Get ready to take your grilling game to the next level with these 20 mouth-watering smoky Traeger recipes! Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting out, these delicious dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and meatloaf, to savory meats like brisket and ribs, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be sharing our top 20 Traeger recipes that are guaranteed to bring the heat – literally! With a focus on smoky flavors, these recipes use the Traeger’s signature wood-fired cooking method to add depth and complexity to every dish. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your next backyard barbecue or just want to try something new and exciting, we’ve got you covered.
So grab your apron, fire up that Traeger, and let’s get started!
Smoked Traeger Brisket with Coffee Rub
Elevate your brisket game with this rich and savory recipe that combines the deep flavors of smoked meat with the bold notes of a coffee rub.
Ingredients:
– 1 beef brisket (5-7 pounds)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup coffee grounds (medium-dark roast)
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup wood chips (post oak or mesquite)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, coffee grounds, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and 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. Close the lid and smoke for 10 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 30 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 10 hours
Traeger Grilled Honey Garlic Salmon
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this Traeger-grilled salmon recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously glazed fish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger grill to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, garlic, olive oil, and Dijon mustard.
3. Place salmon fillets on the Traeger grill, skin side down (if applicable).
4. Brush the honey glaze evenly over each fillet.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smoked Traeger Pork Ribs with Dry Rub
Perfectly tender and flavorful, these Smoked Traeger Pork Ribs with Dry Rub are a mouth-watering twist on classic BBQ ribs. With the rich smokiness of the Traeger and the bold flavors of the dry rub, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1 cup dry rub mixture (see below for recipe)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Dry Rub Mixture:
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 2 tablespoons ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 225°F (110°C).
2. Remove membrane from back of ribs.
3. Apply dry rub mixture evenly to both racks of ribs.
4. Place ribs on Traeger, bone-side down.
5. Close lid and smoke for 8 hours or until tender.
6. Brush with brown sugar and smoked paprika during last hour of cooking.
Cooking Time: 8 hours
Traeger Smoked Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, smoky twist on a classic mac and cheese recipe. Traeger’s smoke flavor adds depth and richness to this indulgent dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger grill to 275°F (135°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. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly; bring to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a large bowl.
7. Transfer the mixture to a Traeger grill-safe dish and smoke for 30 minutes at 275°F (135°C).
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Grilled Traeger Chicken Thighs with BBQ Sauce
Get ready for fall-off-the-bone tender chicken thighs smothered in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, all with the convenience of your Traeger grill.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger grill to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
4. Place the chicken on the Traeger grill, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Close the lid and cook for 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. During the last 10 minutes of cooking, brush the BBQ sauce all over the chicken thighs.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes total
Enjoy your deliciously smoky and saucy Traeger chicken thighs!
Smoked Traeger Turkey Breast with Herb Butter
Savor the rich flavors of smoked turkey breast paired with a savory herb butter, perfect for a special occasion or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, parsley, thyme, rosemary, and garlic until well combined.
3. Season turkey breast with salt and pepper.
4. Place turkey breast in the Traeger, fat side up.
5. Smoke turkey for 6-8 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, top turkey with herb butter.
7. Let turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Traeger Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar
Elevate your outdoor cooking game by grilling pineapple rings to perfection, infused with a warm cinnamon sugar crust. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into 1-inch thick rings
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger grill to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Brush both sides of the pineapple rings with a little water.
4. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over both sides of the pineapple rings.
5. Place the pineapple rings on the Traeger grill and cook for 10-12 minutes per side, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes
Smoked Traeger Meatloaf with Bacon Wrap
Transform your meatloaf game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the rich flavors of smoked meats and crispy bacon. Perfect for a weekend dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Traeger to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Shape into a loaf and place on the Traeger rack.
4. Wrap the bacon slices around the meatloaf, securing with toothpicks if needed.
5. Cook for 2-1/2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the meatloaf with brown sugar and Worcestershire sauce.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Traeger Grilled Garlic Butter Shrimp
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this mouthwatering Traeger recipe that combines the flavors of garlic and butter with succulent shrimp. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger grill to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Place the shrimp on a piece of aluminum foil or a silicone mat, leaving space between each shrimp.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the shrimp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Close the Traeger lid and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and fully cooked.
7. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Smoked Traeger Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Get ready for a mouth-watering twist on traditional pulled pork with the smoky flavor of your Traeger grill.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw, pickle slices, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork on the Traeger grill, close the lid, and smoke for 8 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 190°F.
5. After 8 hours, remove the pork from the Traeger and use two forks to pull it apart into shreds.
6. Mix in BBQ sauce until well coated.
7. Split hamburger buns in half and toast on the Traeger for a few minutes.
8. Assemble sandwiches by spooning pulled pork onto the buns, followed by coleslaw, pickle slices, and any other desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (plus prep time)
Traeger Grilled Vegetable Medley
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this colorful medley of grilled vegetables, perfectly seasoned and smoky from the Traeger. This recipe is a perfect side dish or add it to wraps, salads, or sandwiches for a flavorful boost.
