Are you new to smoking and looking for some delicious and easy-to-make recipes to get started? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouth-watering smoker recipes that are perfect for beginners. From classic pulled pork to simple smoked chicken thighs, these recipes are designed to help you develop your smoking skills without feeling overwhelmed.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the world of smoking, these easy and delicious recipes will guide you through the process step by step. With minimal ingredients and no-fuss instructions, you’ll be enjoying tender, flavorful meats and sides in no time. So grab your smoker and let’s get cooking!
Classic Smoked Pulled Pork
This classic recipe yields tender, juicy pulled pork with a rich, smoky flavor. Perfect for sandwiches, salads, or served on its own, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 cup wood chips (such as hickory or apple)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Add wood chips according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Smoke for 8-10 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 190°F.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 30 minutes before pulling apart with two forks.
8. Serve with barbecue sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Simple Smoked Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner game with this straightforward recipe that yields tender, smoky chicken thighs. With just a few ingredients and some basic equipment, you’ll be enjoying fall-off-the-bone goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of flavor profile, e.g., hickory, apple, or cherry)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C). If you don’t have a smoker, use a charcoal grill with a lid or a gas grill set to the “smoke” setting.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Place the chicken in the smoker, skin side up (if it has skin).
5. Smoke for 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Every hour, add more wood chips as needed to maintain a consistent smoke flavor.
6. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Beginner-Friendly Smoked Brisket
This recipe yields a tender, flavorful smoked brisket with minimal effort. Perfect for beginners, this method requires only basic equipment and attention.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole brisket (5-7 lbs)
– 1 cup wood chips (post oak or apple)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Season the brisket evenly with salt and the spice mixture.
4. Place the brisket in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Close the lid and smoke for 8-10 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
6. Remove the brisket from the heat and let it rest for 30 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Easy Smoked Salmon Fillet
Easy Smoked Salmon Fillet Recipe
Smoky flavors and tender texture come together in this simple recipe for smoked salmon fillets. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp liquid smoke
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 100°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and kosher salt.
3. Place salmon fillets in a single layer on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or tray.
4. Sprinkle the sugar-salt mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon.
5. Drizzle liquid smoke and olive oil over the salmon, making sure they’re well-coated.
6. Smoke the salmon for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Pork Ribs with Basic Rub
A classic barbecue recipe that yields tender, flavorful ribs with a sweet and tangy glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– Basic Rub (see below)
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of smoking wood, such as hickory or apple)
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Basic Rub:
– 2 tablespoons paprika
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. Remove the membrane from the back of each rack and season with Basic Rub.
3. Place the ribs in the smoker, meat side up. Close the lid and smoke for 4 hours.
4. After 4 hours, slather the ribs with BBQ sauce and return to the smoker for an additional 30 minutes.
5. Remove the ribs from the smoker and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4 hours and 30 minutes
Smoked Turkey Breast for Newbies
Elevate your turkey game with this simple and delicious smoked turkey breast recipe. Perfect for a stress-free dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) turkey breast
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to cover evenly.
4. Place the turkey breast in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 4-6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Brush with olive oil during the last hour of smoking.
Cooking Time:
– 4-6 hours
Tips: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked to a safe internal temperature. If you don’t have a smoker, you can also use your oven set at 325°F (165°C) for 2-3 hours.
Quick Smoked Sausage Links
Quick Smoked Sausage Links Recipe
Get ready to add a smoky twist to your meal with this simple recipe that brings out the best in smoked sausage links.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 smoked sausage links (such as andouille or kielbasa)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika.
3. Place the sausage links on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
4. Brush the sausage links with the sugar-vinegar mixture, making sure to coat them evenly.
5. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the sausages are caramelized and slightly charred.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Mac and Cheese Side Dish
A rich and creamy twist on classic macaroni and cheese, this smoked version adds a deep, savory flavor profile that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add heavy cream, whisking constantly; bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce; transfer to a baking dish.
7. Top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Basic Smoked Meatloaf
A classic twist on a comfort food favorite, this Basic Smoked Meatloaf recipe adds a rich, smoky flavor to the traditional meatloaf.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup ketchup
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (or use a slow cooker).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place on a piece of aluminum foil or a smoker mat.
