Winter Grilling Tips

Winter’s almost here, but that doesn’t mean the smoke has to stop. Whether you’re mastering a slow-smoked prime rib or firing up weeknight comfort food, Pit Boss grills are built to perform in any season. From cold-weather startup tips to cozy recipe inspiration, we’ve got everything you need to keep your BBQ game strong all winter long. Grab your gloves (the BBQ kind), because it’s time to fire up the Pit Boss.

Can I really grill in freezing temperatures?

You bet. Pit Boss grills are built for year-round performance, with heavy-duty construction and precise temp control that laughs in the face of winter. The key is to give your grill a little extra time to heat up and let it work its magic.

Pro Tip: Our Rapid Igniter helps you reach set temperatures faster than ever. Fewer minutes waiting, more time grilling.

My grill’s heating slower than usual. Normal?

Totally. Cold air can make your grill work a little harder—but no worries. Pit Boss 100% Hardwood BBQ Pellets burn hotter and cleaner to help you hit those temps faster. For an even speedier preheat, set your grill to a higher temperature than you plan to cook at (say, 350°F). Once it reaches that mark, lower it to your target cooking temp. This jump-start method works because the feed cycles are more frequent, getting your grill roaring hot in less time.

How do I keep my grill protected between cooks?

• After every use, clean the pellets out of the hopper to set yourself up for success next time.
• To keep your pellets dry and ready to perform, store them in the Pit Boss Pellet Storage Bucket and Lid. Proper storage is the easiest way to lock out moisture and protect your fuel from the elements. 
• A Pit Boss Grill Cover keeps snow, sleet, and curious critters out of your hopper when you’re not cooking, thanks to the heavy-duty material.
  
  
  
  

How do I stay warm while grilling?

Let technology do the heavy lifting. Use the Pit Boss Grills mobile app to set, monitor, and adjust your grill temperature without stepping outside. That means you can manage your brisket from the couch or from under a cozy blanket (bonus Pit Boss points if you put on BBQ gloves for dramatic effect).

Best winter grilling tips:

• Always empty ash from the firepot before lighting up.
• Check pellets for moisture and ensure they’re dry for best performance.
• Prime your grill for a quick temp boost after opening the lid.
• Keep your lid closed as much as possible to maintain steady heat.

What should I cook this season?

Winter calls for rich, slow-smoked comfort foods that warm you from the inside out. Try these Pit Boss recipe favorites:

• Perfectly Smoked Prime Rib: the ultimate holiday centerpiece.
• Mashed Potatoes: yes, you can smoke them.
• Texas Chuck Roast Chili: smoky, hearty, unbeatable on a cold day.
• Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup: comfort food meets smokehouse style.

Cold weather’s no excuse—it’s an invitation. With Pit Boss, you’ve got the power, the precision, and the pellets to master every season. So grab those BBQ gloves, fire it up, and show winter who’s boss.

NOTE: If you’re concerned about a specific issue, we recommend you refer to your user manual or reach out to our talented in-house Care team.