Get ready to elevate your outdoor cooking game with these mouth-watering Traeger recipes! Whether you’re a BBQ novice or a seasoned pro, this list has something for everyone. From classic comfort foods to innovative twists on traditional dishes, we’ve rounded up 20 smoky Traeger recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
In this article, we’ll dive into a variety of delicious options that showcase the versatility and ease of using your Traeger grill. From tender meats to sweet treats, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, fire up your Traeger, and get ready to tantalize your taste buds!
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Traeger Smoked Brisket with Coffee Rub
This recipe combines the richness of smoked brisket with the bold, rich flavor of a coffee rub, creating a truly unique and mouth-watering dish. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (5-6 pound) beef brisket
– 1/2 cup coffee grounds
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together coffee grounds, brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the brisket, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the brisket in the Traeger, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 10 hours, or until tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Brush with vegetable oil during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 10 hours
Pulled Pork Shoulder with Apple Cider Glaze
This recipe brings together the tender, fall-apart texture of slow-cooked pork shoulder with the sweet and tangy flavor of apple cider glaze. Perfect for a weekend gathering or a casual dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork shoulder in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker.
5. Cook for 8-10 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the honey all over the pork shoulder.
7. Shred the pork with two forks and serve.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Smoked Maple-Glazed Salmon
Smoked Maple-Glazed Salmon Recipe
This sweet and savory glazed salmon recipe combines the richness of smoked salmon with the warmth of maple syrup, creating a deliciously unique flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
4. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over the salmon, making sure to cover all surfaces.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Traeger Smoked Turkey with Herb Butter
This recipe combines the rich flavors of a slow-smoked turkey with the brightness of fresh herbs, all wrapped up in a compound butter that’s sure to impress. Perfect for special occasions or just a delicious weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 lb) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup Traeger wood pellets (your preferred flavor)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Traeger to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Place the turkey in the Traeger, breast side up. Close the lid and smoke for 8 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. During the last hour of cooking, baste the turkey with herb butter every 20 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 30 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 8 hours
BBQ Smoked Ribs with Dry Rub
Smokey flavor meets tender texture in this mouthwatering recipe for BBQ Smoked Ribs with Dry Rub.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1 cup dry rub mixture (see below)
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 cup wood chips (your preferred type, e.g., hickory or apple)
Dry Rub Mixture:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker or charcoal grill to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix dry rub ingredients.
3. Remove membrane from ribs; pat dry with paper towels.
4. Apply dry rub evenly to both sides of the ribs.
5. Place ribs in smoker or grill, bone-side down.
6. Smoke for 4-5 hours, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
7. Brush with BBQ sauce during last 30 minutes of cooking.
8. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Mac and Cheese with Bacon
This rich and creamy macaroni dish gets a smoky twist with the addition of smoked cheddar cheese and crispy bacon. Perfect for a comforting meal or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup smoked cheddar cheese, shredded
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 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.
4. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
7. Remove from heat and stir in smoked cheddar cheese until melted.
8. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce; season with salt and pepper.
9. Transfer macaroni to a baking dish and top with crumbled bacon.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Traeger Smoked Chicken Wings with Buffalo Sauce
Savor the rich flavors of slow-smoked chicken wings smothered in spicy buffalo sauce, perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1 cup Traeger Wood Pellets (your choice of wood type)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger grill to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the wing tips and pat dry with paper towels. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both wings.
4. Place the wings on the Traeger grill and smoke for 2-1/2 hours or until tender and slightly charred.
5. During the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush the wings with buffalo sauce (you can use as much or little as you like).
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-1/2 hours
Smoked Pork Belly Burnt Ends
Burnt ends are a classic barbecue favorite, but when you add smoked pork belly to the mix, it takes things to a whole new level. This recipe combines the tender, unctuous texture of pork belly with the sweet and smoky flavor of burnt ends.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork belly
– 1 cup dry rub (your favorite blend)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 cup wood chips (your preferred smoking wood)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together dry rub, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork belly, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork belly in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
6. After 4 hours, add wood chips to the smoker for an extra boost of flavor.
7. Once the pork belly is done, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for 10 minutes.
8. Slice into thick slabs and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 6 hours
Traeger Smoked Meatloaf with BBQ Glaze
Elevate your meatloaf game with this Traeger-smoked recipe, featuring a tangy BBQ glaze that adds depth and complexity to the classic dish. This is an easy and impressive meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup BBQ glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 225°F.
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl until just combined.
3. Form into a loaf shape and place on the Traeger grill mat.
4. Smoke for 2 hours.
5. During the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush with BBQ glaze and sprinkle with brown sugar.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Smoked Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers
Succulent shrimp smothered in a rich smoked garlic butter sauce, all wrapped up in a convenient skewer package.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each shrimp.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over both sides of the shrimp.