4. Smoke the meatloaf for 6-8 hours (or cook in a slow cooker on low for 8 hours).
5. During the last 30 minutes, brush with ketchup to glaze.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Smoked BBQ Chicken Wings
Get ready to fall in love with these tender, smoky, and tangy BBQ chicken wings! This recipe combines the richness of smoked flavor with the boldness of BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Toss chicken wings with the dry rub until evenly coated.
4. Place the wings in the smoker, closing the lid to maintain temperature and smoke.
5. Smoke for 2-3 hours or until wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Brush wings with BBQ sauce during the last 15 minutes of smoking.
7. Remove from heat and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Easy Smoked Pork Tenderloin
Transform a tender pork loin into a tender and flavorful masterpiece with this easy-to-follow recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork tenderloin, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the tenderloin in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 4-5 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Garlic Butter Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this decadent Smoked Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe, featuring succulent shrimp smothered in a rich and aromatic butter sauce. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and lemon juice.
3. Add the shrimp to the butter mixture and toss until evenly coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the shrimp in a single layer.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Simple Smoked Corn on the Cob
Elevate your summer BBQs with this effortless recipe that combines the natural sweetness of corn with the rich flavor of smoke.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/4 cup wood chips (apple or cherry work well)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F.
2. Place the wood chips in the smoker or grill, ensuring they’re fully lit and producing smoke.
3. Brush the corn with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
4. Place the corn on the cob directly into the smoker or grill, closing the lid to trap the heat and smoke.
5. Smoke for 20-25 minutes, or until the corn is tender and slightly charred.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Baked Potatoes with Toppings
Elevate your baked potatoes game by adding a smoky twist and a variety of delicious toppings. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or as a side dish for your next barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 cup wood chips (such as hickory, applewood, or mesquite)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Toppings:
+ Cheddar cheese, shredded
+ Sour cream
+ Diced onions
+ Crispy bacon bits
+ Chives or scallions
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the potatoes and sprinkle with salt.
4. Place the potatoes directly on the smoker racks, leaving about an inch of space between each potato.
5. Smoke the potatoes for 1-2 hours, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Top with your desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Beginner Smoked Pork Belly Strips
Transform your pork belly into crispy, smoky strips perfect for snacking or adding to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, sliced into 1/4-inch thick strips
– 1 cup wood chips (your preferred type of smoking wood)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture evenly onto both sides of the pork belly strips.
4. Place the seasoned strips in the smoker, close the lid, and smoke for 2-3 hours or until crispy.
5. Remove the strips from the smoker and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Note: Adjust the cooking time based on your desired level of crispiness.
Smoked Stuffed Bell Peppers
These smoked stuffed bell peppers are a twist on a classic recipe, adding a rich and savory flavor profile with the help of liquid smoke. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, these peppers are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Liquid smoke (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until heated through.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Easy Smoked Beef Short Ribs
Tender, fall-off-the-bone beef short ribs infused with the rich flavor of smoke and a hint of spice – this recipe is perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Remove any excess fat from the short ribs and apply the dry rub evenly to both sides of the meat.
4. Place the short ribs in the smoker and cook for 8 hours or until tender and falling off the bone.
5. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush with barbecue sauce (if using).
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 15-20 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 8 hours
Smoked Applewood Bacon
Transform your breakfast or snack game with this sweet and savory smoked applewood bacon recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound (450g) thick-cut bacon
– 1 cup (250ml) applewood chips
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and smoked paprika.
3. Place the bacon slices in a single layer on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or tray.
4. Sprinkle the sugar-paprika mixture evenly over the bacon slices.
5. Add the applewood chips to the smoker.
6. Smoke the bacon for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of smokiness.
Cooking Time:
– Smoking time: 2-3 hours
– Resting time: 30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fire up your smoker and start cooking with ease! This collection of 18 recipes is perfect for beginners, featuring classic smoky flavors and simple techniques. From pulled pork and chicken thighs to brisket and sausages, there’s something for everyone. Try out smoked mac and cheese, meatloaf, or BBQ wings as a side dish. Don’t forget about seafood options like salmon fillet and shrimp. With these beginner-friendly recipes, you’ll be smoking like a pro in no time!