What Is Good to Cook on a Traeger?

Introduction

When it comes to outdoor cooking, few tools rival the versatility and flavor-enhancing capabilities of a Traeger grill. If you’re wondering what is good to cook on a Traeger, the answer is nearly everything! Known for their wood-fired cooking system, Traeger grills combine the convenience of modern technology with the rich, smoky flavors of traditional barbecue. These grills excel at cooking everything from tender smoked meats to mouthwatering desserts, making them a must-have for food enthusiasts looking to explore what is good to cook on a Traeger.

Traeger grills operate on a wood pellet system, where different wood varieties like hickory, mesquite, and applewood infuse unique flavors into your food. This sets them apart from conventional gas or charcoal grills, offering a distinctive culinary experience.

For more inspiration and step-by-step recipes, explore our guide: Traeger Recipes: Master Smoking, Grilling, and Baking.

Benefits of Using a Traeger Grill for Cooking

1. Enhanced Flavor: Cooking on a Traeger ensures your food is infused with the natural flavors of the wood pellets. This gives your dishes a rich, smoky aroma that’s hard to replicate on other grills.
2. Versatility: From smoking and grilling to roasting and baking, Traeger grills can handle a wide range of cooking styles.
3. Ease of Use: With features like precise temperature control and automated pellet feeding, Traeger grills are user-friendly even for beginners.
4. Healthier Cooking: The indirect heat system reduces flare-ups, ensuring your food is cooked evenly without charring, which is a common concern with traditional grills.

Traeger grills are not just tools; they are an invitation to explore culinary creativity. If you’re wondering what is good to cook on a Traeger, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re an experienced pitmaster or someone new to outdoor cooking, Traeger grills offer the perfect platform to experiment with everything from smoked meats to wood-fired desserts. There’s always something exciting to try when discovering what is good to cook on a Traeger.

What Is Good to Cook on a Traeger? Exploring Its Versatility

Traeger grills are renowned for their ability to go beyond basic grilling. They are designed to function as a smoker, grill, oven, and even a pizza oven. This versatility allows you to experiment with a vast array of recipes and cooking techniques.

Features That Make Traeger Grills Versatile

1. Wood Pellet System: Traeger grills use wood pellets as fuel, offering precise control over the flavor profile of your food. You can choose from a variety of wood types such as cherry, pecan, or oak, depending on the dish.
2. Digital Temperature Control: Maintaining a consistent cooking temperature is essential for achieving perfect results. Traeger’s built-in digital controllers help you set and monitor the temperature with ease.
3. Multi-Function Cooking Modes: With a Traeger, you can smoke brisket for hours, grill juicy burgers, bake bread, or even roast a whole chicken, all using the same appliance.
4. Large Cooking Space: Traeger grills come in various sizes, but even the compact models offer ample cooking space for large meals or multiple dishes at once.

Foods That Show What’s Good to Cook on a Traeger

Thanks to their versatility, Traeger grills excel at cooking a diverse range of dishes. Here’s an overview of what works exceptionally well:

1. Meats: The grill’s wood-fired system shines when used for smoking brisket, ribs, or even whole turkeys.
2. Seafood: Delicate items like salmon, shrimp, and scallops cook perfectly without sticking, while absorbing the grill’s smoky flavor.
3. Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, and corn are elevated to new heights of flavor when roasted on a Traeger.
4. Baked Goods: From pies to pizzas, Traeger grills can double as a wood-fired oven, providing an authentic, rustic taste.

Traeger grills invite experimentation, so the possibilities are virtually endless. Whether it’s a classic barbecue dish or a creative twist, these grills are built to deliver exceptional results every time.

For an expanded collection of dishes and detailed instructions, check out Traeger Recipes: Master Smoking, Grilling, and Baking.

What Is Good to Cook on a Traeger? Best Proteins to Try

Traeger grills are a game-changer when it comes to cooking proteins. Their even heat distribution and smoky infusion bring out the best in meats and seafood, turning ordinary recipes into gourmet meals. Here’s a closer look at some of the best proteins to cook on a Traeger.

