Easy Pellet Grill Salmon
This pellet grill salmon is weeknight cooking at its best — just 4ingredients, under 30 minutes from grill startup to plate, and consistently one of the most requested meals at our table. The combination of Cajun seasoning and a sweet heat BBQ rub gives the salmon bold, layered flavor without any fuss. Cooking it on the pellet grill adds a subtle smokiness you simply can't get from a stovetop or oven. Whether you're feeding a hungry family after work or just want something fast that doesn't feel like a shortcut, this pellet grilled salmon delivers every single time.
Prep Time5 minutes mins
Cook Time15 minutes mins
Total Time20 minutes mins
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: pellet grill salmon, salmon on pellet grill, Traeger salmon
Servings: 4 people
- 4 center-cut salmon fillets about 6-7 oz each
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon 'Que That Barbecue Seasoning or your favorite sweet-style BBQ rub
- Spray oil for skin and grill grates
Prep the grill. Preheat the pellet grill to 350°F with your choice of pellets.
Prep the salmon. While the grill heats up, check for pin bones by running your fingers along each fillet and remove any you find. Oil the skin side of each fillet with spray oil. No need to season this side unless you plan to eat the skin. Then season the flesh side with Cajun seasoning first, then with BBQ seasoning on top. Let the seasoning set for a few minutes while the grill finishes coming up to temperature.
Grill the salmon. Spray the grill grates lightly with oil, then place the salmon skin side down. Close the lid and cook for approximately 14-16 minutes. Do not flip.
Check for doneness. Check doneness with a meat thermometer. Pull at 130–135°F for medium. *The FDA recommends 145°F for fully cooked fish, but most salmon lovers prefer it pulled a bit earlier.
Plate and serve. When salmon is done cooking, carefully remove from the grill with a spatula or fish turner. Plate and serve.
- Cook time will vary based on fillet thickness. Always use a thermometer — time is just a guideline.
- Center-cut fillets ensure even cooking across all pieces. Worth the extra dollar per pound on a weeknight.
- The Cajun seasoning I used in this recipe is Cajun Two Step by Stale Kracker. One of my favorite Cajun seasonings lately.