As a fan of the carnivore diet and a dedicated BBQ enthusiast, I love to use pellet grills for searing to get a nice browned and crispy surface for extra flavor and texture.
If you're looking for the best pellet grills to sear your meats, I've reviewed a ton of them available on the market and rallied up these five.
Read on to learn my top-favorite pellet grill pick.
The Best Pellet Grills for Searing
- Best Overall Pellet Grill for Searing: Weber SmokeFire EX4 (2nd Gen)
- Cheapest Pellet Grill for Searing: Z Grills 700D3
- Best Portable Pellet Grill for Searing: Traeger Pro 780
- Most Versatile Pellet Searing Grill: Weber SmokeFire EX4 (2nd Gen)
- Searing Pellet Grill Best for Meat Flavor: Weber SmokeFire EX4 (2nd Gen)
- Easiest-to-Maintain Pellet Grill for Searing: Camp Chef Woodwind 36
5 Best Pellet Grills For Searing
1 - Weber SmokeFire EX4 (2nd Gen) (Best Overall & for Best-Tasting Meat)
- Gives meat a rich smoke flavor
- Easy to operate
- Massive grilling surface
- User-friendly app
- Comes with only two probes
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- BBQ enthusiasts who love searing meat
Who is it not for?
- Those without easy access to an electric outlet
Final Verdict
Excellent for achieving a smoky flavor with high heat. The app connectivity adds convenience, though it may have some minor issues.
A super appliance like the Weber SmokeFire EPX4 may take your outdoor cooking to an entirely new level.
This wood-fired pellet stove can heat up to 600°F in less than 10 minutes, meaning you enjoy the convenience of searing your meat to perfection at the right temperature.
I was pleasantly delighted to discover that the SmokeFire could sear, much like a gas or charcoal grill. The stainless-steel grill grates heated up sufficiently to leave visible grill marks on the flank steak, and my chicken wings were deliciously crispy.
You can sear for longer periods because of the massive 22-pound hopper, which avoids the need for frequent pellet refills.
I love the flexibility of this grill; with the vast temperature range (200° F - 600°F), you can sear, grill, braise and cook different meats on this one unit.
I appreciate that the four temperature probe connections on this pellet grill and smoker are located below the screen, allowing me to check the internal temperature of the food when searing. This ensures it's seared correctly and safely.
Quick Facts:
- Total cooking space : 1000 square inches
- Pellet hopper capacity : 22lbs
- Dimensions : 44.9 X 34.8 X 35.8 inches
- Max temperature : 600 degrees
- Material : stainless steel
2 - Traeger Pro 780 (Best Portable)
- Huge grilling space
- Precise temperature control
- App provides delicious recipes
- Slow app connectivity
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- People who need a portable grill with reliable performance
Who is it not for?
- Those looking for a large cooking area
Final Verdict
A solid portable option with good temperature control and ease of use. However, its size might not suit large gatherings.
With the improved controller that uses WiFIRE technology, the new Traeger Pro 780 grill kicks things up a level. With 36,000 BTUs, this grill can get very hot, which is ideal for searing steaks.
The grill grates are made of cast iron which retains heat and yields the perfect sear marks on your steaks.
Another feature I admired was the interior styling of the grilling area. The steel cooking grates are hinged, allowing you to lift a section of the grate on the side to set the coals without having to move the entire grilling grate.
This is very useful when aiming to attain the optimum temperature for searing your steak.
The arrangement is also ideal for cooking over both direct and indirect heat or a mix of the two, which is ideal for searing.
Additionally, the Pro Series Wi-Fi pellet grills are now built to start, heat up, and emit smoke with more outstanding quality. This provides you with consistent searing results with a wood-fired flavor.
However, I didn't appreciate how heavy the Traeger pro series 780 pellet grill is; it weighs roughly 150 pounds. This is quite heavy if you're frequently grilling on the road and need a portable pellet grill.
Quick Facts:
- Total cooking space : 780 square inches
- Pellet hopper capacity : 18lbs
- Dimensions : 49 x 27 x 55 inches
- Max temperature : 500 degrees
- Material : painted steel
3 - Camp Chef Woodwind 24
- Features a full-color controller screen
- Easy ash cleanout system
- Stainless steel sear box
- Temperature can be inaccurate
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those who appreciate advanced features and easy cleaning
Who is it not for?
- Users who need absolute temperature accuracy
Final Verdict
Offers great versatility and easy maintenance with a smart tech edge. Some temperature variability may occur.
This Camp Chef Woodwind 24 comes with an extra grill attachment that's perfect for searing flat meats like chicken breasts.
It also features an amazing cooking chamber box that holds a steady searing temperature of up to 900°F.
And because this maximum temperature is quite high, you have a digital PID controller to adjust the temperature to your liking.
The adjustable knob on the front makes it simple to change the intensity of the sear box without affecting the temperature of the grill.
