Wagyu on the Grill: Tips for a Sizzling Summer BBQ

Nothing says summer like the sound of a sizzling grill—and when Wagyu beef is on the menu, you know it’s going to be an unforgettable meal. With its rich marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture, Wagyu requires a different grilling approach than regular beef. Follow these expert tips to ensure your Wagyu steaks, burgers, and ribs come off the grill perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor.

1. Choose the Right Cut for the Grill

Wagyu comes in a variety of cuts, each with its own grilling method:

🔥 Ribeye & Strip Steak – Best for quick, high-heat grilling to create a crispy sear.
🔥 Filet Mignon – Grill over indirect heat to preserve tenderness.
🔥 Short Ribs – Benefit from a low-and-slow grill technique for fall-apart perfection.
🔥 Burgers – Keep them simple, cook over medium heat, and don’t press down!

2. Keep Seasoning Simple

Wagyu’s marbling delivers unmatched flavor, so there’s no need for heavy marinades or rubs. Stick to:
✔ Sea salt & freshly ground pepper before grilling.
✔ A light brush of olive oil or melted Wagyu fat for extra crispiness.
✔ A post-grill butter or herb butter finish to enhance richness.

3. Master the Grill Temperature

Wagyu fat melts at a lower temperature than regular beef, so controlling heat is key.

🔥 High heat for searing (500°F+) – Start steaks on a blazing-hot grill to lock in juices.
🔥 Medium heat for even cooking (300-350°F) – After searing, move steaks to a cooler zone.
🔥 Indirect heat for larger cuts – For thick steaks or ribs, use a two-zone fire to prevent burning.

Pro Tip: Avoid open flames directly under Wagyu meat—flare-ups can burn the fat and ruin the flavor!

4. Time It Right & Use a Meat Thermometer

With Wagyu, precision matters. Always use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking:

✔ Rare: 120-125°F (Cool red center)
✔ Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (Warm red center, best for Wagyu!)
✔ Medium: 140-145°F (Slightly pink center)

Pro Tip: Remove Wagyu 5°F before your target temp—it continues cooking while resting!

5. Let It Rest Before Slicing

After grilling, let Wagyu rest for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Cutting too soon will cause all that flavorful moisture to escape!

6. Perfect Pairings for Your Wagyu BBQ

Complete your Wagyu BBQ with sides and drinks that complement its rich flavor:

🍽 Sides: Grilled asparagus, truffle mashed potatoes, roasted corn, or a fresh arugula salad.
🥂 Drinks: A bold red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon), a craft IPA, or a smoky bourbon cocktail.

Final Thoughts

Grilling Wagyu is an art that transforms a backyard BBQ into a gourmet experience. By choosing the right cut, controlling heat, and letting the beef shine with minimal seasoning, you’ll unlock the full potential of this premium beef.

Ready to fire up the grill? Order Plum Creek Wagyu steaks and burgers for your next summer BBQ and taste the difference!