How Long To Cook Beef Tenderloin On Pellet Grill: A Comprehensive Guide

February 18, 2023 Post a Comment

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Grilling has always been a favorite pastime for many people, especially during the summer months. And when it comes to grilling beef tenderloin, pellet grills are the way to go. Pellet grills offer a unique cooking experience that cannot be replicated by other grilling methods. However, one question that many people ask is how long to cook beef tenderloin on pellet grill? In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to cook beef tenderloin on pellet grill to perfection.

Choosing the Right Beef Tenderloin Cut

The first step to cooking beef tenderloin on pellet grill is choosing the right cut of meat. There are three main grades of beef: Prime, Choice, and Select. Prime is the highest quality and most expensive, while Select is the lowest quality and least expensive. Choice is the middle grade and is the most commonly used for beef tenderloin. When selecting a beef tenderloin, look for one that is well-marbled with fat, as this will ensure that the meat is tender and juicy when cooked.

Preparing the Beef Tenderloin

Before cooking the beef tenderloin on pellet grill, it is important to prepare it properly. Start by trimming any excess fat from the meat and tying it with butcher's twine to help it cook evenly. Next, season the meat generously with salt and pepper or your favorite rub. You can also inject the meat with marinade or butter to add flavor and moisture. Let the meat sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cooking to allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat.

Cooking the Beef Tenderloin

Now it's time to cook the beef tenderloin on pellet grill. Preheat your grill to 450°F and place the beef tenderloin on the grates. Sear the meat for 2-3 minutes on each side to create a crust. Once the meat is seared, reduce the temperature to 350°F and continue cooking until the internal temperature of the meat reaches 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium, or 155°F for medium-well. This should take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on the size of the beef tenderloin. Once the meat is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Factors That Affect Cooking Time

While the above method is a general guide for cooking beef tenderloin on pellet grill, there are several factors that can affect the cooking time. These include:

Factor	Effect on Cooking Time
Size of Beef Tenderloin	A larger beef tenderloin will take longer to cook than a smaller one.
Temperature of Grill	A higher temperature will cook the meat faster than a lower temperature.
Wind and Weather Conditions	Wind and other weather conditions can affect the temperature of the grill and the cooking time.

Other Methods for Cooking Beef Tenderloin on Pellet Grill

While the above method is the most common way to cook beef tenderloin on pellet grill, there are several other methods you can try. These include:

Reverse Sear Method

The reverse sear method involves cooking the beef tenderloin on a low temperature first and then searing it at the end. This method takes longer but ensures that the meat is evenly cooked and retains its moisture.

Smoking Method

The smoking method involves cooking the beef tenderloin at a low temperature for a longer period of time with wood chips to add smoky flavor to the meat. This method is great for those who love the taste of smoked meat.

Sous Vide Method

The sous vide method involves cooking the beef tenderloin in a vacuum-sealed bag in a water bath at a constant temperature. This method ensures that the meat is cooked evenly and retains its moisture.

Conclusion

Cooking beef tenderloin on pellet grill can be a delicious and rewarding experience, but it requires some patience and attention to detail. By following the above methods and taking into account the factors that affect cooking time, you can cook beef tenderloin to perfection every time. So, the next time you fire up your pellet grill, give beef tenderloin a try and impress your family and friends with your grilling skills!