Traeger grills have taken the culinary world by storm, combining traditional grilling methods with modern smoking technology to create mouthwatering dishes that are bursting with flavor. The journey of Traeger grills dates back to the late 1980s and has evolved into a beloved choice among backyard chefs and barbecue enthusiasts alike.
If you’re new to Traeger grilling or are an avid fan looking to expand your recipe repertoire, this section will delve into the history of Traeger grills, as well as the many benefits of using these innovative cooking devices.
History of Traeger Grills
The story of Traeger grills began in 1985 when Joe Traeger invented the first wood pellet grill in Mount Angel, Oregon. Joe wanted to create a grill that offered an unparalleled flavor experience while making it easy for anyone to achieve perfect results every time. He combined an electric heat source with wooden pellets, igniting a new era of outdoor cooking that would transform the way people prepare their meals.
Over the years, Traeger grills have undergone various enhancements, all while maintaining the essence of their original design. The unique concept allowed enthusiasts to not only grill but also smoke, bake, braise, and barbecue, all on the same appliance. Today, Traeger is a leading brand in the grilling market, with a passionate community of users who swear by the unbeatable taste and versatility of their grills.
Realizing the impact that these grills can have, many home cooks have shared their experiences, creating a plethora of recipes that showcase the capabilities of Traeger grills. This sharing experience has helped cultivate a vibrant community, inspiring both new and seasoned users to explore innovative ways to incorporate Traeger grilling into their culinary adventures.
Benefits of Using Traeger Grills
Utilizing a Traeger grill offers numerous advantages that make it a preferred choice for cooking enthusiasts. Here are some compelling benefits:
- Versatility: Traeger grills allow for a variety of cooking methods, including smoking, grilling, baking, and roasting. This versatility means that you can create a wide range of dishes, from breakfast to dessert, all on one appliance.
- Convenience: The use of wood pellets as fuel provides a consistent heat source and is simple to use. The automatic auger allows for precise cooking without the need for constant monitoring, giving you more time to enjoy with family and friends.
- Flavor: Wood pellets infuse a unique smoky flavor into the food that cannot be replicated with gas or charcoal grilling. Each type of wood can impart different flavors, from hickory to mesquite, allowing for a tailored taste experience.
- Temperature Control: Traeger grills come equipped with a digital temperature control system, allowing for precise temperature settings. This ensures your food is cooked evenly, resulting in perfectly smoked meats and baked goods.
- User-Friendly Design: For beginners, Traeger grills are easy to operate. Their straightforward assembly and operation make it simple for anyone to become a pro grill master in no time.
- Healthier Cooking Option: Smoking with wood pellets often requires less added fat compared to traditional grilling methods. This allows for healthier meals without sacrificing flavor.
- Community and Recipes: Buying a Traeger grill opens the door to a community of like-minded cooking enthusiasts. Traeger’s website and various social media platforms are filled with user-generated recipes and tips, providing endless inspiration.
With all these benefits in mind, it’s no wonder that Traeger grilling has gained a cult-like following. From delicious smoked meats to decadent desserts, the versatility of Traeger recipes allows for creativity in the kitchen while embracing the joy of grilling.
In conclusion, whether you’re firing up the grill for a family gathering or looking to impress friends with new culinary challenges, Traeger grills offer an exceptional cooking experience. The blend of history and innovative design establishes a solid reputation, empowering cooks at every level to explore new flavors and techniques.
So prepare your taste buds for delightful Traeger recipes that are sure to become the highlights of your meals, bringing everyone together to enjoy the scrumptious results. Whether it’s breakfast, appetizers, main dishes, side dishes, or desserts, the options are nearly limitless. Welcome to the tasty world of Traeger grilling!
Breakfast Traeger Recipes
When it comes to breakfast, Traeger grills can elevate your morning routine from mundane to magical. The ability to smoke and infuse flavors into classic breakfast staples makes waking up early a delight rather than a chore. In this section, we’ll explore two delicious breakfast recipes that will impress your family and guests while making your mornings easier.
