Getting started with smoking meats can seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be! With a little practice and patience, you’ll be whipping up delicious smoked dishes like a pro. And the best part? You don’t need to be a seasoned pitmaster to get great results.
In this article, we’re sharing 20 quick and easy smoker recipes that are perfect for beginners. From classic BBQ favorites to creative twists on old standbys, these recipes will help you get started with smoking meats. Whether you’re looking to impress your friends and family or just want to try something new, you’ll find inspiration in this collection of mouth-watering smoked dishes.
Smoked BBQ Chicken Thighs
Elevate your barbecue game with these tender and flavorful smoked chicken thighs, smothered in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. Perfect for backyard gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Wood chips for smoking (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Apply the spice blend evenly to both sides of the chicken thighs.
4. Place the chicken in the smoker, closing the lid to maintain heat and smoke.
5. Smoke for 2-3 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Brush with BBQ sauce during the last 30 minutes of smoking.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours, depending on your smoker’s temperature and humidity.
Easy Smoked Pork Ribs
Easy Smoked Pork Ribs Recipe
Transform your pork ribs into tender, juicy, and flavorful bites with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds pork ribs (St. Louis-style or baby back)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
- Mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly onto both sides of the pork ribs.
- Place the ribs on the smoker set at 225°F (110°C). Close the lid and smoke for 4-5 hours or until tender.
- In the last 30 minutes, brush the ribs with apple cider vinegar and water mixture. This will add a tangy glaze.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Salmon with Lemon and Dill
This recipe combines the richness of smoked salmon with the brightness of lemon and the freshness of dill, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
2. Add the flaked smoked salmon, salt, and pepper to the bowl; gently fold until combined.
3. Stir in the chopped fresh dill.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is a simple assembly of ingredients, requiring no cooking.
Smoked Beef Brisket with Dry Rub
Elevate your BBQ game with this tender and flavorful smoked beef brisket recipe, featuring a savory dry rub that adds depth and complexity to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole beef brisket (5-6 pounds)
– 1/2 cup dry rub mixture (see below for ingredients)
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of hickory, apple, or cherry)
Dry Rub Mixture:
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. Trim excess fat from the brisket, if needed.
3. Apply dry rub mixture evenly across the surface of the brisket.
4. Place brisket in smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 10-12 hours or until tender and easily shredded with a fork.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 30 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 10-12 hours
Smoked Turkey Breast with Herb Butter
Elevate your holiday feast with this impressive and flavorful smoked turkey breast, paired with a rich herb butter that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless turkey breast
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 250°F.
2. Season the turkey breast with salt and pepper.
3. Place the turkey breast in the smoker, fat side up.
4. Smoke for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Meanwhile, mix together the softened butter, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to create the herb butter.
6. Once the turkey is done, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
7. Serve with the herb butter spread on top.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and creamy Smoked Mac and Cheese recipe. The subtle smokiness adds a depth of flavor that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 tsp 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 together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Add smoked paprika and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce, stirring until well coated.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoked Sausage and Peppers
A classic comfort food combination that’s easy to make and packed with flavor! This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 4 hamburger buns for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the sliced peppers and onion to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve the sausage and pepper mixture on hamburger buns (if using) or enjoy as a standalone dish.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Pork Shoulder
Smoked Pork Shoulder Recipe
Summary: Slow-cook a pork shoulder with the rich flavor of smoke and spices to create tender, fall-apart meat perfect for sandwiches or pulled pork.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork shoulder
– 1 cup BBQ rub
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 cup liquid smoke (optional)
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together BBQ rub, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork shoulder in the smoker and cook for 8-10 hours, or until tender and easily shredded with a fork.
5. If using liquid smoke, brush it on the pork during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before shredding and serving.
Cook Time: 8-10 hours
Smoked Corn on the Cob
Smoked Corn on the Cob Recipe
This recipe yields a deliciously tender and smoky corn on the cob that’s perfect for barbecues, picnics, or just a quick weeknight dinner. With minimal prep time and no special equipment required, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful side dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the corn with the sugar-paprika mixture, making sure each ear is evenly coated.
4. Place the corn in the smoker and cook for 45-60 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Remove the corn from the smoker and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Smoked Garlic Butter Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of smoked garlic butter with succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cloves smoked garlic (or regular garlic), minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together softened butter, smoked garlic, and salt.
3. Add shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with garlic butter mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange shrimp in a single layer.
5. Drizzle white wine over the shrimp (if using).
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Smoked Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the smoky flavor of smoked sausage and cheese, creating a deliciously savory dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (or use a slow cooker).
