44 Must-Try Smoker Recipes to Elevate Your Cooking with Irresistible Smoky Flavors
Smoking food takes your cooking to a whole new level, adding a depth of flavor that’s both rich and irresistible. Whether you’re looking to perfect a classic brisket, experiment with juicy chicken thighs, or even try your hand at smoked veggies, there’s a whole world of smoky goodness to explore. Smoking isn’t just about adding flavor; it’s about enhancing the natural taste of your ingredients and creating something truly special. Dive into these smoker recipes to discover how you can transform ordinary meals into extraordinary dishes with that perfect touch of smoke. From savory main courses to unique sides and even desserts, we’ve got plenty of ideas to make your next smoking session a delicious success.
1. Cranberry-Glazed Smoked Pork Chops
The smoked pork chops recipe delivers a rich, smoky flavor. Brine (water, salt, sugar, and optional spices) is used to tenderize and enhance the pork chops before smoking. After brining, the chops are seasoned with a dry rub of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
The chops are smoked at 225°F and cooked for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F resulting in flavorful and juicy chops with a well-developed smoky taste.
2. Smoked Turkey Legs
The smoked turkey legs recipe emphasizes a balanced seasoning blend with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika, complemented by liquid smoke to enhance the overall depth of flavor. Smoking at a low temperature (225°F) keeps the turkey legs tender and juicy while absorbing a rich, smoky taste. The cooking time of 2.5 to 3 hours allows for thorough flavor penetration and proper texture.
3. Smoked Meatloaf
The Smoked Meatloaf recipe offers a delicious twist on the classic dish, infusing it with rich smoky flavors. The meatloaf is prepared with a mix of ground beef, seasonings, and a flavorful glaze, then smoked to perfection. The smoking process adds a unique depth of flavor, making this meatloaf a standout dish for any meal.
4. Easy Korean BBQ Sauce Recipe (Gochujang Barbecue Marinade)
This Korean BBQ Sauce recipe is perfect for enhancing grilled meats or vegetables, offering a rich depth of flavor with ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic. It has a tangy gochujang marinade that makes this sauce versatile, and easy to prepare. It adds an authentic Korean twist to your BBQ dishes.
5. Smoked Pizza
The Smoked Pizza recipe incorporates smoky flavors into the crust and toppings, bringing a unique twist to the traditional way of making pizza. The process involves preparing your favorite pizza dough, adding desired toppings, and then smoking the pizza on a grill or smoker at a low temperature. The result is a pizza with a crisp crust and a deep, smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste.
6. Applewood Smoked Vegan Breakfast Sausage Recipe
The Vegan Breakfast Sausages recipe offers a flavorful and hearty plant-based alternative to traditional sausages. Made with ingredients like seitan, spices, and herbs, these sausages are packed with savory flavors and have a satisfying texture. They’re perfect for pairing with breakfast dishes or enjoying on their own. You can customize the seasoning to your taste preferences, making it a delicious addition to any vegan breakfast menu.
7. Smoked Salmon Recipe
The smoked salmon recipe infuses the fish with a rich, smoky flavor while maintaining its delicate texture. Salmon is brined in a mixture of water, salt, brown sugar, and optional spices for a few hours to enhance moisture and flavor.
After brining, the salmon is dried to form a pellicle, a tacky surface that helps the smoke adhere better. It is then smoked at a low temperature of around 175°F for 1.5 to 2 hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F resulting in a flavorful, moist, and perfectly smoked salmon.
8. Traeger Smoked Salmon
This Traeger smoked salmon recipe involves curing a 2.5-pound skin-on salmon fillet with a dry brine made from brown sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, and minced rosemary. The brining process, followed by overnight drying, helps create a rich, smoky flavor.
The salmon is then smoked on a pellet grill at 225°F for about 90 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.
9. Cedar Plank Salmon
The process starts by soaking a cedar plank in water for at least 1-2 hours to prevent it from burning. The salmon is then seasoned with a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper, and placed on the soaked cedar plank.
The plank with the salmon is then grilled over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. The cedar plank imparts a distinctive smoky aroma and flavor, enhancing the salmon’s natural taste while keeping it moist and tender.