Smoked Breakfast Casserole
A smoked breakfast casserole is the ultimate dish for lazy weekends or special gatherings. It’s not just easy to prepare, but the flavor profiles enhanced by the smoke from the Traeger grill are unbeatable. This dish is excellent for feeding a crowd without the fuss of making individual plates. Here’s how to whip up this fantastic recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, crumbled
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 3 cups cubed bread (stale bread works well)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your choice)
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or both)
- 1 cup chopped onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: hot sauce for a kick
Instructions:
- Preheat the Grill: Start by preheating your Traeger to 350°F. This temperature provides the perfect environment for baking your casserole.
- Cook the Sausage: On the stove, cook the crumbled sausage until browned. Drain any excess fat, then let it cool for a few minutes.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Add in the cooked sausage, cubed bread, diced bell peppers, onions, and cheese. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper!
- Prepare the Casserole Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the mixture into it. Use a spatula to evenly spread the ingredients.
- Smoke It: Place the casserole dish on the grill. Close the lid and let the casserole smoke for about 45 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the casserole from the grill and let it rest for a few moments before slicing. Serve with hot sauce on the side for those who like extra heat.
This breakfast casserole can easily become a family favorite. One morning, I remember preparing it for a bunch of friends who had spent the night after game night. They were blown away by the smoky flavor, and it quickly became a tradition for our gatherings.
Bacon and Egg Breakfast Burgers
If you’re in the mood for something a bit more indulgent, look no further than bacon and egg breakfast burgers. These mouthwatering creations take a classic breakfast and transform it into a savory delight that can be enjoyed any time of the day. Ingredients Needed:
- 1 pound ground beef (or sausage if you prefer)
- 4 slices of bacon
- 4 large eggs
- 4 hamburger buns
- Cheese slices (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh greens (lettuce, spinach, or arugula)
- Tomato slices
- Your choice of condiments (ketchup, mayo, or hot sauce)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Grill: Start by preheating your Traeger to 400°F.
- Shape the Patties: In a bowl, season the ground beef with salt and pepper and form it into four equally sized burger patties.
- Cook the Bacon: On the grill, arrange the bacon strips on a grill tray or directly on the grill grates and cook until crispy. Once done, remove and drain excess grease.
- Grill the Burgers: Place the burger patties on the grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side for medium doneness. If you like cheese, add a slice on top just before they are finished, allowing it to melt.
- Fry the Eggs: With a cast-iron skillet on the grill, crack in the eggs and fry them to your desired doneness—sunny-side-up is recommended for that classic breakfast feel.
- Assemble the Burgers: Toast the buns briefly on the grill, then layer the bottom bun with fresh greens, followed by a burger patty, crispy bacon, a fried egg, tomato slices, and your chosen condiments. Cap off with the top bun.
These breakfast burgers add excitement to the morning! I recall one crisp Saturday morning, surprising my family with these burgers. They were thoroughly impressed and declared it the “best breakfast ever!” It’s this kind of joy that makes cooking with a Traeger so rewarding.
In summary, breakfast doesn’t have to be bland or routine. With these incredible Traeger recipes, you can surprise yourself and your guests with flavorful, smoked delights that showcase the versatility of your grill. So fire up your Traeger and welcome the day with these inspired breakfast dishes that will surely become part of your regular rotation!
Appetizer Traeger Recipes
As the aroma of smoked meats and delicious dishes wafts through the air, it makes perfect sense to accompany your main courses with some delightful appetizers. Traeger grills serve as an exceptional tool for creating flavorful starters that will have your guests asking for seconds. In this segment, we’ll explore two fantastic recipes that are sure to elevate your appetizer game: Smoked Queso Dip and Jalapeno Poppers.
Smoked Queso Dip
Everyone loves a good queso dip, and when you smoke it, the flavor reaches a whole new level. This Smoked Queso Dip is perfect for gatherings or family movie nights, providing a creamy, savory delight that pairs beautifully with tortilla chips.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Ro-Tel)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked sausage (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Tortilla chips for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat the Grill: Start by preheating your Traeger grill to 250°F.
