Introduction. Laser cladding of powder composites is a promising method for producing heat-resistant coatings. The Ni–Al system, capable of forming the strengthening Ni3Al phase, is of interest for protecting components operating under high-temperature oxidation conditions. However, the process is complicated by the high reactivity of aluminum and the tendency to form oxides and embrittle the structure. The literature lacks systematic recommendations for selecting parameters that ensure a dense, defect-free coating for the Ni–15% Al composition. The purpose of this work is to optimize the laser cladding parameters of the Ni–Al powder composite according to the criteria of continuity, geometric accuracy, and minimal defectiveness of the deposited bead. Materials and methods. Cladding was performed using a fiber laser with a power of 1,500–3,900 W, scanning speed of 20–100 mm/min, and powder feed rate of 24–69 g/min. A total of 40 single-track beads were produced. Quality was assessed by visual inspection, metallography of cross-sections, microhardness testing, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) phase analysis. The energy input E and specific energy input G were calculated for each mode. Results and discussion. The minimum energy input required to form a continuous bead is found to be E ≥ 54 kJ. The optimal parameter window corresponds to E = 54–81 kJ at a scanning speed of 20–30 mm/min and a laser power of 1,860–2,700 W. At higher specific energy input, the iron content diffusing from the substrate increases, and the heat-affected zone expands. The microhardness of the coatings reaches 260–290 HV, significantly exceeding that of the initial steel substrate (≈150 HV). At lower G values, the structure contains the strengthening Ni3Al phase, while at higher G values, taenite (Fe0.64Fe0.36) becomes the dominant phase. Aluminum oxides are not detected in either case. Conclusions. Modes with E = 54–81 kJ and G = 3.3–5.0 kJ/g are recommended, as they provide a dense, defect-free coating with high hardness and the desired phase composition. Further increase in energy input is inadvisable due to excessive dilution with the substrate material. The obtained results can serve as a basis for developing technological regulations for the application of Ni–Al coatings.