Are you a grilling enthusiast looking to level up your game? Look no further! In this article, we’ll explore 20 flavorful and healthy Traeger recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From savory meats like chicken, turkey, and pork tenderloin, to fresh vegetables and seafood options, there’s something for everyone in our collection of mouth-watering dishes.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out with your Traeger, these recipes are designed to be easy to make and packed with nutrients. With a focus on whole foods and minimal processing, these meals are perfect for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. So grab your apron and let’s get started!
[Insert recipe names and images here]
Traeger Smoked Lemon Herb Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this bright and citrusy recipe that’s perfect for a summer cookout or a family dinner. This Traeger Smoked Lemon Herb Chicken is smothered in a zesty lemon-herb butter and slow-cooked to tender perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, lemon juice, parsley, thyme, and garlic powder.
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Place the chicken on the Traeger grill mat and brush the lemon-herb butter evenly over each breast.
5. Smoke for 4 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Cooking Time: 4 hours
Healthy Traeger Grilled Salmon with Avocado Salsa
Elevate your grilling game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the tender taste of salmon with a refreshing avocado salsa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend BBQ, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 wild-caught Alaskan salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Traeger grill to 400°F.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Place the salmon on the grill, skin side down (if applicable). Close the lid and cook for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine the diced avocado, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro in a bowl. Mix well to combine.
5. Serve the grilled salmon with the avocado salsa spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes for salmon; 5 minutes for assembly
Smoked Turkey Breast with Garlic and Rosemary
Smoked Turkey Breast with Garlic and Rosemary Recipe Summary:
Elevate your holiday meal with this flavorful and aromatic smoked turkey breast recipe, featuring the perfect balance of garlic and rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless turkey breast
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or applewood work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and chopped rosemary.
3. Rub the garlic-rosemary mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the turkey breast in the smoker and close the lid.
6. Smoke for 2-1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
7. Remove the turkey from the smoker and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-1/2 hours
Traeger Grilled Vegetable Medley with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this flavorful and easy-to-make Traeger recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. This medley of grilled vegetables is enhanced by a rich balsamic glaze that adds depth and complexity to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 yellow squash, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, toss together vegetables, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Load the vegetables onto the Traeger grill grates in a single layer.
4. Close lid and cook for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
5. Brush balsamic glaze over the vegetables during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Low-Carb Traeger Smoked Pork Tenderloin
This recipe yields a tender and flavorful pork tenderloin smoked to perfection using your Traeger grill. Perfect for a low-carb dinner, this dish is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar-free BBQ rub
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger grill to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, BBQ rub, and salt and pepper to taste.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork tenderloin, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork tenderloin on the Traeger grill and close the lid.
5. Smoke the tenderloin for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
6. Remove the tenderloin from the Traeger and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Chimichurri Sauce
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these flavorful and easy-to-make grilled shrimp skewers, served with a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped oregano
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, parsley, oregano, garlic, and lemon juice.
4. Brush the chimichurri sauce evenly over the shrimp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Traeger Smoked Cauliflower Steaks with Tahini Drizzle
Elevate your side dish game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the rich flavors of smoked cauliflower with a creamy tahini drizzle. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a show-stopping side at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 tsp honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger grill to 375°F.
2. Cut the cauliflower into 1-inch thick “steaks”.
3. Brush both sides of the cauliflower steaks with olive oil and season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the cauliflower steaks on the Traeger grill and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, mix together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and honey in a small bowl.
6. Remove the cauliflower from the Traeger and drizzle with the tahini mixture. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Healthy Traeger BBQ Chicken Thighs with No-Sugar Sauce
Elevate your backyard barbecue game with this nutritious and delicious recipe that combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked chicken thighs with a tangy, no-sugar sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup No-Sugar BBQ Sauce (see below)
No-Sugar BBQ Sauce:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a Traeger-safe dish and brush with the marinade.
4. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Brush with No-Sugar BBQ Sauce during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon and Honey
Elevate your fall gatherings with this sweet and savory side dish, perfect for the holidays or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (optional)
– 1/4 cup water
– Wood chips or chunks for smoking (your choice of flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Place the sweet potato wedges in a large bowl and brush with the honey-cinnamon mixture.
4. Add apple cider vinegar (if using) and water, stirring gently to coat the sweet potatoes evenly.
5. Load the sweet potatoes onto your smoker racks or foil packets, leaving some space for even cooking.
6. Smoke the sweet potatoes for 2-3 hours, or until they reach your desired level of tenderness.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Traeger Grilled Cod with Lemon and Fresh Herbs
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful Traeger Grilled Cod recipe, infused with the brightness of lemon and freshness of herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger grill to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, and dill.