- Combine Ingredients: In a disposable aluminum pan, add the Velveeta cheese, diced tomatoes (with all the juices), shredded cheddar cheese, cooked sausage (if using), olive oil, and taco seasoning. Stir to combine everything well.
- Smoke It: Place the pan directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and smoke for about 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and everything is bubbly.
- Serve: Once done, remove the pan from the grill and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired, and serve with tortilla chips.
This queso dip has become a staple at my own gatherings. Just recently, I invited friends over to watch the big game. As soon as the queso hit the table, it was gone in minutes! The smoky richness combined with the creamy cheese created a dip that was not only delicious but also memorable.
Jalapeno Poppers
Jalapeno Poppers are another crowd-pleaser that perfectly marry spice with creaminess, and when made on the Traeger, they become irresistibly smoky and delicious. These bite-sized delights are perfect as an appetizer for any occasion, from barbecues to holiday parties.
Ingredients:
- 12 fresh jalapenos
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheese (like a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 12 slices of bacon, halved
- Toothpicks (for securing the bacon)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your Traeger to 225°F.
- Prep the Jalapenos: Slice each jalapeno in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes (wear gloves to avoid irritation).
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika until well combined.
- Stuff the Jalapenos: Generously fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture.
- Wrap with Bacon: Take a half-slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed jalapeno half, securing it with a toothpick.
- Smoke the Poppers: Place the prepared jalapeno poppers on the grill grates and smoke for about 1 hour, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbly.
- Serve: Allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. These poppers can also be paired with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
I recall a sunny afternoon where my family gathered outside for some grill time. I tried these Jalapeno Poppers for the first time, and they quickly became the highlight of our day! The smoky flavor of the bacon coupled with the softness of the cream cheese filling created an explosion of taste that kept everyone returning for more.
In summary, appetizers like Smoked Queso Dip and Jalapeno Poppers not only set the stage for your meal but also bring special moments to life. With the versatility of a Traeger grill, you can craft party-worthy appetizers that fuse smoky flavors with creamy goodness, ensuring your gatherings are unforgettable. So fire up your Traeger and get ready to impress your friends and family with these delectable bites. Happy grilling!
Main Dish Traeger Recipes
Talking about appetizers has certainly set the stage for an unforgettable meal, but what’s a gathering without a hearty main dish? Traeger grills shine when it comes to preparing drool-worthy main courses that can steal the show.
In this section, we’ll dive into two mouthwatering recipes that highlight the grilling prowess of Traeger: Smoked Pulled Pork and Grilled BBQ Chicken. These recipes are not just delicious, they are also remarkably easy to prepare, making them perfect for any occasion.
Smoked Pulled Pork
When it comes to classic barbecue, few dishes can rival the succulent goodness of smoked pulled pork. With its tender meat and bold flavors, this dish can be the centerpiece of any feast, and the use of your Traeger grill takes it to that next level. Ingredients Needed:
- 4-6 pounds pork butt (shoulder)
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup barbecue rub (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup apple juice
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- Hamburger buns for serving
- Pickles and coleslaw for topping (optional)
Instructions:
- Prep the Pork: Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork butt. Then, coat it with yellow mustard and apple cider vinegar, which acts as a binder for the barbecue rub.
- Apply the Rub: Generously apply the barbecue rub all over the pork, ensuring it is well coated. Let it sit for at least an hour or, if possible, overnight in the refrigerator for the flavors to penetrate.
- Preheat the Grill: Set your Traeger to 225°F and let it preheat, filling it with your choice of wood pellets (hickory and applewood work wonderfully for pulled pork).
- Smoke the Pork: Place the pork butt directly on the grill grates. Smoke it for about 8-10 hours, basting with apple juice every couple of hours, until it reaches an internal temperature of 195-205°F.
- Shred and Serve: Once cooked, remove the pork from the grill and let it rest for about 30 minutes. Use two forks to shred the meat, mixing in your favorite barbecue sauce.