Smoked Brisket: A Must-Try on a Traeger

Few dishes showcase the potential of a Traeger grill like smoked brisket. The slow-cooking process combined with the smoky flavor creates a tender, melt-in-your-mouth experience.

• Preparation Tips: Start with a well-marbled brisket and season it generously with a dry rub of salt, pepper, garlic, and paprika. Let it rest overnight for deeper flavor penetration.
• Cooking Instructions: Smoke the brisket low and slow at 225°F, using hickory or mesquite pellets for an authentic barbecue flavor. Plan for about 1.5 hours of cooking time per pound of brisket.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy and Smoky

Whether it’s chicken breasts, thighs, or a whole bird, Traeger grills elevate this common protein to new heights.

• Preparation Tips: Brine the chicken for a few hours to keep it moist. Use a marinade or rub of your choice to enhance the flavor.
• Cooking Instructions: Grill at 375°F for crispy skin and juicy meat. Applewood or cherrywood pellets complement the delicate flavor of chicken.

Salmon and Seafood: Healthy Options

Traeger grills excel with seafood, delivering moist, perfectly cooked results every time.

• Preparation Tips: Season salmon fillets with olive oil, lemon, dill, and a sprinkle of sea salt. For shrimp, marinate in garlic butter and herbs.
• Cooking Instructions: Smoke salmon at 180°F for 1-2 hours for a rich, smoky flavor. Grill shrimp and scallops at 350°F for just a few minutes on each side.

By mastering these proteins, you’ll unlock the full potential of your Traeger grill, impressing your family and friends with unforgettable meals.

Vegetables and Sides: What’s Good to Cook on a Traeger

Traeger grills aren’t just for meats—they’re ideal for preparing vegetables and side dishes that complement any meal. What is good to cook on a Traeger when it comes to veggies? Think smoky roasted bell peppers, perfectly grilled zucchini, or charred corn on the cob. The wood-fired system enhances the natural flavors of vegetables and adds a smoky depth that’s hard to achieve with other cooking methods. Exploring what is good to cook on a Traeger opens up endless options for creative and delicious sides.

Roasted Veggies: Smoky Perfection

Traeger grills turn ordinary vegetables into culinary delights. The consistent heat and smoky flavor elevate their taste and texture.

• Best Vegetables to Roast: Bell peppers, zucchini, asparagus, mushrooms, and Brussels sprouts work wonderfully.
• Preparation Tips: Toss your vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs like rosemary or thyme. Place them directly on the grill grates or use a grill basket for smaller items.
• Cooking Instructions: Set the Traeger to 375°F and roast the veggies for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally for even cooking.

Grilled Potatoes: A Simple Favorite

Potatoes are a versatile and satisfying side dish, and they take on a whole new dimension when grilled on a Traeger.

• Preparation Tips: Slice potatoes into wedges or thick rounds. Coat them with olive oil and season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of cayenne for extra flavor.
• Cooking Instructions: Grill at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. The result is crispy, smoky potatoes with a tender interior.

Corn on the Cob: Enhanced by Smoke

Corn on the cob gets a delightful upgrade when cooked on a Traeger. The wood-fired grill imparts a subtle sweetness that enhances the natural flavor of the corn.

• Preparation Tips: Peel back the husks without removing them, remove the silk, and soak the corn in water for 10 minutes. Spread butter and sprinkle salt or chili powder before folding the husks back up.
• Cooking Instructions: Grill the corn at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally. For a charred finish, remove the husks for the final few minutes.

Wood-Fired Pizza: A Unique Twist

Traeger grills can double as a wood-fired oven, making them perfect for cooking homemade pizza with a crispy crust and smoky flavor.

• Preparation Tips: Use a pre-made dough or make your own. Add your favorite toppings, such as fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and olive oil.
• Cooking Instructions: Preheat the Traeger to 450°F with a pizza stone inside. Cook the pizza for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.

Traeger’s ability to cook side dishes alongside your main course saves time and ensures every element of your meal is infused with wood-fired goodness.

Sweet Treats: What Is Good to Cook on a Traeger for Desserts?

