How to get the Best Pellet Smoker for You

What it is

You are looking for a new grill and/or smoker and you have come across pellet grills. Pellet grills are a great option if you are looking for a reliable smoker/grill that is easy to use, versatile, and gives you a lot of flavors! If this sounds like you, keep reading.

What Kind of Pellet Grill Should I Get

With any grill, you are going to want to know your backyard size, price range, and features you are looking for. Let us go over a few types of pellet grills.

Portable: If you have a small space or are looking to take your grill on the go, we recommend a portable grill. These typically range from $200-$500. Some have WIFI/Bluetooth Capability, but many do not.

Standard: The standard pellet grill is in a barrel shape. This shape is designed to utilize space and give you enough room for hosting friends and family. These will normally have user-friendly features such as shelves, tool racks, etc. The amount of technology is dependent on these grills, most will include thermometers; some will have digital technology, but many will not. These are great grills for beginners, smoke lovers, and quick weekday grillers. These grills normally fall in the $200-$400 range.

Built-in: A built-in option for a pellet grill may be the best option for you if you want this to have a clean look to go along with the rest of your outdoor kitchen. You can get all your favorite features in this price range. These typically range between $550-$5,5000.

Wi-Fi-Capable: Wi-Fi-Capable grills are what you typically think of when you think of pellet grills. These grills are built with the number one priority being simplicity. These normally have meters that connect to WIFI or Bluetooth to your phone. These allow you to check your temperature from your phone. People who enjoy long smokes, and easy set up particularly enjoy this grill. These grills are higher-end and typically range between $200-$4,000. The more features, the more expensive.

Ceramic: The lesser-known type of pellet grill is the ceramic grill. Ceramic pellet grills typically have the same Bluetooth and WIFI capabilities as a pellet grill. The major difference is the shape and heat retention. The ceramic chamber allows for fewer pellets and a longer cooking time since ceramic is an excellent conductor of heat. These are at a higher price range from $1,200-$2,000.

How Easy is Start Up for a Pellet Grill?

One key feature of pellet grills is their simplicity. You can start a pellet grill in only a few steps. First, fill the hopper with pellets. The typical rule is 1 pound of pellets/ per hour. The next step is to turn the grill on, followed by setting the temperature. Allow your grill to heat up, and you are ready to grill! Be sure to check your user manual for the exact instructions for your grill, but this is the general gist.

Snapshot of Charcoal, Ceramic Pellet, & Pellet Grills

Is it worth it to have a ceramic grill and a pellet grill?

This is user preference! If you are an avid lover of exclusively charcoal or pellet, then pick your side! If you enjoy experimenting with assorted flavors, including wood chips, different flavored charcoal, and pellets, then you can always have both.

What Recipes Work Best with a Pellet Grill?

Pellet grills are incredibly versatile. You can grill, smoke, bake, roast, you name it, we can do it! With endless recipes to try, here are our favorites to get started on.

Try some delicious Garlic Parmesan Wings on the Pellet Joe.

For a classic that is always a crowd pleaser, try Smoked Baby Back Ribs on the Pellet Joe

A classic flavor of sweet potatoes elevated with bacon, cheese, onions, chives and more! Dirty Loaded Sweet Potatoes

What Fuel Should I Use for Pellet Grilling?

Wood Pellet Pairing Guide

Wood	Food
HICKORY Strong Flavor Sweet like bacon	Beef Pork Chicken Game Vegetables
MESQUITE Strong Flavor Earthy smoke	Beef Pork Chicken Fish Game Vegetables
MAPLE Mild Flavor Subtly sweet	Beef Pork Vegetables
OAK Mild Flavor Traditional smoke	Beef Fish Vegetables
PECAN Mild Flavor Sweet and mild	Beef Pork Chicken Vegetables
APPLE Strong Flavor Sweet and fruity	Beef Chicken Vegetables
CHERRY Mild Flavor Fairly sweet and fruity	Beef Pork Chicken

Here's top features and common pitfalls to avoid when picking out your next pellet grill:

Top Features

• Temperature Control and Accuracy: A reliable pellet grill should offer precise temperature control, ideally within a few degrees. Look for models with advanced digital controllers for consistent cooking results.
• Cooking Area Size: Consider the cooking area size based on your needs. Make sure the grill can accommodate the amount of food you plan to cook regularly.
• Pellet Capacity: The hopper stores the wood pellets that fuel the grill. Larger hopper capacity means longer cooking times without needing to refill.
• Versatility: Some pellet grills offer additional cooking options such as direct grilling, smoking, baking, and roasting. Versatility can expand your culinary options.
• Wi-Fi and App Connectivity: Many modern pellet grills come with Wi-Fi capabilities and companion apps that allow you to monitor and control your grill remotely, making it convenient to manage your cooking.
• Pellet Cleanout System: Look for a grill with an efficient ash or pellet cleanout system. Easy maintenance can save you time and effort overall.
• Build Quality and Material: Look for grills made from durable materials like stainless steel or ceramic that can withstand varying weather conditions.
• Insulation and Sealing: A well-insulated grill with proper sealing helps maintain consistent temperatures and energy efficiency.
• Temperature Range: Check if the grill can achieve both high searing temperatures and low smoking temperatures, as this versatility is key for different cooking styles.
• Warranty and Customer Support: Choose a grill from a reputable manufacturer that offers a good warranty and reliable customer support.

Common Pitfalls

• Choosing Solely Based on Price: While budget is important, do not compromise too much on quality. Cheap pellet grills might lack essential features or have durability issues.
• Ignoring Temperature Fluctuations: Inconsistent temperature control can lead to uneven cooking results. Read reviews and ensure the grill maintains steady temperatures.
• Overlooking Cleaning and Maintenance: A grill that is hard to clean can be frustrating to use over time. Look for models with easy-to-clean features.
• Underestimating Size Needs: If you often cook for larger gatherings, ensure the grill's cooking area is sufficient. Choosing a grill that is too small can limit your options.
• Lack of Research: Before purchasing, read reviews, watch videos, and gather information about the specific model you are interested in. This helps you make an informed decision.
• Not Considering Fuel Costs: Pellets can be more expensive than other fuel sources. Factor in ongoing fuel costs when budgeting for your grill.
• Disregarding Durability: A grill that cannot withstand the elements may deteriorate quickly. Choose one with good build quality and weather-resistant features.
• Skipping the Warranty Check: Check the warranty terms and conditions before purchasing. A solid warranty provides peace of mind if any issues arise.

Summary

Pellets are incredibly versatile grills, that can grill, roast, smoke, bake, and sear delicious meals. With endless options in the market for pellet grills, we hope you now have a better idea of what pellet grill would fit your backyard. If you end up choosing a Kamado Joe Pellet Joe grill, tag us on social @kamadojoe and show us what you are serving up!