Are you new to smoking meats? Or maybe you’re just looking to try some delicious and easy-to-make recipes that’ll impress your friends and family? Whatever the case, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouth-watering smoker recipes perfect for beginners. From classic pulled pork to simple smoked chicken thighs, and even smoked mac and cheese (yes, you read that right!), we’ve curated a list of recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out with smoking, these recipes will guide you through the process step by step, ensuring that you get perfect results every time. So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in and explore the world of smoked goodness!
Classic Smoked Pulled Pork
This recipe yields tender, flavorful pulled pork with a rich smoky taste that’s perfect for sandwiches, salads, or as a main course. With a few simple steps and some patience, you’ll be enjoying delicious smoked pulled pork in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 cup dry rub (see below)
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Dry Rub:
– 2 tablespoons paprika
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the dry rub ingredients.
3. Rub the dry rub all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork shoulder in the smoker and close the lid.
5. Smoke for 8-10 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).
6. After 6 hours, add wood chips to the smoker to give the pork a rich smoke flavor.
7. Once the pork is tender, use two forks to pull it apart into shreds.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Simple Smoked Chicken Thighs
Add a smoky flavor to your chicken with this easy recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and some low-and-slow cooking, you’ll have deliciously tender and flavorful smoked chicken thighs in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup wood chips (such as apple or cherry)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Season the chicken thighs with the spice mixture, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the chicken thighs in the smoker, leaving space between each thigh for even cooking.
5. Smoke the chicken for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Remove the chicken from the smoker and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Smoked Beef Brisket for Beginners
Get ready to fall in love with the tender, juicy flavor of smoked beef brisket! With this easy recipe, you’ll be a pro at smoking meat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole beef brisket (4-5 lbs)
– 1 cup dry rub (see below)
– 1 cup wood chips (post oak or apple work well)
– 1 cup liquid smoke
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Dry Rub:
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 2 tablespoons ground cumin
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. Trim excess fat from brisket and apply dry rub evenly, making sure to cover all surfaces.
3. Place brisket in smoker, fat side up.
4. Smoke for 10 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
5. Every hour or so, baste with liquid smoke and brown sugar mixture (1:1 ratio).
6. Once tender and falling apart, remove from heat and let rest for 30 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 10 hours
Easy Smoked Salmon Fillet
This recipe yields a deliciously smoky and tender salmon fillet with minimal effort. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this dish is sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp kosher salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups wood chips (apple or cherry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a piece of aluminum foil or a smoker tray. Sprinkle the sugar-paprika mixture evenly over each fillet.
4. Add wood chips to your smoker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Place the salmon in the smoker and cook for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
6. Remove the salmon from the smoker and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Pork Ribs with Dry Rub
Get ready to fall off the bone with this mouthwatering recipe! Smoked pork ribs slathered in a rich dry rub are perfect for any BBQ or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1/2 cup dry rub (see below)
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)
Dry Rub Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. Mix dry rub ingredients in a small bowl.
3. Remove membrane from ribs (optional but recommended).
4. Apply dry rub evenly to both sides of the ribs, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Place ribs in smoker for 4-6 hours or until tender and slightly charred.
6. During last hour of smoking, add wood chips to enhance flavor.
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
Beginner-Friendly Smoked Turkey Breast
Elevate your holiday meals with this easy-to-make smoked turkey breast recipe. With minimal equipment and a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying tender, flavorful turkey in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of flavor)
– 1 cup water
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the turkey in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Add wood chips to the smoker as needed to maintain the desired temperature and flavor.
6. Smoke the turkey for 4-5 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Sausage and Peppers
Savor the rich flavors of smoked sausage paired with sweet bell peppers and savory onions in this simple yet satisfying recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 2 large bell peppers, any color, sliced
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage slices and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add the sliced peppers and onions to the skillet. Cook until they are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Return the sausage to the skillet and stir to coat with the pepper mixture.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Basic Smoked Mac and Cheese
This recipe combines the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the rich flavor of smoked cheddar, creating a creamy and savory dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (smoked and regular)
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in smoked cheddar cheese until melted. Add paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce; mix well.
7. Transfer macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheddar cheese (regular).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Smoked BBQ Chicken Wings
Smoked BBQ Chicken Wings Recipe Summary:
Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food with this mouth-watering recipe for Smoked BBQ Chicken Wings. By combining the smoky flavor of wood-fired smoke with the sweetness of barbecue sauce, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1 cup smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– Wood chips for smoking (e.g., hickory, apple)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Rub the spice mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken wings.