10. Smoked Pulled Pork
This smoked pulled pork recipe is a tender dish made by seasoning pork shoulder with a homemade dry rub, smoking it low and slow for several hours until it reaches an internal temperature of around 200°F, and then shredding it into juicy, smoky pieces.
The pork is perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or served as a main dish. The key to its deep flavor is the slow smoking process, which allows the spices and smoke to penetrate the meat, making it incredibly tasty and tender.
11. Jalapeno Popper Smoked Chicken Pasta
This jalapeño popper smoked chicken pasta combines tender smoked chicken with creamy pasta, with flavors of spicy jalapeños, crispy bacon, and rich cheese. The dish offers a perfect balance of smokiness, heat, and creaminess, making it a satisfying and flavorful meal. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a twist on classic comfort food, blending the familiar taste of jalapeño poppers with hearty pasta and chicken.
12. Sriracha Whiskey Smoked Pork Belly Burnt Ends
Tender pork belly pieces are smoked to perfection and coated in a bold, sweet, and spicy glaze made from sriracha and whiskey. The dish combines rich, smoky flavors with a kick of heat, making it an irresistible treat for barbecue lovers.
Perfect as an appetizer or a main dish, these burnt ends are caramelized on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth tender on the inside, offering a deliciously unique twist on classic barbecue fare.
13. Smoked Cheesy Bread
Dough is mixed with shredded cheese, garlic powder, and herbs into the mix. Once the dough is shaped into a loaf, it is placed on a smoker rack. The bread is smoked at 225°F for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it reaches a golden brown color and a crispy texture. The smoking process infuses the bread with a smoky aroma, while the cheese melts and combines with the dough for a flavorful, savory treat.
14. Smoked Ribs
The smoked ribs recipe creates wonderfully tender and flavorful ribs. A dry rub made of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, is prepared and generously applied to the ribs. The ribs are then smoked at 225°F for about 4 to 5 hours.
During smoking, the ribs are often wrapped in foil halfway through to ensure they stay moist and tender. The result is tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs with a rich smoky flavor, and a sweet and savory crust from the rub.
15. Chicago Style Smoked Rib Tips
The Chicago-style smoked rib tips recipe creates tender rib tips with a distinctive taste. The rib tips are first seasoned with a mix of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. They are then smoked at 250°F for about 3 hours, until they are tender and have absorbed a smoky flavor.
These rib tips are then coated with a tangy barbecue sauce and grilled briefly to caramelize the sauce. This delivers rib tips of smoky depth, savory spice, and a deliciously sticky glaze.
16. Smoked Beef Short Ribs (Pellet Smoker Recipe)
The key to tender pellet smoked beef short ribs is in the seasoning and smoking process, which together create a perfectly balanced taste and texture. The dry rub infuses the meat with a savory blend of spices, while the slow smoking ensures the ribs are tender and juicy.
A final layer of barbecue sauce adds a sweet and tangy caramelized finish. The result is ribs that are rich in flavor, with a great smoky aroma and a satisfying, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
17. Smoked Pernil- Puerto Rican Roast Pork Shoulder
This smoked pernil recipe is a must-try for anyone craving a burst of bold Puerto Rican flavors. The pork shoulder is marinated in a mouthwatering mix of garlic, oregano, and sour orange juice, creating a tangy and aromatic base.
Slow-smoking the pork adds a deep, smoky richness that makes each bite irresistible. With its crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior, this dish is a showstopper for any meal.
Perfect for gatherings or a special dinner, this recipe promises a delightful taste experience that’s both savory and succulent. Dive into this flavorful roast and savor a true taste of Puerto Rican cuisine.
18. Smoked Beef Tongue Pastrami
This smoked beef tongue pastrami is a game-changer for meat lovers looking for a bold, gourmet treat. Infused with a tantalizing blend of spices and slow-smoked to perfection, this dish transforms beef tongue into a juicy, savory pastrami with a rich, smoky flavor.
With its complex seasoning and melt-in-your-mouth texture, this recipe offers an unforgettable culinary experience that’s both unique and delicious.