3. Place cod fillets on the Traeger grill, skin side down (if applicable).
4. Brush the lemon-herb mixture evenly over the fish.
5. Close the lid and cook for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Kale and Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers on the Traeger
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this nutritious and flavorful recipe! By combining the earthy sweetness of bell peppers with the nutty goodness of quinoa, the crunch of kale, and the smoky charm of the Traeger, you’ll be enjoying a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups chopped kale
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chopped kale, olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling as full as possible.
5. Place stuffed bell peppers on the Traeger grill, leaving about 1 inch of space between each pepper.
6. Close the lid and cook for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Brussels Sprouts with Garlic and Parmesan
Elevate your side dish game with this easy yet impressive recipe that combines the earthy sweetness of Brussels sprouts with the pungency of garlic and the richness of Parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Place the sprouts in the smoker or grill and cook for 30-40 minutes, or until caramelized and tender.
4. Remove from heat and sprinkle with smoked paprika and Parmesan cheese.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Traeger Grilled Turkey Burgers with Zucchini
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with these tender and flavorful Traeger grilled turkey burgers, paired with perfectly cooked zucchini. This easy recipe is perfect for a summer cookout or weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey burger patties
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Traeger grill to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Brush both sides of the turkey burger patties with the oil mixture.
4. Place the burgers on the Traeger grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, place zucchini slices on the Traeger grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
6. Serve turkey burgers on a bun with sliced zucchini and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Healthy Traeger Smoked Beef Brisket with Spice Rub
This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked beef brisket with a boost of healthiness from a spice rub made with wholesome ingredients. The result is a tender, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (5-6 pound) beef brisket
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together spice rub ingredients.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the brisket, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the brisket in the Traeger and cook for 10 hours or until tender.
5. Let the brisket rest for 30 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 10 hours
Grilled Pineapple with Chili Lime Seasoning
Elevate your pineapple game with this sweet and spicy recipe that’s perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons chili lime seasoning (such as McCormick)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chili lime seasoning and brown sugar.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the pineapple wedges.
4. Grill the pineapple for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with cilantro (if using).
6. Drizzle with freshly squeezed lime juice.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Traeger Smoked Portobello Mushrooms with Goat Cheese
Smoky Portobello Mushrooms with Goat Cheese: Elevate your appetizer game with this rich and earthy recipe that combines the deep flavor of Traeger-smoked mushrooms with the creamy tang of goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps sliced into thick strips
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 225°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the mushroom strips and toss to coat.
3. Place the mushrooms on the Traeger grill mat in a single layer. Smoke for 2 hours, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Top each mushroom strip with crumbled goat cheese.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Lean Traeger Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Pesto
Experience the rich flavor of lamb chops elevated by the freshness of mint and herbs, all achieved through a simple yet impressive Traeger grilling process.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs lamb chops
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup store-bought or homemade pesto
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Traeger to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, mint leaves, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Place lamb chops in a shallow dish and brush the mixture evenly on both sides of the chops.
4. Place lamb chops on the Traeger grill mat, leaving space between each chop.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving with mint pesto spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smoked Butternut Squash with Sage Butter
Smoked Butternut Squash with Sage Butter Recipe
Transform ordinary butternut squash into a rich and savory side dish by infusing it with the deep flavors of smoke and herbs. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of squash with the earthy essence of sage, perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh sage leaves
– Wood chips or chunks for smoking (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. In a bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. Rub the spice mixture evenly onto both squash halves.
5. Place the squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cut side up.
6. Dot the top of each squash half with butter and sprinkle with chopped sage leaves.
7. If desired, add wood chips or chunks for smoking to enhance the flavor.
8. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Traeger Grilled Eggplant with Harissa Yogurt
Elevate your eggplant game with this simple yet flavorful Traeger recipe. The smoky flavor of the Traeger grill pairs perfectly with the creamy harissa yogurt sauce, making it a great side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup harissa
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 375°F.
2. Slice eggplants into 1-inch thick rounds and brush with olive oil.
3. Season with garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Place eggplant slices on the Traeger grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, mix harissa and yogurt in a bowl.
6. Once eggplants are cooked, serve with harissa yogurt sauce and garnish with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Healthy Traeger Smoked Trout with Dill and Lemon
This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked trout with the brightness of lemon and the freshness of dill, all while keeping things healthy and low-fat. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 trout fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped dill
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 300°F.
2. Rinse trout fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together chopped dill, lemon juice, and olive oil.
4. Place trout on the Traeger grates and brush with the dill-lemon mixture.
5. Close lid and smoke for 20-25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
6. Remove from heat, season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your grilling game with these 20 flavorful and healthy Traeger recipes! From classic chicken and salmon dishes to innovative vegetable medleys and seafood options, there’s something for every taste. Discover how Traeger’s smoky flavor can bring out the best in lean proteins like turkey breast, pork tenderloin, and shrimp skewers. Plus, don’t miss vegetarian and vegan options like cauliflower steaks with tahini drizzle or grilled eggplant with harissa yogurt. Whether you’re a grilling enthusiast or just looking for new inspiration, these recipes are sure to please.
