Introduction
A Traeger grill is the perfect tool for creating bold, wood-fired flavors. If you’ve ever wondered, what is good to cook on a Traeger, the answer is almost anything! From juicy smoked meats to perfectly grilled vegetables and even desserts, Traeger grills offer endless culinary possibilities. This guide explores the best dishes you can create, making your next grilling session a flavorful success.
What makes Traeger grills unique is their ability to maintain precise temperatures, ensuring consistent results. Paired with a variety of wood pellet flavors, these grills can enhance the taste of meats, vegetables, and even desserts in ways traditional grills cannot.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best dishes to cook on a Traeger, from classic smoked meats to creative plant-based options and decadent desserts. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking to try something new, this list will inspire you to fire up your Traeger and get cooking.
Traeger grills are the perfect tool for creating bold, wood-fired flavors. Learn more about Traeger grills and their features
Best Meats to Cook on a Traeger
What is good to cook on a Traeger? When it comes to meats, classics like smoked chicken thighs, brisket, and cedar-plank salmon are all excellent options. Each dish is enhanced by the Traeger’s wood-fired flavor.
To achieve the perfect brisket or smoked chicken, follow this detailed guide to smoking temperatures for different meats.«
Beef
Traeger grills shine when it comes to beef, offering the perfect blend of smoke and heat.
- Smoked Brisket: Slowly smoked for hours, brisket becomes tender and flavorful with a rich, smoky crust. Use hickory or oak pellets for the best results.
- Grilled Steaks: Ribeye and New York strip steaks cook beautifully at high heat, resulting in a crispy sear and juicy interior.
- Beef Ribs: These become fall-off-the-bone tender when cooked low and slow, absorbing the smoky flavors deeply.
Poultry
The versatility of Traeger grills makes poultry a standout option.
- Smoked Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful, chicken thighs are easy to cook and pair well with sweet or spicy rubs.
- Whole Smoked Chicken: Cooking a whole chicken on a Traeger results in crispy skin and moist meat. Pair with apple or cherry wood for subtle sweetness.
- Turkey Breast: Perfect for holidays or meal prep, turkey breast stays tender and absorbs smoky flavors like pecan or hickory.
Fish and Seafood
Seafood takes on a whole new dimension of flavor on a Traeger.
- Cedar-Plank Salmon: This classic recipe blends the smoky aroma of cedar with the rich taste of salmon.
- Grilled Shrimp: Lightly seasoned and grilled at high heat, shrimp cook quickly and retain a smoky char.
- Smoked Trout: Ideal for those who enjoy delicate, flaky fish with a hint of smoke.
Lamb and Game Meats
For adventurous eaters, Traeger grills are excellent for game meats and lamb.
- Lamb Chops: The bold flavor of lamb pairs beautifully with oak or mesquite pellets.
- Venison: Smoking venison tenderloin enhances its natural earthiness without overpowering it.
- Wild Game Sausages: Perfect for hunting season, these sausages cook evenly and retain their juiciness on a Traeger.
Vegetables and Plant-Based Dishes
For those curious about what is good to cook on a Traeger, grilled vegetables, smoked tofu, and wood-fired pizza are fantastic plant-based choices that deliver bold flavors.
Looking for more inspiration? Check out these healthy grilling recipes for delicious plant-based ideas.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables develop a smoky char that enhances their natural sweetness.
- Zucchini and Squash: Slice into strips, season with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and grill at 400°F for tender, smoky goodness.
- Bell Peppers and Mushrooms: Grill whole or sliced for a burst of umami flavor—perfect as a side dish or topping for sandwiches.
- Asparagus: Toss with olive oil and garlic, then grill until slightly charred for a simple yet elegant side.
Tip: Use cherry or apple wood pellets to complement the subtle flavors of vegetables.
Plant-Based Proteins
Traeger grills bring bold flavors to vegetarian and vegan proteins.
- Smoked Tofu: Marinate tofu in soy sauce, maple syrup, and spices, then smoke at 225°F for 1 hour. The result is a protein-packed dish with a smoky crust.
- Veggie Burgers: Grill plant-based patties like Beyond Meat or homemade black bean burgers for a satisfying, smoky twist.
- BBQ Jackfruit: Smoked jackfruit mimics pulled pork in texture and flavor. Add your favorite BBQ sauce for a vegan-friendly option.
Wood-Fired Pizza
Turn your Traeger into a pizza oven and enjoy crispy, wood-fired pies.
- Ingredients: Pizza dough, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and your favorite toppings.
- Instructions: Preheat your Traeger to 500°F with a pizza stone. Add toppings to the dough and grill for 10–12 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese bubbles.
Tip: Experiment with toppings like roasted vegetables or plant-based sausages for a unique pizza experience.
Savory Side Dishes
Round out your meal with wood-fired side dishes.
- Smoked Mac and Cheese: Prepare mac and cheese in a cast-iron skillet and smoke at 225°F for 30–45 minutes.
- Baked Beans: Add a smoky twist to canned or homemade baked beans by simmering them on the grill.
- Cornbread: Bake cornbread in a cast-iron skillet for a lightly charred, crispy crust.
Desserts to Cook on a Traeger
Still wondering what is good to cook on a Traeger? Don’t overlook desserts! Smoked apple crisp and grilled pineapple are just a few sweet treats you can try.
Smoked Apple Crisp
This classic dessert gets a flavorful twist with a hint of smoke.
- Ingredients: Apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, oats, flour, and butter.