19. Best Hickory Smoked Whole Bologna Chub
This hickory smoked whole bologna chub recipe is a standout choice for those seeking a smoky, savory treat with a twist. By slow-smoking a whole bologna chub over hickory wood, you achieve a rich, deep flavor that enhances the classic bologna taste with a distinctive smoky edge.
The result is a beautifully caramelized exterior with a juicy, flavorful interior that’s perfect for sandwiches or as a standout party snack. This recipe promises a mouthwatering experience that combines traditional bologna with the irresistible depth of hickory smoke, making it a must-try for any meat enthusiast looking to elevate their game.
20. Twice Smoked Spiral Ham with Cajun Fruit Glaze
This twice-smoked spiral ham with Cajun fruit glaze is an impressive and flavorful dish perfect for special occasions. The ham is smoked to perfection and then glazed with a vibrant Cajun fruit mixture that adds a sweet and spicy kick. The result is a beautifully caramelized ham with layers of rich, smoky flavor and a unique, tangy sweetness from the glaze.
21. Chicken and Smoked Sausage Jambalaya
This chicken and smoked sausage jambalaya is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings a taste of Louisiana to your table. Combining tender chicken and savory smoked sausage with a medley of spices, rice, and vegetables, this jambalaya is a one-pot wonder that delivers rich, smoky, and spicy flavors in every bite. The smoked sausage adds a depth of flavor, while the seasoning and simmering bring all the ingredients together into a satisfying, robust meal.
22. Smoked Chuck Roast
This smoked chuck roast is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to elevate their barbecue game. The chuck roast is slow-cooked in a smoker, which infuses it with a deep, rich smoky flavor while keeping the meat incredibly tender and juicy. The result is a beautifully caramelized exterior with a flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth interior that’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or just enjoying on its own.
23. Spicy Pork Shotgun Shells
These spicy pork shotgun shells are a bold and exciting treat that takes your appetizer game to the next level. Packed with a flavorful blend of spicy pork sausage, cheese, and seasonings, these shotgun shells are wrapped in pasta and smoked to perfection, resulting in a crispy, smoky exterior with a deliciously spicy and cheesy filling that’s both satisfying and addictive.
24. Bacon Wrapped Smoked Chicken Thighs
These bacon-wrapped smoked chicken thighs are a mouthwatering treat that combines smoky flavor with crispy, savory goodness. Each chicken thigh is wrapped in bacon and smoked to perfection, allowing the bacon to crisp up while infusing the chicken with rich, smoky flavors resulting in juicy, tender chicken thigh with a deliciously crispy bacon exterior that’s full of flavor.
25. Mojo Smoked Chicken Thighs
Mojo chicken thighs are a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s sure to delight your taste buds. Marinated in a zesty mojo sauce made from a blend of citrus juices, garlic, and spices, these chicken thighs are grilled to perfection, resulting in a juicy and succulent meal with a tangy, aromatic kick.
The combination of bright, citrusy flavors with savory spices creates a deliciously balanced dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering.
26. Traeger Smoked Turkey Breast
This recipe is perfect for those seeking a juicy turkey with a smoky twist. The turkey breast is seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs, then smoked on a Traeger grill, which imparts a rich, smoky flavor while keeping the meat tender and moist.
The result is a beautifully golden turkey breast with a savory, aromatic taste that’s ideal for special occasions or a delicious everyday meal.
27. Smoke Whole Chicken (at 225)
This smoked whole chicken brings a new level of deliciousness to your meal. It’s seasoned with a tasty mix and smoked slowly, resulting in a crispy, golden skin and juicy, tender meat. The slow smoking adds a rich, smoky taste that makes each bite irresistible.
Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this chicken offers a satisfying twist on traditional roasted poultry, making it a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty, flavorful dish.
28. Smoked Hot Dogs On A Pellet Grill
These smoked hot dogs on a pellet grill take a classic favorite to a new level. The hot dogs are smoked slowly on the pellet grill, which gives them a deep, smoky flavor and a satisfying texture. The result is a juicy, tender hot dog with a hint of smokiness that enhances the overall taste.
Perfect for backyard barbecues or casual meals, these smoked hot dogs offer an easy yet delicious twist on a familiar favorite, making them a great addition to any grilling session.