- Enjoy: Serve on hamburger buns topped with pickles and coleslaw, if desired.
I vividly remember one Fourth of July celebration when I prepared this smoked pulled pork for family and friends. The aroma that filled the backyard was simply irresistible, and as I pulled the meat apart, everyone gathered around, eagerly waiting for a taste. The combination of smoky, tangy, and sweet flavors left a lasting impression and earned me compliments for weeks!
Grilled BBQ Chicken
Another crowd favorite that’s not to be missed is Grilled BBQ Chicken. This dish is easy to make and perfect for summer gatherings, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or your preferred cuts)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley or cilantro, optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create a marinade. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, ensuring an even coating.
- Marinate: Place the chicken in a resealable bag or shallow dish and allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight for more intense flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your Traeger to 375°F, ensuring that it’s nice and hot for grilling.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the grill grates, skin side down. Grill for about 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway through. During the last 10 minutes of cooking, brush on your barbecue sauce, allowing it to caramelize and create a sticky, flavorful glaze.
- Check for Doneness: The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- Serve: Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
This grilled BBQ chicken recipe was my go-to last summer for a family reunion. The combination of smoky flavor with the sweetness of the barbecue sauce made it a hit with the kids and adults alike. Seeing everyone enjoy the meal while sharing laughs and stories created a fantastic atmosphere that we all cherished.
In conclusion, main dishes like Smoked Pulled Pork and Grilled BBQ Chicken are not only perfect for making any gathering complete, but they also provide endless opportunities for flavor exploration. Cooking on a Traeger grill means you can prepare these hearty dishes with minimal effort while impressing your guests with unforgettable taste. So fire up that grill, toss on some meat, and prepare yourself for scrumptious moments that are sure to leave everyone satisfied! Happy grilling!
Side Dish Traeger Recipes
As delicious as the main dishes are, the sides are what truly round out a meal and can elevate the entire dining experience. When using a Traeger grill, the options for side dishes become even more exciting as you incorporate smoky flavors and unique twists. In this section, we’ll dive into two delectable side dishes that perfectly complement any meal: Smoked Mac and Cheese and Grilled Corn on the Cob. Both recipes are simple to prepare and sure to impress your guests.
Smoked Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a beloved classic that takes on a whole new dimension when smoked. This Smoked Mac and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, making it an irresistible side dish for any gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk (whole milk is preferred)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded gouda cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- Fresh chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil water and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a separate large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk, and cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Cheeses and Seasonings: Remove the saucepan from heat and add the cheddar, gouda, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until silky smooth. Mix in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Combine and Transfer: Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a disposable aluminum pan.
- Smoke the Mac and Cheese: Preheat your Traeger to 225°F. Place the aluminum pan on the grill and let it smoke for about 45 minutes. If you want a crispy topping, you can sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top during the last 10 minutes of smoking.
- Serve: Once done, remove the pan from the grill and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh chives before serving.
One evening, I decided to surprise my family with this Smoked Mac and Cheese alongside the grilled chicken I prepared. The smoky flavor combined with the creamy cheese was a big hit! Everyone practically fought over the last scoop. The combination of textures made it an instant favorite, and now it’s a must-have for our family gatherings.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled Corn on the Cob is a staple side dish that highlights the sweetness of fresh corn and pairs beautifully with any entrée. The method of grilling it on the Traeger allows for a subtle smokiness that enhances its natural flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of fresh corn
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- Salt, pepper, and paprika to taste
- Optional toppings: grated Parmesan cheese, chopped cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions:
- Prep the Corn: Peel back the husks of the corn but do not remove them completely. Remove the silk and then fold the husks back over the corn.
- Soak the Corn: Soak the corn in a large bowl of water for about 30 minutes. This will help keep the corn moist while grilling.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your Traeger grill to 400°F.
- Grill the Corn: Place the soaked corn directly on the grill grates and close the lid. Grill for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally until the kernels are tender and lightly charred.
