Getting started with your Traeger grill can seem intimidating, especially if you’re new to smoking meats. But fear not! With these 18 simple and easy Traeger recipes, you’ll be a pro in no time. From tender pulled pork to smoky salmon, we’ve got you covered with a variety of delicious dishes that are perfect for beginners.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most popular and easiest Traeger recipes out there. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course for your next BBQ gathering, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So grab your apron and let’s get started!
Traeger Smoked Pulled Pork
Elevate your BBQ game with this effortless Traeger smoked pulled pork recipe that yields tender, flavorful results. With a minimal amount of prep and a few hours on the grill, you’ll be rewarded with deliciously smoky meat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, 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 grates, close lid, and smoke for 8 hours or until tender.
5. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the pork with apple cider vinegar and water mixture.
6. Once cooked, remove from heat and let rest for 15-20 minutes before shredding.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8 hours
Easy Traeger Smoked Chicken Thighs
Easy Traeger Smoked Chicken Thighs: A Simple and Delicious Recipe for a Crowd-Pleasing Main Course
Transform your backyard into a smoker’s paradise with these easy-to-make Traeger smoked chicken thighs. With just a few ingredients and some tender loving care, you’ll be rewarded with fall-off-the-bone tender and juicy chicken that’s packed with smoky flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of hardwood or a blend)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl and brush the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Load the wood chips into the Traeger according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Place the chicken thighs on the Traeger grill mat or directly on the grill grates.
6. Smoke for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Traeger Smoked Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, smoky macaroni and cheese recipe, perfectly cooked to perfection on your Traeger grill.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger grill to 275°F (135°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in milk, then stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add cooked macaroni, paprika, salt, and pepper to the cheese sauce. Stir until combined.
6. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a Traeger-approved baking dish or a foil pan with a heat deflector.
7. Smoke for 2-3 hours, or until the top is golden brown and the mac and cheese is heated through.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Simple Traeger Smoked Salmon
Elevate your snack game with this straightforward recipe that yields tender, flavorful smoked salmon with a rich, smoky flavor. Perfect for topping crackers or serving as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salmon fillet (wild-caught or sustainably sourced)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, kosher salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillet on the Traeger grill mat or a piece of aluminum foil lined with parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle the sugar-salt mixture evenly over the salmon, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Close the lid and smoke for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Remove the salmon from the Traeger and brush with apple cider vinegar and water.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Easy Traeger Grilled Vegetables
Easy Traeger Grilled Vegetables
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple recipe that brings out the natural flavors of your favorite veggies. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 eggplant, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (for added flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger grill to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant to the bowl. Toss to coat with the marinade.
4. Place the vegetables on the Traeger grill and cook for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly charred.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with feta cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Traeger Smoked Beef Brisket
This recipe yields a tender, flavorful beef brisket with a rich, smoky profile that’s sure to please. Perfect for special occasions or casual gatherings, this dish is easy to make and packed with delicious flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole beef brisket (5-7 pounds)
– 1 cup Traeger Smoker Box pellets
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger grill 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 brisket, making sure to cover every surface evenly.
4. Place the brisket in the Traeger grill, fat side up.
5. Close the lid and smoke for 10 hours, or until the brisket reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
6. Let the brisket rest for 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 10 hours
Quick Traeger Smoked Turkey Breast
Elevate your turkey game with this simple and flavorful recipe that yields a deliciously smoky and juicy breast. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals, this quick Traeger method ensures tender and aromatic results.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless turkey breast
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place turkey breast on the Traeger grates, skin side down (if it has skin).
4. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the turkey breast.
5. Close the lid and smoke for 2-1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Easy Traeger Smoked Ribs
Easy Traeger Smoked Ribs: A deliciously tender and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds total)
– 1 cup of your favorite BBQ rub
– 1 cup of wood chips (hickory or apple work well)
– 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Traeger to 225°F.
2. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and season with BBQ rub, making sure to coat all surfaces evenly.
3. Place the ribs in the Traeger, bone side down.
4. Smoke for 4-5 hours or until the meat is tender and pulls away easily from the bone.
5. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the ribs with a mixture of brown sugar and smoked paprika.
6. Remove the ribs from the Traeger and let them rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Tips: Make sure to keep an eye on the temperature and adjust as needed. You can also add more wood chips during the last hour of cooking for extra flavor.
Traeger Smoked Meatloaf
Elevate your meatloaf game with this tender and flavorful recipe, infused with the rich flavors of a Traeger smoker. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– Wood pellets (hickory or apple work well)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 225°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, ketchup, garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Add egg and chopped onion; mix until smooth.