- Instructions: Slice apples and toss them with brown sugar and cinnamon. Place them in a cast-iron skillet and top with an oat and butter mixture. Smoke at 350°F for 30–40 minutes until the topping is golden and crisp.
Tip: Use pecan or apple wood pellets to complement the natural sweetness of the apples.
Grilled Peaches and Pineapple
Fruits caramelize beautifully on the grill, creating a simple yet elegant dessert.
- Peaches: Halve and pit the peaches, brush with honey or maple syrup, and grill at 400°F for 5–7 minutes per side.
- Pineapple: Slice into rings or spears, sprinkle with brown sugar, and grill until charred edges form.
Tip: Serve with vanilla ice cream for a refreshing and indulgent treat.
Smoked Cheesecake
Cheesecake on a grill? Absolutely! The result is creamy with a hint of smokiness.
- Ingredients: Cream cheese, sugar, eggs, graham cracker crust, and vanilla extract.
- Instructions: Prepare your cheesecake batter and pour it into a springform pan. Preheat the Traeger to 325°F and place the pan on the grill. Bake for 50–60 minutes until the center is set. Let it cool completely before serving.
Tip: Use cherry wood pellets for a subtle fruity flavor that complements the creamy texture.
S’mores Skillet
A fun, shareable dessert that’s perfect for outdoor gatherings.
- Ingredients: Graham crackers, chocolate bars, and marshmallows.
- Instructions: Layer graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows in a cast-iron skillet. Grill at 350°F for 10 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden and gooey. Serve immediately with spoons.
Tip: Add peanut butter or caramel sauce for an extra indulgent twist.
Tips for Choosing the Right Wood Pellets
Wood pellets are the secret ingredient that gives Traeger dishes their distinctive flavor. Choosing the right type of pellet for your recipe can elevate your cooking and bring out the best in your ingredients. Here are some tips for pairing wood pellets with different foods.
Fruitwoods
Fruitwood pellets, such as apple, cherry, and peach, impart a subtle sweetness that complements lighter dishes.
- Best For: Poultry, pork, fish, and desserts.
- Example: Use apple pellets for smoked chicken thighs or cherry pellets for grilled peaches.
Tip: Fruitwoods are also great for baking, as they add a mild, aromatic flavor to cakes and cobblers.
Bold Woods
Bold-flavored woods like hickory and mesquite add a rich, smoky taste that’s perfect for hearty dishes.
- Best For: Beef, brisket, lamb, and game meats.
- Example: Try hickory pellets for smoked brisket or mesquite pellets for lamb chops.
Tip: Use bold woods sparingly with lighter foods, as their strong flavor can overpower delicate ingredients.
Mild Woods
Mild woods like alder and maple provide a balanced, subtle smoke flavor that works well with a wide range of dishes.
- Best For: Fish, vegetables, and poultry.
- Example: Alder is ideal for cedar-plank salmon, while maple enhances grilled squash.
Tip: Combine mild woods with fruitwoods for a unique flavor profile that’s both sweet and smoky.
Experimenting with Blends
Traeger offers pellet blends that combine different wood types to create versatile flavor profiles.
- Example: A blend of hickory and cherry can balance bold smokiness with a touch of sweetness, making it perfect for ribs or pork loin.
- Custom Tip: Mix your own pellets for truly unique flavors tailored to specific recipes.
Tip: Always use high-quality pellets made for Traeger grills to ensure consistent heat and clean smoke.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
If you’re new to Traeger grilling or looking to expand your skills, here are answers to some common questions about what’s good to cook on a Traeger.
Can I cook bread on a Traeger?
Yes, Traeger grills are excellent for baking bread. The consistent temperature control and smoky flavor make them ideal for rustic loaves, cornbread, and even flatbreads. Use a baking stone or cast-iron skillet for the best results. Preheat the grill to 350°F–375°F, depending on the recipe, and bake until golden brown.
What is the best temperature for smoking meats?
The best temperature for smoking meats is typically 225°F, as this allows the meat to cook low and slow, ensuring tenderness and maximum smoky flavor. For poultry or larger cuts like brisket, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F–204°F, depending on the cut.
How do I clean my Traeger after cooking?
- Step 1: Allow the grill to cool completely.
- Step 2: Brush the grates to remove food residue.
- Step 3: Empty the grease trap and clean the drip pan.
- Step 4: Vacuum out ash from the firepot with a shop vacuum.
Regular cleaning ensures your Traeger operates efficiently and maintains its flavor consistency.
Can I use a Traeger for everyday cooking?
Absolutely! Traeger grills are versatile enough for daily use. From quick-grilled chicken breasts to roasted vegetables, the precise temperature control makes it easy to prepare meals with minimal effort. You can even use it to bake casseroles or make family-friendly pizzas.
Are Traegers good for plant-based diets?
Yes, Traegers are fantastic for plant-based diets. Grilled vegetables, smoked tofu, veggie burgers, and even jackfruit BBQ are some of the many options. The wood-fired flavor adds depth to plant-based proteins and enhances the natural sweetness of vegetables.
Conclusion
From smoked meats to roasted vegetables and desserts, the possibilities are endless when exploring what is good to cook on a Traeger. With these ideas, you’re sure to discover new favorites.
Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a backyard barbecue, your Traeger grill ensures consistent results with minimal effort. By experimenting with recipes and techniques, you can take full advantage of this wood-fired marvel to impress family and friends.
So, fire up your Traeger and explore the incredible variety of dishes you can create. With the tips and ideas in this guide, you’re sure to discover new favorites to enjoy all year long.