Aside from that, it has a smoke adjustment technology that allows you to calibrate how much smokey flavor you want in your seared meats.
Using this grill is simple: you only need to turn it on, dial in the temperature, and set your smoke level, and the grill will take care of the rest.
However, in my experience, when I didn't sear with the dear box, the direct heat wasn't hot enough for searing thick meat cuts.
The sliding bars and latching plates for the direct flame searing, ash cleanup, and pellet funnel are nicely made.
Quick Facts:
- Total cooking space : 811 square inches
- Pellet hopper capacity : 22lbs
- Dimensions : 42 x 30 x 49 inches
- Max temperature : 500 degrees
- Material : stainless steel
4 - Z Grills 700D3 (Cheapest)
- Quite durable
- Waterproof cover
- Functional wheels for portability
- No plugins for the digital controller
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Budget-conscious users who need storage options
Who is it not for?
- Individuals who need high pellet capacity for long smoking sessions
Final Verdict
A cost-effective choice with ample storage, suitable for small to medium-sized meals. Limited hopper capacity may require frequent refills.
The Z Grills 700D3 wood pellet grill boasts simple aesthetics, solid slide and grill technology, and traditional features like an angled side chimney and a stainless steel waste pan. As far as the face of it goes, it’s excellent.
The cast iron cooking grate is stainless and long-lasting. Even when meat juices and smoke accumulate on the metal, it cleans off effortlessly.
The grate material allows you to sear and cook pieces of meat without spilling any of their organic flavor and juices.
In order to keep you informed of the searing temperature within the grill, this pellet grill also has a built-in display and a temperature control knob that can be adjusted between 180 and 450°F, which is hot enough to sear meat properly.
However, if you're looking to sear under direct heat, this grill is not your ideal choice because it doesn't support this heating method.
Z Grills also offers a 3-year limited warranty policy. Although the warranty isn't very extended, the firm has established a reputation for reliability and prompt customer service.
Quick Facts:
- Total cooking space : 697 square inches
- Pellet hopper capacity : 20lbs
- Dimensions : 48 x 22 x 51 inches
- Max temperature : 450 degrees
- Material : Porcelain-coated steel
5 - Camp Chef Woodwind 36 (Camp Chef Woodwind)
- Spacious cooking surface area
- Easy cleanup process
- Intuitive app interface
- Thinner cast iron grates
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Users wanting a large, easy-to-clean grill with WiFi capability
Who is it not for?
- Those who prefer smaller, more portable grills
Final Verdict
Large cooking area with innovative features makes it easy to use. Slight inaccuracies in temperature settings can be managed.
The Woodwind 36 is a feature-rich grill that can perform various cooking techniques, from searing to smoking. One of the best features of this Camp Chef grill is the functional sidekick sear box that can handle up to 25,000 BTUs.
The outside of the sear box is made of stainless steel and is dark black in color. This metal holds up to 650° F maximum heat created by the grill and keeps it confined inside, allowing your thick meats to sear evenly.
Inside the sear box is a tiny cast iron grate that may be removed for cleaning. The narrow slats and perforations in this grate allow the smoke from the grill to surround the meat.
This not only allows you to add grill marks, but it also sears the meats to seal in their natural aromas and fluids.
Every piece of this Camp Chef Woodwind 36 is constructed of stainless and powder-coated steel.
Given that this grill has Wi-Fi capabilities, I didn't even have to leave the luxury of my chair to watch my food and change the appropriate temperature.
However, I didn't particularly appreciate that I had limited working space when using the sidekick. Although you can buy a separate front shelf, this translates to additional expenses.
Quick Facts:
- Total cooking space : 1236 square inches
- Pellet hopper capacity : 22lbs
- Dimensions : 63 x 30 x 49 inches
- Max temperature : 650 degrees
- Material : powder-coated steel, stainless steel
Buyer's Guide
Here's a detailed buyer's guide to help you buy the best pellet grill for searing your steaks.
1. Grill Size
Pellet smokers and grills come in several sizes to suit various applications. There are built-in pellet grills for backyard kitchens and extra-large commercial ones that may be used for tailgating.
Examine the physical measurements and the cooking area to pick a pellet grill that matches your space and lifestyle.
2. Cooking Grates
Most pellet grills use several materials for the primary cooking grate, and various materials generate variable searing results. You want to invest in a pellet grill with extra metal on the cooking grate.
A metallic cooking surface essentially implies more thermodynamic mass to take heat from the pellet fire underneath.
If you have two pellet grills, one with thin aluminum metal and another with thick cast iron metal heated to 500°F simultaneously, the one with the thick cast iron or stainless steel grates will deliver greater searing performance.
So, always ensure you inspect the grilling surface and go with a grill that has more metal or cast iron.
3. Inspect The Construction
Investing in a high-quality, solidly constructed pellet grill is the best way to ensure it lasts for many years.