5. If using white wine, drizzle it over the shrimp.
6. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Traeger Smoked Tri-Tip with Chimichurri
Transform your tri-tip into a tender, flavorful masterpiece by smoking it to perfection on your Traeger grill. This recipe combines the rich flavors of smoked meat with the bright, herby notes of chimichurri for an unforgettable combination.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 pound beef tri-tip
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/2 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger grill to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, parsley, oregano, garlic, and red wine vinegar for the chimichurri.
3. Season the tri-tip with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Place the tri-tip in the Traeger grill and smoke for 4-5 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. Brush the chimichurri all over the tri-tip during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
6. Let the tri-tip rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, these smoked bell peppers are packed with savory goodness.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef or turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes. Place them in a large bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, combine ground beef or turkey, onion, garlic, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers on the smoker racks, cover, and smoke for 2-3 hours, or until tender.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes. Serve warm, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Traeger Smoked Pork Chops with Peach Glaze
Elevate your pork chops game with this sweet and smoky recipe that combines the richness of Traeger-smoked pork with a tangy peach glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in pork chops
– 1 cup peaches, diced
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 225°F (110°C).
2. Season pork chops with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Place pork chops on the Traeger grill grates, fat side up.
4. Smoke for 2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. In a saucepan, combine peaches, brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
7. Brush peach glaze over pork chops during the last 10 minutes of smoking.
8. Remove from Traeger and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Smoked Beer Can Chicken
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with this mouthwatering Smoked Beer Can Chicken recipe! This tender and juicy bird is smothered in a sweet and tangy glaze, all thanks to the magic of beer can chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 1 can of beer
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Place the can of beer in the chicken’s cavity.
4. In a small bowl, mix together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
6. Place the chicken in the smoker, close the lid, and cook for 4-5 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
7. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Traeger Smoked Sausage and Peppers
Experience the perfect blend of smoky flavor and spicy kick with this simple Traeger recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 smoked sausages (your choice of flavor)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite BBQ sauce for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger to 275°F.
2. Place the sliced onion and bell peppers in a single layer on the Traeger grill grates.
3. Add the minced garlic, spreading it evenly among the vegetables.
4. Place the smoked sausages on top of the vegetables.
5. Close the lid and smoke for 1 hour.
6. Remove the sausages and brush with olive oil.
7. Return to the Traeger and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the sausages are nicely browned.
8. Serve hot, with your favorite BBQ sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Smoked Corn on the Cob with Chipotle Butter
Elevate your grilling game with this smoky twist on classic corn on the cob, infused with the rich flavor of chipotle butter. Perfect for summer gatherings or casual BBQs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, chipotle peppers, and lime juice until smooth.
3. Brush the corn ears with oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, or until slightly charred.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the chipotle butter mixture onto the corn.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Traeger Smoked Lamb Chops with Mint Sauce
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this unique combination of tender lamb chops smoked to perfection and served with a zesty mint sauce. Perfect for a warm evening gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lamb chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 1/4 cup Traeger Smoked Hickory Pellets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and salt. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the lamb chops.
3. Place the lamb chops on the Traeger grill grates and smoke for 4-5 hours or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
4. Meanwhile, combine mint leaves, Greek yogurt, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Mix well to form the mint sauce.
5. Remove the lamb chops from the Traeger and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving with the mint sauce.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Loaded Baked Potatoes
Elevate your baked potato game with this smoky twist. Tender potatoes loaded with crispy bacon, tangy cheese, and creamy sour cream – it’s a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with a little bit of oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Bake the potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While the potatoes are baking, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove the potatoes from the oven and top each one with crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
7. Sprinkle with smoked paprika to add that extra smoky flavor.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Traeger Smoked Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
Elevate your sandwich game with these tender and flavorful Traeger Smoked Pulled Chicken Sandwiches. The slow-cooked chicken is infused with a rich, smoky flavor that’s perfect for casual gatherings or quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup Traeger Chicken Rub
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 8 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Traeger to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chicken rub, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Place the chicken on the Traeger grill mat and cook for 8 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. Shred the chicken with two forks and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the pulled chicken on hamburger buns, topped with coleslaw if desired.
Cooking Time: 8 hours
Smoked Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar
Elevate your snack game with this addictive treat! Sweet and smoky pineapple rings are coated in a crunchy cinnamon sugar mixture, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a unique appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pineapple
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F (110°C). If you don’t have a smoker, you can use liquid smoke or omit this step.
2. Cut the pineapple into 1-inch (2.5 cm) rings.
3. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and smoked paprika.
4. Place the pineapple rings in a single layer on a baking sheet. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the pineapple.
5. Smoke or grill the pineapple for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove from heat and brush with water to help the sugar stick.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fire up your Traeger grill and try out these mouth-watering smoky recipes for every occasion! From classic BBQ favorites like ribs and pulled pork, to more adventurous dishes like smoked mac and cheese with bacon, there’s something for everyone. Try Traeger Smoked Brisket with Coffee Rub, Pulled Pork Shoulder with Apple Cider Glaze, or Smoked Maple-Glazed Salmon for a taste of the good life. With over 20 recipes to choose from, you’ll never run out of new ideas to impress your friends and family. Fire up your Traeger and get grilling!