If you’re a fan of barbecue and smoked dishes, then a Traeger grill is a must-have. Known for its wood pellet grilling system, the Traeger grill brings out a rich, smoky flavor that transforms everyday ingredients into gourmet meals. From slow-cooked brisket to perfectly smoked vegetables, the Traeger is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re cooking for a backyard party or just a family dinner, these Traeger recipes will elevate your grilling game to new heights.
1. Traeger Smoked Brisket
A smoked brisket is a true test of any grill master’s skills, and the Traeger grill makes it easier than ever to get that tender, fall-apart result.
Ingredients:
- 10-12 lb beef brisket
- 1/4 cup mustard (as a binder)
- 1/2 cup Traeger beef rub or your favorite rub
- 1/2 cup apple juice or beef broth (for spritzing)
Instructions:
- Preheat your Traeger to 225°F. While it’s heating up, trim excess fat from the brisket and generously coat it with mustard, then rub with your favorite seasoning blend.
- Place the brisket on the grill, fat side up, and let it smoke for about 6-8 hours. Spritz the brisket with apple juice or broth every hour after the first three hours.
- Once the internal temperature reaches around 165°F, wrap the brisket in butcher paper or foil and continue cooking until it reaches an internal temperature of 203°F.
- Let it rest for at least 1 hour before slicing. Serve and enjoy!
2. Traeger Smoked Chicken Wings
These smoked chicken wings are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, with a smoky flavor that makes them irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup Traeger chicken rub or your preferred seasoning
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your Traeger grill to 350°F.
- Toss the chicken wings in olive oil and season generously with the rub.
- Place the wings on the grill and smoke for about 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- For extra flavor, brush the wings with barbecue sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Remove from the grill, serve with dipping sauces, and enjoy your crispy, smoky wings.
3. Traeger Smoked Salmon
For a lighter, healthier option, smoked salmon on the Traeger grill is a fantastic choice. The wood-fired flavor pairs beautifully with the richness of the salmon.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs salmon fillet
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh dill (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Traeger to 180°F for a slow smoke.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder.
- Brush the salmon fillet with the marinade and let it sit for about 15 minutes.
- Place the salmon directly on the grill and smoke for 2-3 hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Garnish with fresh dill, if desired, and serve with lemon wedges.
4. Traeger Grilled Vegetables
Smoked or grilled vegetables can be the perfect side dish to any meal. The Traeger adds a layer of flavor to simple veggies, making them the star of the plate.
Ingredients:
- 2 zucchinis, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, cut into strips
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your Traeger to 375°F.
- Toss all the vegetables in olive oil and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the vegetables evenly on the grill grate and cook for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through until tender and slightly charred.
- Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
5. Traeger Smoked Pulled Pork
Pulled pork is a BBQ classic, and the Traeger’s low-and-slow method ensures juicy, flavorful meat that pulls apart effortlessly.
Ingredients:
- 6-8 lb pork shoulder (pork butt)
- 1/4 cup mustard (as a binder)
- 1/2 cup Traeger pork rub or your favorite seasoning
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar (for spritzing)
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your Traeger to 225°F.
- Rub the pork shoulder with mustard and generously coat it with the pork rub.
- Place the pork shoulder on the grill, fat side up, and smoke for 8-10 hours, spritzing with apple cider vinegar every couple of hours.
- Once the internal temperature reaches around 165°F, wrap the pork in foil and continue cooking until it reaches an internal temperature of 203°F.
- Let the pork rest for about 30 minutes before shredding it with two forks. Mix with barbecue sauce if desired, and serve on buns or as a main dish.
6. Traeger Smoked Mac and Cheese
Take comfort food to the next level with this smoked mac and cheese. The rich, creamy cheese sauce with a hint of smokiness makes this dish unforgettable.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese, cubed
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the Traeger to 350°F.
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, followed by the cream cheese, cheddar, and mozzarella. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni, season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and place it on the Traeger for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden.
- Serve as a side dish or main course and enjoy the smoky goodness.
Why Cook with a Traeger Grill?
The Traeger grill is beloved by BBQ enthusiasts for its ease of use, consistency, and the rich wood-fired flavor it imparts to food. Whether you’re cooking low and slow or grilling at high heat, the Traeger offers precise temperature control and a wide range of cooking methods, including smoking, roasting, grilling, and even baking.
From succulent smoked brisket to perfectly grilled vegetables, these Traeger recipes will help you make the most of your grill, allowing you to create delicious, flavorful meals for any occasion.