When it comes to outdoor cooking, the Traeger grill has revolutionized the way people prepare their food. Its wood-pellet technology, precise temperature control, and versatility make it a favourite among barbecue enthusiasts. But with so many options, what is the best thing to cook on the Traeger? From mouth-watering pulled pork to smoky vegetables and even desserts, the possibilities are endless. Let’s explore the best dishes you can prepare on your Traeger, along with tips and tricks to perfect your grilling game.
What Makes a Traeger Grill Unique?
Traeger grills are different from your average BBQ grills. Instead of using gas or charcoal, these grills burn wood pellets. The pellets are made from compressed hardwood sawdust, which not only provides heat but also infuses the food with a delicious smoky flavour.
Key Features of a Traeger Grill
- Wood pellet system: Pellets are slowly fed into the grill to maintain a consistent temperature.
- Digital temperature control: This feature ensures precise cooking, whether you’re smoking low and slow or searing at high heat.
- Versatility: With the ability to grill, smoke, roast, bake, braise, and BBQ, the Traeger can handle almost any dish.
How Does a Traeger Grill Work?
The Traeger grill works by feeding wood pellets into a firepot, where they are ignited by a hot rod. The grill’s fan circulates the heat and smoke around the food, ensuring even cooking. Whether you’re making pulled pork or smoked salmon, the wood-fired flavour is what sets a Traeger apart from other grills.
Learn more about how Traeger grills work.
Best Things to Cook on a Traeger Grill
While Traeger grills can cook nearly anything, certain foods benefit greatly from the wood-fired flavour. Here are the best things to cook on a Traeger.Top 5 Meats to Cook on a Traeger
Pulled Pork
Pulled pork thrives on a Traeger, thanks to its long, slow smoking process, which tenderizes the meat and infuses a smoky flavor.
Ideal temperature: 225°F
Wood pellets: Hickory or applewood
Cooking time: 8-12 hours
Pro tip: Wrap the pork in foil during the final hours for moisture retention.
Beef Brisket
Brisket, a BBQ favorite, is perfect for the Traeger’s low-and-slow method.
Ideal temperature: 225°F until the internal temperature reaches 205°F
Wood pellets: Mesquite or oak
Cooking time: 10-15 hours
Pro tip: Use a meat thermometer to achieve the right doneness.
Ribs
Both baby back and spare ribs come out tender on the Traeger.
Ideal temperature: 225°F
Wood pellets: Cherry or pecan
Cooking time: 6-7 hours
Pro tip: Spritz with apple juice for moisture during cooking.
Whole Chicken
The Traeger gives whole chicken crispy skin and juicy meat.
Ideal temperature: 375°F for crispy skin
Wood pellets: Applewood
Cooking time: 1.5-2 hours
Pro tip: Spatchcock the chicken for even cooking.
Steaks
Traeger’s high heat setting ensures steaks are perfectly seared.
Ideal temperature: 450°F
Wood pellets: Oak or mesquite
Cooking time: 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare
Pro tip: Rest the steak for 5 minutes before slicing.
Check out more Traeger recipes for meats.
Best Vegetables to Cook on a Traeger
Vegetables might not be the first thing you think of when using a Traeger, but they take on a whole new flavour when grilled or smoked over wood pellets. Here are the best vegetables to cook on a Traeger.
- Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus is easy to cook and pairs perfectly with any Traeger-grilled meat.
- Ideal temperature: 400°F.
- Cooking time: 8-10 minutes.
- Pro tip: Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt before grilling for a simple yet delicious side.
- Smoked Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob becomes tender and sweet when smoked on a Traeger, making it a great summer side dish.
- Ideal temperature: 375°F.
- Cooking time: 20 minutes.
- Pro tip: Brush with butter and sprinkle with smoked paprika for extra flavour.
- Roasted Potatoes
Roasting potatoes on a Traeger gives them a crispy exterior and soft interior, perfect for serving alongside steak or chicken.
- Ideal temperature: 400°F.
- Cooking time: 30-40 minutes.
- Pro tip: Toss with garlic, rosemary, and olive oil before roasting.
Best Seafood Dishes to Cook on a Traeger
Seafood might seem tricky to grill, but the Traeger’s precise temperature control ensures perfectly cooked fish and shellfish every time. Here are the top seafood dishes to cook on a Traeger.