29. Traeger Scalloped Potatoes
These Traeger scalloped potatoes are a fantastic side dish for any meal. Cooked on a Traeger grill, they’re infused with a subtle smoky flavor that complements the creamy, cheesy layers of potatoes. The slow cooking process ensures the potatoes are tender and perfectly melded with the rich, savory sauce.
With their deliciously crispy top and creamy interior, these scalloped potatoes make a delightful addition to both everyday dinners and special occasions, offering a comforting twist on a classic side.
30. Smoked Chicken Legs
The chicken legs are seasoned with a tasty blend of spices and then smoked to perfection, resulting in a crispy, flavorful exterior and juicy, tender meat. The smoking process adds a rich, smoky depth that elevates the chicken to a new level of deliciousness. Ideal for any cookout or casual meal, these smoked chicken legs deliver satisfying, savory bites that are sure to please everyone at the table.
31. Smoked Meatloaf (Pellet Smoker Recipe)
This smoked meatloaf adds a delicious twist to a classic dish. Infused with smoky goodness, it’s made with a blend of ground beef and pork, mixed with spices and vegetables. The smoking process enhances the meatloaf with a deep, rich flavor while keeping it tender and juicy.
With its savory aroma and satisfying taste, this smoked meatloaf is perfect for a hearty meal that stands out. It’s an easy yet impressive way to enjoy a traditional favorite with a smoky edge.
32. Smoked Pork Butt
The pork in this recipe is seasoned with a flavorful rub and smoked low and slow, resulting in tender, juicy meat with a rich, smoky depth. The slow smoking process creates a crispy, caramelized crust while keeping the inside moist and flavorful. Perfect for pulled pork sandwiches or as a main dish, this recipe brings out the best in pork with its savory and smoky characteristics
33. Brisket Tacos
These brisket tacos offer a mouthwatering twist on a classic dish. Tender, smoky brisket is the star of the show, cooked to perfection and shredded for a rich, flavorful filling. Paired with fresh toppings like salsa, avocado, and cilantro, these tacos are both satisfying and vibrant. The combination of smoky brisket with crisp, tangy garnishes creates a deliciously balanced bite.
34. Homemade Chicken Adana Kebabs (Turkish Recipe)
Chicken Adana brings a delightful blend of spices and flavors to your plate. This dish features ground chicken mixed with a rich combination of herbs and spices, then shaped onto skewers and grilled to perfection.
The result is a juicy, flavorful chicken with a distinctive, aromatic taste that’s both satisfying and exciting. With its blend of spices and savory notes, Chicken Adana offers a deliciously unique dining experience that’s sure to please.
35. Easy Chicken Boti Kabab Recipe (Juicy and Tender)
Chicken Boti Kabab offers a flavorful and aromatic twist on grilled chicken. This dish features tender chunks of chicken marinated in a spiced yogurt mixture, then grilled to perfection. The result is juicy, well-seasoned meat with a smoky, charred exterior and a rich, spiced flavor. Ideal for those who enjoy vibrant, savory dishes, Chicken Boti Kabab provides a satisfying and delicious taste experience with every bite.
36. Smoked Venison Backstrap
Smoked venison backstrap brings a gourmet touch to your table with its rich, smoky flavor. This dish features tender venison backstrap that’s seasoned and smoked to perfection, resulting in a beautifully cooked cut of meat with a deep, smoky aroma and a juicy, flavorful interior.
The smoking process enhances the venison’s natural taste, creating a succulent and satisfying experience. Ideal for those who enjoy game meat with a smoky twist, this recipe offers a unique and delicious way to savor venison.
37. Smoked Mushrooms
Mushrooms are gently smoked to enhance their natural umami taste, resulting in a juicy and flavorful bite with a deep, aromatic profile. This technique brings out a unique depth of flavor, making these smoked mushrooms a fantastic addition to various dishes or as a tasty standalone snack.
Ideal for adding a smoky twist to your meals, they provide a satisfying and delicious experience for any mushroom lover.
38. Smoked Brisket Guide
This is more of a guide than a recipe. It is perfect for those looking to master the art of barbecue. It covers key techniques and tips for achieving a perfectly smoked brisket, including seasoning, smoking temperatures, and cooking times.