Ingredients:
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 2 zucchinis, sliced
– 1 yellow squash, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs (e.g., thyme, oregano)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, toss together sliced vegetables, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Load the vegetable mixture onto the Traeger grates.
4. Close the lid and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with your favorite herbs (if using).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Traeger Whole Chicken with Lemon Herb
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the rich taste of smoke with the brightness of lemon and herbs. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy Sunday dinner, this whole chicken is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped rosemary
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place sliced lemons inside the cavity of the chicken.
5. Stuff rosemary sprigs into the cavity along with the lemons.
6. Place the chicken on the Traeger grill, breast side up.
7. Smoke for 2-3 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
8. Let rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Traeger Grilled Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this Traeger recipe brings out the natural sweetness of bell peppers and pairs it with savory fillings.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef (or alternative protein)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Shredded cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off 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 into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until combined.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, filling to the top.
6. Place peppers on the Traeger grill grate and cook for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
7. Serve warm, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Traeger Beef Short Ribs
Smoked Traeger Beef Short Ribs Recipe
Get ready for fall-off-the-bone tender beef short ribs smothered in a rich, savory smoke flavor. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 beef short ribs
– 1 cup Traeger Smoker Salt
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Traeger to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Traeger Smoker Salt, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the short ribs, making sure to coat them evenly.
4. Place the short ribs on the Traeger grill, leaving about 1 inch of space between each rib.
5. Close the lid and smoke for 8 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
6. During the last 30 minutes, brush the short ribs with beef broth and apple cider vinegar.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 8 hours
Traeger Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon
Elevate your grilling game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the rich flavor of cedar plank with the tender, flaky texture of salmon. Perfect for a dinner party or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cedar plank (12 x 6 inches)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger grill to 375°F.
2. Rinse the cedar plank under cold water, then brush with olive oil.
3. Place a salmon fillet on each plank, leaving a 1-inch border around the fish.
4. Drizzle lemon juice, mustard, and sprinkle dill over the salmon.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Close the Traeger lid and cook for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smoked Traeger Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this sweet and spicy twist on classic corn on the cob.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chili lime sauce (or to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger smoker to 275°F.
2. Place the corn on the cob in the smoker, leaving a small space between each ear.
3. Smoke the corn for 45-60 minutes, or until slightly caramelized and tender.
4. Meanwhile, mix the softened butter with chili lime sauce until well combined.
5. Once the corn is done smoking, brush the chili lime butter mixture evenly over each ear.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Traeger Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Chimichurri
Elevate your lamb chops game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe, perfect for a warm weather dinner party. The combination of tender lamb, herby mint chimichurri, and smoky Traeger grilling will leave your guests begging for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds lamb chops
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, parsley, mint, garlic, and red wine vinegar.
3. Season lamb chops with salt and pepper.
4. Grill lamb chops for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Brush chimichurri sauce on lamb chops during the last 2 minutes of grilling.
6. Let lamb chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 17-20 minutes
Smoked Traeger Pork Belly Burnt Ends
Transform your pork belly into tender, smoky burnt ends with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger smoker to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Toss the pork belly cubes with the spice mixture until evenly coated.
4. Place the pork belly cubes in the Traeger smoker, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Close the lid and smoke for 4-5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).
6. During the last 30 minutes of smoking, baste with apple cider vinegar mixed with water.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Traeger Grilled Peach Cobbler
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of grilled peaches topped with a crispy cobbler crust, all perfectly cooked to perfection on your Traeger grill. This summer dessert is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe peaches, sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger grill to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together peaches, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Place peach mixture on the Traeger grill grates in a single layer.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, flour, baking powder, and salt. Pour batter over peaches.
5. Dot top with melted butter.
6. Close lid and cook for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Traeger Sausage and Peppers Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the rich flavor of smoked sausage with sweet bell peppers, onions, and crispy potatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Smoked Traeger Sausage (any variety)
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or chili flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the sliced potatoes; cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until they start to brown.
5. Place the Smoked Traeger Sausage in the skillet, slicing it into bite-sized pieces if desired.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the sausage is caramelized and crispy.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you like.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your grilling game with these mouthwatering Smoky Traeger Recipes! From tender brisket and fall-off-the-bone pork ribs, to succulent shrimp and sweet corn on the cob, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a BBQ aficionado or just looking for new inspiration, this collection of 20 recipes will guide you through the process of smoking and grilling like a pro. From classic comfort foods to innovative twists, these Traeger recipes are sure to become your go-to favorites.
