The smoker infuses ingredients with layers of woodsy, savory richness. Long, gentle cooking creates tender textures that fall apart with ease. Spices and rubs take on new depth during the process. A standout option for cooks who love flavors that build slowly and dramatically.

Smoked Salmon Dip

Smoked Salmon Dip. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Creamy richness meets a gentle smoky flavor in every bite, making it a guaranteed favorite on any snack table. It pairs beautifully with crackers, toasted bread, or crisp vegetables. Ideal for parties or casual get-togethers, it feels elegant without being difficult to make. Expect it to disappear fast once served.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Dip

Smoked Salmon Wrap

Smoked Salmon Wrap. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

A soft tortilla combined with smoky salmon, fresh veggies, and a creamy spread creates a light yet satisfying meal. It’s perfect for lunch, picnics, or a quick grab-and-go option. Every bite offers a mix of freshness and savory flavor. Great for anyone who wants something delicious without heavy cooking.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Wrap

Smoked Gouda and Ricotta Fritters

Close-up of hands pulling apart a crispy, golden-brown, fried cheese ball, revealing melted cheese inside. More cheese balls are visible in a bowl in the background.
Smoked Gouda and Ricotta Fritters. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

A crisp golden crust gives way to an irresistibly cheesy, smoky center that feels indulgent in the best way. Every bite brings together creamy ricotta and bold gouda for an unforgettable flavor combo. They make a standout appetizer for parties or cozy nights in. You may find yourself making them just for an excuse to snack.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Gouda and Ricotta Fritters

Traeger Smoked Garlic

Close-up of roasted garlic cloves.
Traeger Smoked Garlic. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Whole heads of garlic transform in the smoker into soft, buttery cloves filled with deep, mellow flavor. Spread it on bread, mix into butter, or mash into sauces for an instant upgrade. The smoky aroma alone lets you know something amazing is happening. It’s a small effort that delivers big culinary payoff.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Garlic

Smoked Chicken Wings

Smoked Chicken Wings on a light blue plate.
Smoked Chicken Wings. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Tender meat and crispy skin come together with a kiss of smoke to create the ultimate party wing. The flavor works beautifully with your favorite sauces or simply enjoyed as is. They’re great for cookouts, family dinners, or casual snacking nights. Once you try them, fried wings might never feel the same again.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Wings

Smoked Jalapenos

Smoked Jalapenos in 2 cast iron pans.
Smoked Jalapenos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Spice lovers get a real treat with smoky jalapeños that bring both heat and bold flavor. They’re fantastic on their own or chopped into burgers, nachos, and tacos. The smoking process softens the peppers while deepening their taste. They’re addictive little bites that disappear quickly at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Jalapenos

Easy Smoked Sausage and Pasta

A bowl of penne pasta with sliced sausage, tomatoes, and grated cheese, garnished with herbs. A fork is placed beside the bowl.
Easy Smoked Sausage and Pasta. Photo credit: Mama’s on a Budget.

Comfort food vibes shine through with tender pasta coated in a creamy sauce and loaded with smoky sausage. The blend of vegetables adds both color and extra flavor. It’s simple enough for busy nights yet hearty enough to feel special. Expect happy plates and no leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Easy Smoked Sausage and Pasta

Smoked Chicken Al Pastor

A stack of chicken and pineapple on a vertical skewer on a cutting board.
Smoked Chicken Al Pastor. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Classic al pastor flavors meet slow smoke for juicy, deeply seasoned chicken bursting with tangy, sweet, and smoky notes. The marinade of chilies and pineapple creates layers of complexity without being difficult to prepare. Serve it in tacos, bowls, or over rice for a satisfying meal. Each bite delivers a vibrant balance of spice and brightness.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Al Pastor

Smoked Salmon and Spinach Quiche

two slices of smoked salmon and spinach quiche on dark blue plates.
Smoked Salmon and Spinach Quiche. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

A flaky crust filled with silky custard, delicate salmon, and fresh spinach makes for an elegant yet approachable dish. Goat cheese and herbs add brightness and tang in every slice. It shines as a brunch centerpiece but also works beautifully for lunch or light dinner. Guests will think it took far more effort than it really did.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon and Spinach Quiche

Smoked Chicken Drumsticks

Smoked Chicken Drumstick with parsley on a white plate.
Smoked Chicken Drumsticks. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Juicy meat that practically falls off the bone pairs beautifully with layers of smoky goodness. They’re easy to prepare and ideal for feeding a crowd. Every bite delivers barbecue flavor without requiring complicated techniques. Weekends and backyard gatherings are made for meals like this.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Drumsticks

Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

Smoked jalapeno poppers on a platter.
Smoked Jalapeno Poppers. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Creamy filling tucked inside spicy jalapeños and wrapped in bacon creates the ultimate party bite. The smoker adds another layer of flavor that ovens just can’t match. They’re rich, smoky, and slightly spicy all at once. Perfect for game day or any time you want a fun appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

Smoked Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin

Smoked Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin with parsley on a plate with a fork.
Smoked Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Juicy pork wrapped in crisp, smoky bacon gives you the best of both worlds in one bite. The smoker adds depth while keeping everything incredibly tender. It feels like a special-occasion dish yet is surprisingly simple to pull off. Get ready for compliments at the table.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin

Reverse Seared Smoked Steaks with Smoked Garlic Butter

Reverse Seared Smoked Steaks with Smoked Garlic Butter on a plate with asparagus.
Reverse Seared Smoked Steaks with Smoked Garlic Butter. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Slow smoking followed by a hot sear creates steak with a perfect crust and incredibly tender center. A generous topping of smoked garlic butter melts over the top for extra richness. The result is restaurant-quality flavor made right at home. Steak lovers won’t forget this meal anytime soon.
Get the Recipe: Reverse Seared Smoked Steaks with Smoked Garlic Butter

Traeger Smoked Pork Chop

Traeger Smoked Pork Chop with a salad on a light gray plate
Traeger Smoked Pork Chop. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Thick, tender pork chops soak up a rich smoky flavor that makes them unforgettable. The cooking method keeps them juicy while adding a beautiful outer color. They’re hearty enough for a main dish yet pair well with simple sides. One bite is usually all it takes to make them a repeat favorite.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Pork Chop

Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze

Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze on a round platter.
Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sweet and slightly spicy glaze clings to smoky chicken for an irresistible combination of flavor. The legs stay juicy while picking up beautiful color from the smoker. Every bite offers a balance of heat, sweetness, and char. They’re surprisingly simple yet feel like something from a barbecue restaurant.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze

Smoked Brats

Smoked Brats with parsley on a tan plate.
Smoked Brats. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Juicy sausages take on deep smoky flavor that boosts their natural savoriness. They’re fantastic tucked into buns with mustard or sliced alongside your favorite sides. Great for tailgates, weeknight dinners, or backyard parties, they’re always a hit. Simple prep meets maximum flavor payoff.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brats

Smoked Shotgun Shells

Smoked shotgun shells on a white plate.
Smoked Shotgun Shells. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Large pasta tubes packed with meat and cheese become pure comfort once they’re wrapped in bacon and smoked. The bacon crisps beautifully while the filling becomes melty and savory inside. They look impressive on a platter and taste even better. Expect them to be the first appetizer to disappear.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Shotgun Shells

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, Iโ€™m Lucy! Iโ€™m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. Iโ€™ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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