How to Cook Meat on a Grill Without Burning It

Don’t burn your goodies on the grill! Learn how to cook meat on a grill without burning it.

Burned barbecued meat isn’t exactly the type of meal that you’d want to serve to anybody, including yourself. Whether you are using a gas grill or a charcoal grill, the meat is at risk for getting too charred around the edges. But, there is no secret to cooking perfectly barbecued meat that isn’t burned.

These tips can work for both gas and charcoal grills. You will need some basic equipment that you probably already have or use when you grill. You will need an instant-read meat thermometer, long grilling tongs; a kitchen towel; a spray bottle with water; and a fire poker.

How to Cook Meat on a Grill Without Burning It

Thermometer

The instant-read meat thermometer will let you know exactly when to take the meat off the heat. This is one step that will help prevent burned meat.

Make sure that you are using a digital thermometer. Even though you can use an inexpensive meat thermometer (that usually has readings for “poultry,” “pork,” and “beef” on it), a digital thermometer works best. When you grill or barbecue, every minute counts.

Tongs And Utensils

The other tools will help you when you see flare-ups. Long grilling tongs will help you take the meat off the grill safely and efficiently, especially when there are flare-ups. Use the kitchen towel to wipe off any burned bits from the tip of the tongs.

Use the spray bottle with water if the flare-up happens in all parts of the firebox. If only one side of the firebox has too-large flames, move the meat to the other, “quieter” side. Use the fire poker to evenly distribute the coals in the firebox if you are using a charcoal grill.

Check The Grill Temperature

On a gas grill, burned meat is usually the result of too-high temperatures. Turn the temperature down if, at the midway cooking point, you find the edges beginning to crisp. Alternatively, you can place the meat in aluminum foil so that it will steam for the rest of the cooking time.

Preheat The Grill

One of the best ways to use a charcoal grill is to start the fire in advance so that the coals die down enough. When the coals no longer catch on fire but smolder instead, you can start putting meat on the grill.

Use an oven thermometer to check the ambient air temperature. Don’t just rely on the thermometer that may be on your grill’s lid. It’s not always accurate.

Check Once In A While

Finally, don’t stay away too long from the grill. Even though it is a good idea to watch your grilling, it’s not a good idea to open the lid too often. The more you open the lid, the less heat is retained, and the longer your cooking time will be.

If you are not using the lid, watch the meat carefully. Do not turn the meat often, but be attentive to how hot your grill is.

If you follow these tips, you will be able to barbecue meat without burning it.