Traeger grills aren’t limited to savory dishes—they’re equally exceptional for crafting desserts. The wood-fired flavor adds a unique twist to sweet treats, creating memorable finishes to your meals.

Smoked Apple Crisp

A comforting classic, apple crisp takes on a smoky edge when cooked on a Traeger, perfectly balancing sweetness and depth of flavor.

• Preparation Tips: Slice tart apples like Granny Smith and mix with cinnamon, sugar, and a touch of lemon juice. Top with a mixture of oats, brown sugar, flour, and butter for a crunchy crust.
• Cooking Instructions: Preheat the grill to 350°F and place the apple crisp in a cast-iron skillet. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the apples are bubbling.

Wood-Fired Brownies: Good to Cook on a Traeger

Brownies cooked on a Traeger grill gain a rich, smoky flavor that enhances their chocolatey goodness.

• Preparation Tips: Use your favorite brownie mix or homemade recipe. Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra texture.
• Cooking Instructions: Pour the batter into a cast-iron pan or a grill-safe baking dish. Grill at 325°F for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Grilled Pineapple with Caramel Drizzle

This tropical dessert is simple, healthy, and irresistibly delicious when prepared on a Traeger.

• Preparation Tips: Slice fresh pineapple into rings or wedges. Brush them with honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
• Cooking Instructions: Grill the pineapple at 400°F for 5-7 minutes per side, until caramelized and slightly charred. Serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Smoked Cheesecake: A Decadent Traeger Creation

For a truly indulgent dessert, cheesecake cooked on a Traeger offers creamy texture with a hint of smokiness.

• Preparation Tips: Prepare your favorite cheesecake recipe and pour the batter into a springform pan. Add a graham cracker crust for classic flavor.
• Cooking Instructions: Smoke the cheesecake at 225°F for 1-2 hours, then chill it in the refrigerator before serving.

Traeger desserts are a testament to the grill’s versatility, providing a unique way to end any meal on a high note.

If you’re looking for more dessert ideas to try, don’t miss Traeger Recipes: Master Smoking, Grilling, and Baking, featuring recipes for every occasion.

Pro Tips for Mastering What’s Good to Cook on a Traeger

Cooking on a Traeger is an enjoyable and rewarding experience, but a few key strategies can help you make the most of your grill. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned user, these tips will ensure consistent results and elevate your wood-fired cooking skills.

Choosing Pellets Based on What’s Good to Cook on a Traeger

The flavor of your food on a Traeger depends heavily on the type of wood pellets you use. Each wood variety has its own unique characteristics, making it essential to choose the right one for your dish.

• Hickory: Ideal for hearty meats like brisket and ribs, offering a strong and smoky flavor.
• Applewood: Pairs well with poultry, pork, and desserts, delivering a mild, sweet smoke.
• Mesquite: Best for bold, rich flavors, often used for steak or burgers.
• Cherrywood: Adds a subtle sweetness, great for fish, poultry, and baked goods.

Maintenance Tips for Consistently Good Traeger Results

Proper maintenance is critical to keep your Traeger running smoothly and your food tasting great.

• Regular Cleaning: Clean the grill grates, grease drip tray, and fire pot after every few uses to prevent buildup that can impact flavor.
• Check Pellet Levels: Ensure you have enough pellets before starting a cook, especially for recipes that require long smoking times.
• Inspect Temperature Probes: Accurate temperature readings are crucial. Calibrate or replace probes if needed to maintain precision.

Experimenting With Flavors for the Best Traeger Recipes

One of the joys of using a Traeger is experimenting with different pellet blends to create custom flavors.

• Blending Pellets: Mix applewood with hickory for a balanced sweet-and-smoky taste, or pair cherrywood with oak for a subtle fruitiness.
• Seasonal Pairings: Use maple pellets for fall-inspired dishes or mesquite for robust summer barbecues.
• Pro Tip: Keep notes on your flavor experiments to find the perfect combinations for your favorite recipes.