2. Cut tops off bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage until browned, then add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with cooked rice, sausage mixture, and cheese.
5. Place stuffed peppers in smoker or slow cooker and cook for 2-3 hours, or until bell peppers are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked BBQ Pulled Pork
A classic Southern favorite, this smoked BBQ pulled pork recipe is a crowd-pleaser. With a tender and flavorful result, you’ll want to make it again and again.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 cup BBQ rub
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple)
– 1/4 cup liquid smoke
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together BBQ rub, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
4. Place the pork in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 8-10 hours, or until tender and easily shredded with a fork.
6. During the last hour of cooking, add wood chips to the smoker for added flavor.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 30 minutes before pulling apart.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Smoked Whole Chicken
Savor the rich flavor of slow-smoked chicken with this simple recipe. Perfect for a special occasion or family gathering, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in the smoker, breast side up.
6. Smoke for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
7. Remove the chicken from the smoker and let rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Smoked Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Elevate your asparagus game with this simple yet impressive recipe, featuring crispy smoked bacon and a hint of sweet caramelization.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
• 6 slices smoked bacon (thicker cuts work best)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the asparagus spears on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of smoked bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
5. Drizzle the asparagus and bacon with olive oil; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Smoked Tri-Tip Steak
This recipe yields a mouth-watering smoked tri-tip steak with a tender, juicy interior and a rich, smoky flavor. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) tri-tip steak
– 1 cup wood chips (such as post oak or mesquite)
– 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.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the tri-tip steak, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the tri-tip steak in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 4-5 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked BBQ Baby Back Ribs
Get ready to fall in love with the tender and juicy flavor of these Smoked BBQ Baby Back Ribs, perfectly balanced between sweet and savory.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks baby back ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1 cup BBQ rub
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon liquid smoke
– Wood chips for smoking (preferably hickory or apple)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together BBQ rub and brown sugar.
3. Remove membrane from the back of each rack of ribs.
4. Apply the dry rub mixture evenly to both sides of the ribs.
5. Place ribs in the smoker, bone side down.
6. Close smoker lid and smoke for 4 hours.
7. In a small bowl, mix together apple cider vinegar, water, and liquid smoke.
8. After 4 hours, brush the ribs with the vinegar mixture.
9. Smoke for an additional 30 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
10. Remove from heat, let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Smoked Garlic Parmesan Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this rich and savory recipe that combines the flavors of smoked garlic, parmesan cheese, and crispy texture. Perfect as a side dish or topping for your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes
– 1/4 cup smoked garlic spread (or regular garlic mayonnaise)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wash and dry the potatoes.
3. Slice the potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
4. In a bowl, mix smoked garlic spread with Parmesan cheese.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange potato slices in a single layer.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the potatoes. Sprinkle the smoked garlic-Parmesan mixture evenly over the potatoes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Pineapple with Cinnamon
This recipe adds a new dimension to grilled pineapple by infusing it with the rich flavor of cinnamon and the subtle smokiness from liquid smoke. Perfect as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or even using as a glaze for meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into 1-inch chunks
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon liquid smoke
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, honey, and cinnamon.
3. Brush the pineapple chunks with the sugar mixture until evenly coated.
4. Place the pineapple chunks on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
5. Remove from heat and drizzle with liquid smoke and lime juice.
6. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Chicken Wings with Buffalo Sauce
Get ready to spice up your game day or any occasion with these mouthwatering smoked chicken wings smothered in a creamy Buffalo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1 cup wood chips (your preferred type, e.g., hickory, apple)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the wing tips and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Smoke the wings for 2-3 hours or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, heat Buffalo sauce according to package instructions (or make your own).
6. Once wings are done smoking, toss in Buffalo sauce until fully coated.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Beer Can Chicken
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with this mouth-watering Smoked Beer Can Chicken recipe! By infusing the chicken with the rich flavors of beer and wood smoke, you’ll be treated to a tender, juicy masterpiece that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 1 can of your favorite beer
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wood chips for smoking (your choice of flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the beer can in the cavity of the chicken and put it in the smoker.
6. Smoke for 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
7. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Summary
Get ready to elevate your BBQ game with these 20 quick and easy smoker recipes perfect for beginners! From classic favorites like smoked pork ribs and smoked chicken wings, to more unique options like smoked salmon with lemon and dill or smoked pineapple with cinnamon, there’s something for everyone. These simple and delicious recipes will have you experimenting with new flavors and techniques in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this collection of smoker recipes is sure to inspire your next backyard cookout.
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