- Season and Serve: Once grilled, carefully peel back the husks (they will be hot). Spread softened butter over the corn and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. For added flavor, you can sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.
I recall hosting a summer cookout, and grilling corn on the cob was a must-do for me! As I pulled the corn off the grill, the beautiful char marks teased everyone, and once they took a bite, the fresh sweetness paired with butter and seasoning left them raving about it. It’s a simple, yet impactful dish that complements grilled meals exceptionally well.
In conclusion, side dishes like Smoked Mac and Cheese and Grilled Corn on the Cob are not only delicious but also enhance the experience of any meal cooked on a Traeger grill. These recipes will add layers of flavor and texture that are sure to be cherished by family and friends. So, next time you fire up your Traeger, don’t forget to give these delightful sides a try and watch your gathering become an even bigger hit! Happy grilling!
Dessert Traeger Recipes
After indulging in delectable main courses and satisfying side dishes, it’s time to satisfy that sweet tooth! When it comes to desserts, Traeger grills can create mouthwatering dishes that are both unique and unforgettable. In this section, we will explore two scrumptious dessert recipes: Grilled Peaches with Mascarpone and Smoked Chocolate Brownies. Both of these treats have become family favorites and are sure to impress your guests.
Grilled Peaches with Mascarpone
Grilled peaches are the perfect summer dessert. The grilling not only enhances their sweetness but also adds a delightful smokiness that elevates the flavor. When topped with creamy mascarpone cheese, this dessert becomes a luxurious treat that’s incredibly easy to prepare!
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey (more for drizzling)
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
- Balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions:
- Prep the Peaches: Start by brushing the cut sides of the peach halves with olive oil. This helps prevent sticking to the grill and adds a lovely flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your Traeger to 400°F.
- Grill the Peaches: Place the peaches cut side down on the grill grates. Grill for about 4-5 minutes until they start to caramelize and develop those beautiful grill marks.
- Make the Mascarpone Mixture: While the peaches are grilling, mix the mascarpone cheese, honey, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth.
- Assemble the Dish: Once the peaches are grilled, remove them from the grill and let them cool for a minute. Place the peaches cut side up on a serving platter and dollop generous spoonfuls of the mascarpone mixture on top.
- Drizzle and Garnish: Drizzle with additional honey and balsamic glaze for a burst of flavor, and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Last summer, I decided to treat my friends to a barbecue dinner, and I made these grilled peaches as a special dessert. The reaction was priceless! Everyone loved how sweet and juicy they were, complemented perfectly by the rich mascarpone. It was a refreshing end to a hearty meal, and I found myself being asked for the recipe more than once.
Smoked Chocolate Brownies
If you’re a chocolate lover, you can’t miss out on these Smoked Chocolate Brownies. They are rich, fudgy, and decadent, with a unique twist that the Traeger grill provides. The gentle smoke adds depth to the chocolate, making these brownies a delightful surprise.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Grill: Start by preheating your Traeger to 350°F.
- Melt the Butter: In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from the heat and stir in the sugar, mixing well.
- Whisk in the Eggs and Vanilla: After allowing the mixture to cool slightly, whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract until combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. If you’re feeling indulgent, fold in chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey treat.
- Pour and Smoke: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the brownie batter into it. Place the baking dish directly on the grill grates and close the lid. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the brownies from the grill and let them cool completely before cutting into squares. Serve on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.
I remember the first time I made these smoked brownies for a family get-together. The rich aroma of chocolate wafting through the yard had everyone asking what was baking! When they finally got a taste, the brownies disappeared in a flash. The smoky undertone added a complexity that transformed regular chocolate brownies into something extraordinary.
In conclusion, desserts like Grilled Peaches with Mascarpone and Smoked Chocolate Brownies highlight the versatility of a Traeger grill in the sweetest way possible. These recipes are not only easy to prepare but also create impressive and delicious treats that will be the talk of your gatherings. So, next time you fire up the grill, don’t forget to save some time for dessert – your guests will thank you! Happy grilling and happy indulging!