The result is a brisket with a rich, smoky flavor and a tender, juicy texture. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a beginner, this recipe offers valuable insights for creating a delicious, expertly smoked brisket.
39. Easy Smoked Tomatoes
Smoked tomatoes on the Traeger grill offer a burst of smoky, tangy goodness that’s perfect for enhancing various dishes. The tomatoes are smoked until they develop a deep, rich flavor and a slightly caramelized texture.
This process intensifies their natural sweetness and adds a delightful smoky layer, making them a great addition to salads, sauces, or as a stand-alone treat. The Traeger grill imparts a unique flavor, turning simple tomatoes into a gourmet ingredient with a deliciously smoky edge.
40. Smoked Onions (Perfectly Caramelized)
Smoked caramelized onions on the Traeger grill transform this classic ingredient into something extraordinary. The onions are slowly smoked and caramelized, resulting in a rich, sweet flavor with a deep, smoky undertone.
This method enhances their natural sweetness and adds a complex, aromatic touch, making them a perfect addition to burgers, sandwiches, or even as a topping for various dishes.
41. Smoked Chicken Thighs
These thighs are seasoned and smoked to perfection, resulting in a juicy, flavorful meat with a crispy skin. The smoking process infuses the chicken with a rich, smoky aroma that enhances its natural taste.
Whether you’re serving them as a main dish or incorporating them into other recipes, these smoked chicken thighs offer a satisfying and savory experience with every bite. They’re an easy yet impressive way to enjoy smoky, tender chicken at its best.
42. Smoked Mac and Cheese with Bacon
Smoked macaroni and cheese takes a classic comfort food to a new level. This dish combines creamy, cheesy pasta with a hint of smoky flavor, thanks to a slow-smoking process that enriches the cheese sauce with a deep, aromatic taste.
This results in a decadent, savory side dish with a perfect balance of creaminess and smoky goodness. Ideal for adding a unique twist to your dinner spread or barbecue, this smoked macaroni and cheese offers a deliciously rich and satisfying experience that elevates traditional mac and cheese.
43. Boneless Smoked Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs are seasoned with a flavorful rub and smoked slowly to achieve a crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior. The smoking process imparts a rich, smoky essence that enhances the savory taste of the chicken.
Perfect for a satisfying meal, these smoked chicken thighs are versatile enough to shine at any gathering, offering a mouthwatering twist on traditional grilled or baked chicken.
44. Smoked Brisket: Texas-Style Recipe
Smoked brisket delivers an incredible blend of smoky richness and tender texture. This recipe achieves the perfect balance between a flavorful rub and the slow smoking process, resulting in a brisket with a beautifully caramelized crust and a juicy, succulent interior.
The slow smoking infuses the meat with a deep, aromatic smokiness that complements its natural beefy goodness.
This list of 44 must-try smoker recipes is absolutely mouthwatering! I love how you’ve curated such a diverse selection of smoky flavors that will take any BBQ to the next level—thanks for sharing these fantastic ideas!
Wow! So many amazing smoker recipes. My son would love the smoked mac and cheese and I would me some of that brisket tacos! Perfect for any time of day in my opinion.
Maureen | http://www.littlemisscasual.com
This is a lovely collection of recipes , there are so many varieties , flavours and textures.
Yummy! I’m so hungry now. I love smoked meatloaf or brisket. Thank you for cool recipes.
I really enjoyed reading your comprehensive list. There is something for everybody. I especially like vegan smoked recipes. Thanks for sharing!
I love the variety you’ve included, and I can’t wait to try a few of them for my next BBQ. There’s just something about that smoky flavor that makes everything taste amazing!
What a great collection of smoker recipes. Cedar Plank Salmon Sounds like the one I am trying first! Thanks for gathering these all together. I will need to try more than one!
I love the wide variety of recipe options. Who doesn’t like a yummy smoky flavourful meal.
Those are all wonderful selection of smoker recipes to check out and keep in mind. My husband would love these dishes and will definitely try them out soon.
These yummy recipes, I can see some of this list that I love because I tried them before but would love to try the new ones as smoked brisket.