Utilizing Traeger Accessories

Traeger offers a variety of accessories designed to enhance your cooking experience:

• Pizza Stone: For making perfectly crisp wood-fired pizzas.
• Grill Covers: Protect your grill from the elements, extending its lifespan.
• Meat Thermometers: Ensure meats are cooked to the perfect temperature without opening the grill.

Plan Ahead for Low-and-Slow Cooking

Smoking meats or cooking large dishes like brisket requires patience and preparation.

• Timing Is Key: Start early, as low-and-slow recipes can take several hours. Build in time for resting the meat after cooking.
• Layering Flavors: Consider using a marinade or brine overnight before adding a dry rub and cooking on the grill.

These pro tips will help you maximize the potential of your Traeger grill, ensuring every meal is a flavorful success.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the Best Thing to Smoke on a Traeger?

The best item to smoke on a Traeger depends on personal preference, but certain dishes truly showcase the grill’s capabilities.

• Brisket: Considered the gold standard of smoking, brisket develops an irresistible bark and tender interior when cooked low and slow on a Traeger.
• Ribs: Whether it’s baby back or spare ribs, the combination of rubs, marinades, and wood smoke makes ribs a crowd-pleaser.
• Pulled Pork: Pork shoulder smoked on a Traeger turns into a juicy, flavorful base for sandwiches or standalone dishes.

For adventurous cooks, smoked salmon or even cheese can be excellent choices that highlight the grill’s versatility.

What Is the First Thing I Should Make on My Traeger?

If you’re new to Traeger grilling, start with recipes that are easy to master and highlight the grill’s flavor-enhancing power.

• Chicken Thighs: Juicy, forgiving, and quick to cook, chicken thighs allow you to experiment with rubs and pellet flavors without much risk.
• Smoked Burgers: Burgers are straightforward and benefit from the subtle smoky flavor of the grill.
• Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus are simple and allow you to familiarize yourself with temperature control.

Starting with simpler dishes helps you get comfortable with Traeger’s settings while still producing delicious results.

What Are Traeger Grills Good For?

Traeger grills excel at versatility, making them suitable for various cooking techniques:

• Smoking: Perfect for creating rich, flavorful dishes like brisket, ribs, or turkey.
• Grilling: Juicy steaks, burgers, and veggies benefit from even heat distribution.
• Baking: With their consistent temperatures, Traegers can bake bread, cookies, and even pizzas.
• Roasting: Roast a whole chicken or prime rib with ease and confidence.

Their versatility allows you to prepare entire meals on one grill, from appetizers to desserts.

What Is the Best Meat to Cook on a Pellet Grill?

Pellet grills, like Traeger, shine with meats that benefit from slow, consistent cooking or those that pair well with smoky flavors:

• Brisket: The long smoking process on a pellet grill transforms brisket into a tender masterpiece.
• Pork Shoulder: Known for pulled pork, this cut thrives with the low-and-slow approach of a pellet grill.
• Ribs: The balance of smoky flavor and tenderness makes ribs an iconic choice.
• Chicken and Turkey: Poultry cooked on a pellet grill comes out juicy with a crispy, golden skin.

Each of these options allows the wood pellets to infuse their unique smoky flavors into the meat, making them top picks for pellet grilling enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Cooking on a Traeger grill is a culinary adventure that combines modern convenience with the timeless appeal of wood-fired flavor. If you’re curious what is good to cook on a Traeger, the options are endless. From tender smoked brisket to perfectly grilled vegetables and even creative wood-fired desserts, Traeger grills shine in delivering exceptional results. Exploring what is good to cook on a Traeger allows you to discover dishes that transform ordinary meals into extraordinary experiences.

Their versatility makes them an ideal choice for both novice cooks and seasoned grillmasters, offering the ability to smoke, grill, bake, and roast with ease. By experimenting with different wood pellet flavors and mastering cooking techniques, you can create meals that leave lasting impressions on family and friends.

Traeger grills are more than just a cooking tool—they’re a gateway to unforgettable culinary experiences. Whether you’re exploring classic barbecue recipes or pushing the boundaries with creative dishes, there’s always something new and delicious to cook on a Traeger.