4. Form into a loaf shape and place on Traeger grill mat or directly on the grill grates.
5. Close lid and smoke for 2 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Simple Traeger Smoked Sausages
Elevate your sausage game with this straightforward recipe that yields tender, smoky sausages with minimal fuss.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 smoked sausages (any variety)
– 1 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 Traeger grill to 225°F.
2. Place the sausages on the grill, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
3. Close the lid and smoke for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
4. After 2 hours, mix the brown sugar and smoked paprika in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over the sausages.
5. Continue smoking for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Remove the sausages from the grill and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Easy Traeger Smoked Pork Chops
Pork chops are a classic favorite that get even better with the rich flavor of smoke from your Traeger. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with delicious results.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 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
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture evenly onto both sides of the pork chops.
4. Place the pork chops in the Traeger, close the lid, and smoke for 2 hours.
5. After 2 hours, brush the chops with apple cider vinegar and continue smoking for an additional 30 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Traeger Smoked Baked Beans
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with these tender and flavorful Traeger-smoked baked beans, infused with the rich flavor of wood smoke. Perfect for a summer cookout or family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of hardwood, such as hickory or mesquite)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger grill to 225°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine beans, onion, garlic, ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Place the bean mixture on the Traeger grill, spreading evenly in a single layer.
4. Close the lid and smoke for 8 hours or until the beans are tender and caramelized.
5. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, add wood chips to infuse the beans with smoky flavor.
Cooking Time: 8 hours
Quick Traeger Smoked Corn on the Cob
Elevate your summer barbecues with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of smoke with the sweetness of corn. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or just a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/4 cup Traeger Smoker Wood Pellets (your choice of flavor)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger grill to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil and salt.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
4. Place the ears of corn directly on the Traeger grill grates.
5. Close the lid and smoke for 30 minutes.
6. During the last 10 minutes, add the Traeger Smoker Wood Pellets according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Remove the corn from the grill when it reaches your desired level of smokiness.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Easy Traeger Smoked Potatoes
Transform plain potatoes into a mouthwatering side dish with this simple recipe that yields tender, flavorful results.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, chives, or crumbled bacon for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger grill to 275°F (135°C).
2. Wash and poke some holes in the potatoes.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the potato mixture to the bowl and toss until coated evenly.
5. Place the potatoes directly on the Traeger grill, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space between each.
6. Close the lid and smoke for 3-4 hours or until tender when pierced with a fork.
7. Optional: Sprinkle with garlic powder, chives, or crumbled bacon for extra flavor.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Traeger Smoked Garlic Butter Shrimp
Smoked Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe for Your Traeger
This decadent dish combines the rich flavors of garlic butter with succulent shrimp, all smothered in the deep, smoky taste of your Traeger. Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Place the shrimp on the Traeger grill mat or directly on the grates.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over both sides of the shrimp.
5. Sprinkle smoked paprika over the shrimp.
6. Close the lid and smoke for 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Simple Traeger Smoked Chicken Wings
Elevate your snack game with this easy and mouth-watering recipe for smoky chicken wings, perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying tender, flavorful wings in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup Traeger Smoked Wood Chips (your choice of flavor)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger grill or smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss the chicken wings with the mixture until fully coated.
4. Place the wings on the Traeger grill or smoker, leaving space between each wing.
5. Smoke for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Easy Traeger Smoked Tri-Tip
Easy Traeger Smoked Tri-Tip: A deliciously tender and flavorful tri-tip recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 pound beef tri-tip roast
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of hickory, oak, or a combination)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger grill to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the tri-tip roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the tri-tip roast on the Traeger grill, fat side up.
5. Close the lid and let the Tri-Tip smoke for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of tenderness.
6. Once cooked, remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Traeger Smoked Stuffed Peppers
Get ready to elevate your stuffed pepper game with this recipe that combines sweet bell peppers with savory ground beef, rice, and cheese, all smothered in a rich Traeger smoke.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 275°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and 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, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture, followed by cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
6. Place peppers on the Traeger, close lid, and smoke for 2 hours.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Summary
Looking to get started with your Traeger grill? Look no further! This article features 18 simple and easy recipes perfect for beginners. From classic smoked pulled pork to flavorful grilled vegetables, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. You’ll also find delicious variations on comfort food favorites like mac and cheese and baked beans, as well as some international-inspired dishes. With step-by-step instructions and minimal ingredients required, you’ll be a Traeger pro in no time!