What Temp to Cook Salmon on a Pellet Grill: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking salmon on a pellet grill can lead to incredibly moist, flavorful results when done right. The key is using the ideal temperature to get the texture and doneness you want. In this article, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to cook salmon perfectly on your pellet grill.

Why Cook Salmon on a Pellet Grill?

Pellet grills are known for infusing food with delicious smoky flavor The wood pellets burn and produce smoke that gives foods a wonderful barbecued taste. This pairs incredibly well with salmon’s rich, fatty texture

In addition, pellet grills allow you to precisely control the temperature. This is crucial for nailing the right doneness for salmon without over or undercooking it. Pellet grills give you the best of both worlds – smoky flavor and precise temperature control.

What is the Best Temperature for Cooking Salmon on a Pellet Grill?

The ideal temperature for cooking salmon on a pellet grill is between 225°F and 275°F This relatively low temperature range allows the salmon to cook gently without drying out

Here are some more specific temperature guidelines based on how you want your salmon cooked

• 225°F – For very thick salmon cuts that you want to cook low and slow. This results in incredibly moist salmon.

• 250°F – The most commonly recommended temp for achieving flaky, moist salmon with a hint of smoky flavor.

• 275°F – For thinner salmon fillets you want to cook a bit faster or if you prefer salmon cooked medium or medium well.

No matter what temp you pick, we don’t recommend going above 300°F, as salmon can dry out quickly at higher temperatures.

How Long to Cook Salmon on a Pellet Grill

Cooking time can vary greatly depending on the thickness and size of your salmon fillets. Here are some general time guidelines:

• 1/2 inch thick fillets – About 10-15 minutes
• 1 inch thick fillets – About 15-25 minutes
• 1 1/2 inch thick fillets – 25-35 minutes

The best way to tell when salmon is done is to use an instant read thermometer. Check the thickest part of the fillet and cook until it reaches your desired internal temp:

• 125°F for rare
• 135°F for medium rare
• 145°F for medium
• 155°F for well done

For even cooking, try cutting the salmon into equal sized portions before grilling. You can also watch the sides of the salmon – when opaque all the way through, it’s done.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cook Salmon on a Pellet Grill

Follow these simple steps for foolproof salmon cooked to perfection on your pellet grill:

1. Choose Your Salmon

Opt for fresh wild caught salmon rather than farmed for the best flavor. Go for thicker fillets or a large salmon steak to get the most out of the smoky flavor. Skinless or skin-on both work well.

2. Season the Salmon

Rub the salmon all over with olive oil first. This helps the seasoning stick. Then, liberally season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, herbs like dill or Italian seasoning, lemon pepper, or any of your favorite spices.

3. Preheat Your Pellet Grill

Get your pellet grill heating up to 250°F, which is ideal for most salmon cooking. Give it at least 15-20 minutes to fully preheat.

4. Place Salmon on the Grill

Put the seasoned salmon directly on the grill grates. No need for foil or a pan – direct grilling results in the most flavor.

5. Close the Lid and Cook

Once salmon is on, close the grill lid right away. This traps in heat and smoke to speed up cooking. Start checking doneness after 10 minutes.

6. Flip and Continue Cooking if Needed

Depending on thickness, you may want to flip the salmon halfway through and cook a few more minutes on the second side. Use tongs for easy flipping.

7. Check for Doneness

Salmon is done when it reaches your desired internal temp or the center flakes apart easily with a fork. Err on the side of undercooking; you can always put it back on for another minute or two if needed.

8. Let It Rest

When salmon comes off the grill, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute for moist, tender salmon.

9. Serve and Enjoy!

You did it – beautifully cooked salmon with tender meat, crispy edges, and wonderful smoky flavor. Pair it with grilled veggies or rice for a complete meal.

Tips for Grilling Salmon on a Pellet Grill

Follow these tips and tricks for guaranteed success when cooking salmon on your pellet grill:

• Brine the salmon first – soak for 30 minutes in a saltwater brine to season it throughout and retain moisture. Rinse and pat dry before grilling.

• Grill on a cedar plank – soak plank in water first, then place salmon on top for grilling. Adds subtle woodsy flavor.

• Use a meat thermometer – takes the guesswork out of checking doneness. Cook until it reaches your desired internal temp.

• Resist the urge to flip repeatedly – only flip once, if needed, for prettier grill marks and more even cooking.

• Watch the edges – they cook faster than the center so check that the edges aren’t overcooking.

• Take it off a little underdone – carryover cooking will finish it off the rest of the way as it rests.

Get Grilling!

Cooking salmon on a pellet grill results in an easy, fuss-free meal with delicious smoky flavor. Follow this guide for salmon cooked to tender, flaky perfection. Get creative with different wood pellet flavors and seasonings to put your own spin on it. Your whole family will be asking for seconds!

For grilling salmon on a pellet grill, a temperature range of 325°F to 350°F is generally recommended. Cooking time will vary based on the thickness of the fillet, but you can expect it to take around 15-25 minutes.

To cook salmon on a grill at 400°F, plan for about 10-12 minutes total, flipping halfway through.