Before buying, inspect the build quality. Lift the grill's lid and feel its weight; it shouldn't feel light or delicate. Observe how it rests on the grill once you have closed the cover.
Verify all of the hardware, joints, and welding. They should be well-built, with no gaps or openings where heat may escape at the joints and seams.
4. Features
Wood pellet grill manufacturers are compelled to stand apart from the competition as more grills with pellets reach the market. Utilizing cutting-edge technology and exceptional skills is one approach to do this.
When evaluating different pellet grills, consider the overall grill, including its capabilities, offered features, and if such elements are standard or supplementary.
Also, remember to go with features that you'll actually use when grilling.
5. Cooking Temperature Range
The temperature range on different pellet grill models differs depending on the cooking you wish to accomplish.
Every searing pellet grill excels at indirect cooking, and most have no trouble reaching temperatures between 150°F and 450°F, which are suitable for grilling, roasting, and smoking.
However, such a temperature range deems insufficient for searing which needs a temperature of 500–550°F.
Choose the right pellet grill with a maximum temperature range between 500°F and 700°F, which is hot enough to produce a fantastic sear.
6. Placement
Due to their size and build design, pellet grills are often less portable than ordinary gas BBQs. Before you choose a location for your outdoor cooking, please take into account the fact that they also require power to operate.
Furthermore, pellet grills will produce more smoke, so you may not want to place it near any open windows or outside. Also note that if you must place your pellet grill close to a window, ensure the area is protected by an overhang.
7. Technological Features
Some pellet grills are Wi-Fi capable. On these, you may check on the status of your meat from the comfort of your living room or change the cook temperatures from your phone.
Although wood pellet grill technological developments are fantastic, I recognize that not everyone will benefit from them.
Additionally, they may increase the cost of your new pellet grill. Therefore, get the best pellet grill with the technical qualities you value the most.
Also Read: Best WiFi Pellet Grills & Smokers
8. Portability
If you're searching for the finest searing grill for backyard BBQs, portability shouldn't be an issue, but if you want something to take camping or tailgating, I recommend exploring some of your smaller and lighter alternatives. Go for portable pellet versions and smaller grills that are also quite economical.
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9. Cleanup Process
It's essential to remember that a wood pellet grill needs wood pellets to cook. This means that when the firebox on the pellet grill fills up, you'll have ash to clean up.
So, you want to make sure you invest in a pellet grill with an easy cleaning process.
Regular and proper cleaning will ensure you have a smooth grilling experience, plus your grill will last longer impair.
If you're concerned about excessive drainage or drippings on your grill, I advise laying down foil before cooking.
FAQs
Can You Sear on a Pellet Grill?
Yes, you can sear on a pellet grill. Pellet grills yield great sear marks on the meat, plus you get more flavor and texture.
How Do You Get Sear Marks on a Pellet Grill?
You get sear marks on a pellet grill when you place the meat in a diagonal position on the cooking grates. Also, ensure you've preheated the grill for at least 5-10 minutes with the lid closed before you start grilling.
Is 500 Degrees Hot Enough To Sear?
Yes, 500 degrees is hot enough to sear. The most effective temperature for seating meat is between 300°F - 500°F. Although, note that searing at extra high heat above 500°F can scorch and dry the meat pretty fast.
How Hot Should a Pellet Grill Be For Searing Meat?
A pellet grill for searing meat should be 450-550 degrees hot. This is the perfect temperature to get a good sear, but some pellet grills can heat up more.
How Many BTUs Do You Need To Sear A Steak?
You need about 75 to 100 BTUs to sear a steak. Note that this is the BTU range per square inch of cooking surface.
How Long Does It Take To Reverse Sear A Steak On A Pellet Grill at 225°?
It takes about 20 minutes to reverse sear a steak on a pellet grill at 225°. This cooking duration is for medium-rare meat. So, if you want a well-done steak, continue cooking until the internal temperature of the meat reaches 125-130°F.
What Is the Best Pellet Grill For Searing for You?
Searing meat with the right pellet grill allows you to lock in the meat juices and enjoy extra flavor and texture. The ideal pellet grill is one that combines high heating temperatures and an excellent grilling surface.
If you're a BBQ enthusiast and you want to enjoy the best of both worlds, I recommend investing in a reliable pellet grill like Weber SmokeFire EX4, which lets you sear foods quickly with a touch of wood-smoke taste.
The EX4 is genuinely a five-star pellet grill for searing. It is made of premium materials, takes into account all practical sear box conveniences, and performs superbly for grilling, smoking, and braising. It is simple to set up and use, making your meat-searing experience as simple as possible.
Weber SmokeFire EX4 (2nd Gen) (Best Overall & for Best-Tasting Meat)
Our #1 Recommendation
Rated With Carnivore Style's Scoring System
- Gives meat a rich smoke flavor
- Easy to operate
- Massive grilling surface
- User-friendly app
- Comes with only two probes