Salmon is a natural choice for the Traeger. The fish’s rich flavour is enhanced by the smoky wood pellets, making it one of the best seafood dishes to cook on the grill.
- Ideal temperature: Smoke at 180°F.
- Wood pellets: Alderwood or cherry provide a light, sweet smoke.
- Cooking time: 2-4 hours.
- Pro tip: Brine the salmon for a few hours before smoking to keep it moist.
- Grilled Shrimp
Quick and easy, grilled shrimp are ideal for weeknight dinners or as an appetizer at your next BBQ.
- Ideal temperature: 400°F.
- Cooking time: 6-8 minutes.
- Pro tip: Marinate the shrimp in olive oil, lemon, and garlic for added flavour.
- Lobster Tails
For a luxurious seafood meal, lobster tails are unbeatable when grilled on a Traeger.
- Ideal temperature: 350°F.
- Cooking time: 15-20 minutes.
- Pro tip: Brush the lobster tails with melted butter and garlic before grilling for a rich, savoury taste.
Unique Traeger Recipes to Try
The Traeger is so versatile that you can use it for more than just grilling meats and veggies. Here are a few unique recipes you can try on your Traeger.
Smoked Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is already a favourite comfort food, but when smoked on a Traeger, it reaches a whole new level of deliciousness.
- Ideal temperature: Smoke at 225°F.
- Cooking time: 1 hour.
- Pro tip: Add a crispy breadcrumb topping before smoking for extra texture.
Smoked Baked Beans
Baked beans are a BBQ staple, and cooking them on a Traeger gives them a deep, smoky flavour that complements any grilled meat.
- Ideal temperature: 225°F.
- Cooking time: 2 hours.
- Pro tip: Add chopped bacon to the beans for an extra smoky taste.
Baking on a Traeger
You might not think of baking on a grill, but the Traeger’s versatility makes it perfect for baking, too. Here are some delicious desserts to try.
Smoked Apple Pie
Apple pie takes on a whole new dimension when baked on a Traeger. The wood smoke infuses the apples with a subtle smokiness that complements their natural sweetness.
- Ideal temperature: 350°F.
- Cooking time: 1 hour.
- Pro tip: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert.
Smoked Brownies
Brownies are another surprise hit when made on a Traeger. The smoky flavour adds depth to the rich, chocolatey dessert.
- Ideal temperature: 350°F.
- Cooking time: 35-40 minutes.
- Pro tip: Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-and-salty treat.
Expert Tips for Cooking on a Traeger
To get the most out of your Traeger, here are some expert tips to ensure your dishes come out perfectly every time.
Wood Pellet Selection
The type of wood pellet you choose can significantly impact the flavour of your food.
- Hickory: Strong, smoky flavour—great for beef and pork.
- Applewood: Mild, sweet smoke—perfect for poultry and fish.
- Cherry: Adds a subtle sweetness—ideal for pork and ribs.
Find the best wood pellets for your grilling needs.
Maintaining Your Traeger Grill
Proper maintenance is essential for consistent cooking results. Be sure to:
- Clean the firepot regularly to prevent ash buildup.
- Check the auger for blockages.
- Empty the pellet hopper between uses if you’re storing the grill for an extended period.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking on a Traeger
- Over-smoking food: It’s easy to overdo it on the smoke, which can make your food bitter. Stick to recommended wood pellet types and avoid using too much.
- Not preheating the grill: Always let the Traeger reach the desired temperature before placing food on the grill. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
- Ignoring the resting time: Always let your meat rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to be redistributed, making for a juicier, more flavorful dish.
FAQs
- What is the best pellet flavour for beef?
Hickory and mesquite are the best wood pellet choices for beef, providing a strong, smoky flavour.
- Can I bake desserts on a Traeger?
Yes, you can bake desserts like pies, brownies, and even cakes on a Traeger. The wood-fired flavour adds a unique twist to classic baked goods.
- How do I clean my Traeger after use?
After every use, be sure to clean out the ash from the firepot and wipe down the grill grates. This helps ensure consistent performance and prolongs the life of your grill.
- What is the best temperature for smoking ribs?
For perfectly smoked ribs, set your Traeger to 225°F and cook for 6-7 hours, depending on the size of the ribs.
- How do I prevent my food from drying out?