4. Place chicken wings in the smoker for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. Brush with BBQ sauce during the last 30 minutes of smoking.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Easy Smoked Pork Tenderloin
This recipe yields a tender and flavorful smoked pork tenderloin with minimal effort. Perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) pork tenderloin
– 1 cup wood chips (apple or cherry work well)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork tenderloin, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the tenderloin in the smoker, close the lid, and smoke for 2-1/2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Smoked Garlic Butter Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this rich and aromatic recipe that combines the sweetness of shrimp with the depth of smoked garlic butter. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an impressive appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (55g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and smoked paprika; cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Stir in remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and smooth.
5. Toss shrimp with the garlic butter mixture until well coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Simple Smoked Corn on the Cob
Add a new dimension of flavor to your summer barbecues with this easy recipe for smoked corn on the cob. With just a few ingredients and some simple preparation, you’ll be enjoying tender, smoky ears of corn in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/4 cup wood chips (such as apple or cherry)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
4. Place the corn on the smoker or grill, closing the lid to trap the smoke.
5. Smoke for 30-40 minutes, or until the corn is tender and slightly charred.
6. Serve hot, slathered with butter and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoked Stuffed Bell Peppers
These sweet and savory stuffed bell peppers are infused with the rich flavor of smoked sausage and cheese, perfect for a hearty meal or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. Stuff each bell pepper with a quarter of the sausage, onion, garlic, rice, and cheese mixture.
3. Place peppers in smoker and cook for 2 hours, or until tender.
4. Remove peppers from smoker and sprinkle with paprika.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Beginner Smoked Meatloaf
This recipe is perfect for those new to smoking meats. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously tender and flavorful meatloaf in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wood chips for smoking (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place on a piece of aluminum foil or a smoker-safe pan.
4. Smoke the meatloaf for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
5. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Potatoes with Herbs
Transform your potatoes with the rich flavor of smoke and the freshness of herbs. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy side dish or a flavorful addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. Wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, thyme, and rosemary.
4. Add the potatoes to the bowl and toss them to coat with the herb mixture.
5. Place the potatoes in the smoker and cook for 2-3 hours or until tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Remove from heat and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Easy Smoked Pork Chops
Savor the rich flavor of smoked pork chops with minimal effort. This recipe requires just a few ingredients and some simple prep, yielding tender and juicy results.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in pork chops (1-2 pounds)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the pork chops with olive oil, then sprinkle the sugar-paprika mixture evenly over both sides of the chops.
4. Place the pork chops in the smoker, close the lid, and smoke for 2-3 hours or until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
5. During the last 30 minutes, brush the pork chops with apple cider vinegar.
6. Remove from heat when cooked, let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Applewood Bacon
Transform regular bacon into a rich and savory masterpiece by infusing it with the deep flavors of smoked applewood. Perfect for topping salads, sandwiches, or serving as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thick-cut bacon
– 1 cup applewood chips (smoke flavor)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon pink curing salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and pink curing salt (if using).
3. Lay the bacon slices flat on the smoker rack.
4. Sprinkle the sugar mixture evenly over the bacon.
5. Add applewood chips to the smoker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Smoke the bacon for 4-5 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of smokiness.
7. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Simple Smoked BBQ Beans
Get ready to elevate your barbecue game with this straightforward recipe for tender, smoky beans that pair perfectly with grilled meats and veggies. This easy-to-make dish is a crowd-pleaser at any backyard gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Wood chips for smoking (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine beans, onion, garlic, ketchup, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and cumin.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover the pot and smoke/cook for 6-8 hours, or until beans are tender.
5. During the last hour of cooking, brush with BBQ sauce.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Summary
Discover the world of smoker recipes with these 18 easy and delicious options perfect for beginners! From classic pulled pork to smoked sausage and peppers, there’s something for everyone. Try simple smoked chicken thighs or beef brisket, or get creative with smoked salmon fillet or garlic butter shrimp. For a comforting twist, try basic smoked mac and cheese or smoked BBQ beans. And don’t forget about the meats – from tenderloin to chops, and even meatloaf, there’s a recipe for every palate. Start smoking today and enjoy a world of flavors!
Leave a Reply