Cooking on a Pellet Grill

So, you bought your first wood pellet grill and can’t wait to enjoy some delicious smoky treats! You go to fire it up and realize you don’t know the first step to cooking on a pellet grill and are wondering where to start. Our pellet grills are meant to make smoking easy with pre-sets and simple controller navigation. But that doesn’t mean that there aren’t essential techniques to ensure you get consistent results. Take a look at some of the steps we’ve laid out to start your pellet smoker journey.

It's All About the Fuel

Before you even turn on your grill, think about what pellets you’re using. Good quality, 100% natural wood pellets make all the difference. Your Broil King pellets burn slowly, produce less ash, and come in flavours like hickory, mesquite, applewood, and blended mixes.

Intense flavours like hickory or mesquite work well for quick cooks — think steaks or burgers.
Milder blends like applewood are great for low-and-slow smoking so your food’s natural flavour shines through.

Clear the Burn Pot and Grease Tray

If this isn’t your first cook, give your grill a quick clean:

Burn pot: Remove ash so new pellets light properly. Use the built-in agitator or a Grid Lifter.
Grease tray: Scrap or wash it regularly. Drip pan liners make this easy — lift and toss.

A clean grill = smoother cooking and better flavour.

Clear the Burn Pot and Grease Tray

Pellet grills don’t heat like gas. Think more like charcoal: low and slow. Preheat your grill and let it level out — about 45 minutes is a good rule of thumb.

Fluctuations of a few degrees are normal.
Weather, pellet type, and ambient temperature all affect start-up time.
Let the flame and smoke build for richer flavour.

Start with the Lid Open

At the very beginning, leave the lid open to burn off heavy smoke. Once the smoke becomes light and wispy, close the lid and add your food. This avoids bitter-tasting food and ensures a subtle woodsy aroma.

Keep the lid down while cooking

Every time you open the lid, heat and smoke escape. Use a temperature probe to keep an eye on your cook without lifting the lid. Your food will stay juicy, and that smoky flavour stays locked in.

Use the Right Cooking Tools

For chopped veggies or small items, use perforated pans or a Broil King Roaster Basket so smoke can reach all sides.
For dishes with liquids, use a roasting pan or leave the lid off — just stir occasionally so smoke can flavour everything.

Storing your Grill? Empty the Hopper

Wood pellets absorb moisture and can jam your auger if left in the hopper for a long time. Always empty it before storing your grill to avoid blockages and ensure it fires up easily next time.

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