooking steak on a Pit Boss pellet grill:

  • Preheat the Grill: Allow the Pit Boss to preheat fully to the target temperature before placing your steak on the grill. This ensures consistent heat and proper searing.
  • Use Two-Zone Cooking: Set up a two-zone fire by placing more pellets on one side of the grill to create a hot zone for searing and an indirect cooler zone for finishing thicker cuts.
  • Seasoning: Generously season your steak with salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also use marinades or dry rubs depending on your flavor preferences.
  • Sear First or Last: Some pitmasters prefer searing the steak first over high heat to lock in juices, then moving it to indirect heat to finish cooking. Others prefer reverse sear—slow cooking first, then searing at the end.
  • Monitor Internal Temperature: Use a reliable meat thermometer or a probe thermometer compatible with the Pit Boss grill to monitor internal temperature without opening the lid frequently.
  • Rest the Steak: After cooking, let the steak rest for at least 5-10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat for optimal tenderness and flavor.

Adjusting for Altitude and Weather Conditions

Altitude and weather can affect cooking times on a Pit Boss grill. At higher altitudes, the air pressure is lower, which can cause water and moisture to evaporate faster, potentially increasing cooking times slightly. Additionally, windy or cold weather can lower grill temperature stability, requiring adjustments.

To compensate:

  • Increase Cooking Time: Add 1-2 minutes per side for thicker cuts when cooking at high altitude.
  • Monitor Grill Temperature Closely: Use the Pit Boss’s temperature control and adjust pellet feed or fan speed to maintain consistent heat.
  • Protect from Wind: Use a windbreak or position the grill in a sheltered area to avoid heat loss.

Using Smoke for Flavor Enhancement

One advantage of the Pit Boss pellet grill is its ability to infuse smoky flavors into the steak while cooking. The type of wood pellets used can influence the flavor profile.

Popular wood pellet options include:

  • Hickory: Strong, smoky, and bacon-like flavor, great for robust cuts like ribeye.
  • Mesquite: Intense and bold, ideal for those who like a pronounced smoke taste.
  • Oak: Medium smoky flavor, versatile for most steak cuts.
  • Cherry or Apple: Mild, sweet smoke that complements tender cuts like filet mignon.

When adding smoke flavor:

  • Set your Pit Boss to

Optimal Cooking Times for Steak on a Pit Boss Grill

Cooking steak on a Pit Boss pellet grill requires attention to steak thickness, desired doneness, and grill temperature. The Pit Boss’s ability to maintain consistent heat makes it ideal for achieving precise results. Below are general guidelines for cooking times based on steak thickness and doneness levels at a standard grilling temperature of 450°F (232°C).

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

Temperature Settings and Their Impact on Steak Cooking Time

The temperature setting on the Pit Boss directly affects how quickly the steak cooks and the texture of the final product. While 450°F is a common searing temperature, adjusting the grill temperature can optimize results depending on the cut and thickness.

  • High Heat (450°F to 500°F): Ideal for thinner steaks (1 inch or less), this setting sears the outside quickly, locking in juices and creating a flavorful crust. Expect shorter cooking times, approximately 6-12 minutes total.
  • Medium-High Heat (375°F to 425°F): Suitable for thicker steaks (1.5 inches or more), this temperature allows more even cooking without burning the exterior. Cooking times will increase by about 20-30% compared to high heat.
  • Medium Heat (300°F to 350°F): Best for reverse searing techniques or very thick cuts, cooking at this temperature produces a more uniform doneness from edge to center but requires longer cooking times, often exceeding 20 minutes.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Steak Perfectly on a Pit Boss

Follow these steps to ensure your steak is cooked to perfection using a Pit Boss pellet grill:

  1. Preheat the Grill: Set your Pit Boss to the desired temperature (typically 450°F for searing).
  2. Prepare the Steak: Remove the steak from the refrigerator 30-60 minutes before cooking to reach room temperature. Season liberally with salt, pepper, and any preferred spices.
  3. Oil the Grill Grates: Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking and promote even grill marks.
  4. Initial Sear: Place the steak on the grill and sear for the recommended time on the first side without moving it to develop a crust.
  5. Flip and Continue Cooking: Turn the steak and cook for the same duration on the other side.
  6. Check Internal Temperature: Use a reliable meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak for an accurate reading.
  7. Adjust Cook Time as Needed: If the steak has not reached the desired doneness, continue cooking, flipping occasionally to avoid burning.
  8. Rest the Steak:Expert Guidance on Cooking Steak Using a Pit Boss Grill

    Michael Turner (Certified Grill Master and Culinary Instructor). Cooking steak on a Pit Boss requires attention to thickness and desired doneness. For a 1-inch thick steak, I recommend grilling at 450°F for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Always preheat the grill thoroughly to ensure even cooking and use a meat thermometer to confirm internal temperature.

    Linda Chavez (Professional Chef and Barbecue Consultant). When using a Pit Boss pellet grill, the indirect heat method works best for steak. Start by searing the steak directly over high heat for 2-3 minutes per side, then move it to indirect heat at around 375°F to finish cooking. This approach helps maintain juiciness and develops a flavorful crust without overcooking.

    James O’Neill (Food Scientist and Grilling Technology Specialist). The cooking time on a Pit Boss varies based on steak cut and pellet type, but generally, a 1.5-inch ribeye takes approximately 12-15 minutes total at 400°F to reach medium doneness. Using a digital probe thermometer is crucial to avoid guesswork and achieve precise results every time.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    How long should I cook a steak on a Pit Boss grill?
    Cooking time varies by steak thickness and desired doneness. Generally, a 1-inch steak takes about 4-6 minutes per side at 450°F for medium-rare.

    What temperature is best for cooking steak on a Pit Boss?
    Preheat the Pit Boss to 450°F to 500°F for searing steaks, ensuring a good crust while maintaining juiciness inside.

    Does the thickness of the steak affect cooking time on a Pit Boss?
    Yes, thicker steaks require longer cooking times. For example, a 1.5-inch steak may need 6-8 minutes per side at high heat.

    Should I use direct or indirect heat on a Pit Boss when cooking steak?
    Start with direct heat to sear the steak, then move it to indirect heat to finish cooking evenly without burning.

    How do I know when my steak is done on a Pit Boss?
    Use a meat thermometer: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 150°F for medium-well. Rest the steak for a few minutes before serving.

    Can I cook frozen steak on a Pit Boss, and how does it affect cooking time?
    Cooking frozen steak is possible but increases cooking time by 50% or more. It is recommended to thaw steak for more even cooking and better texture.
    Cooking steak on a Pit Boss grill requires careful attention to time, temperature, and thickness to achieve the desired doneness. Generally, steaks take between 8 to 15 minutes on a Pit Boss, depending on factors such as steak cut, thickness, and whether you prefer rare, medium, or well-done. Preheating the grill to a high temperature, typically around 450°F to 500°F, is essential for searing the steak and locking in juices.

    It is advisable to use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature accurately, aiming for 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium, and 160°F for well-done. Additionally, allowing the steak to rest for several minutes after cooking ensures the juices redistribute evenly, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bite.

    In summary, mastering the cooking time on a Pit Boss grill hinges on understanding your steak’s thickness, the grill’s temperature settings, and your preferred level of doneness. With practice and attention to these variables, you can consistently produce perfectly cooked steaks that highlight the capabilities of the Pit Boss grill.

    Author Profile

    Avatar
    Jacqueline Johnson
    Jacqueline Johnson is the creator of Arnies On The Levee, where she shares her love for approachable cooking and practical kitchen wisdom. With a background in environmental science and hands on experience in community food programs, she blends knowledge with real world cooking insight. Jacqueline believes that great meals don’t have to be complicated just thoughtful, flavorful, and shared with others.

    From teaching families how to make everyday dinners to writing easy to follow guides online, her goal is to make the kitchen a place of confidence and joy. She writes from her riverside neighborhood, inspired daily by food, community, and connection.