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Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill and bring out the best flavors with the Traeger.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or simply enjoying a meal with family, Traeger’s wood-fired cooking creates mouthwatering dishes that are full of smoky, tender, and rich flavors.
From juicy steaks and succulent ribs to light, flavorful vegetables, the Traeger opens up a world of grilling possibilities.
With these 21+ summer Traeger recipes, you’ll discover how easy it is to elevate your summer cooking with the perfect balance of smoky goodness and vibrant flavors.
21+ Irresistible Summer Traeger Recipes to Transform Your BBQ

With these 21+ summer Traeger recipes, you’ll have a diverse and delicious array of dishes to prepare for any summer occasion.
From the first smoky bite of a grilled steak to the sweet, tender layers of smoked vegetables, each recipe offers a unique way to make the most of your Traeger.
Whether you’re an experienced griller or just starting out, these recipes will inspire your summer cooking and make your next BBQ a resounding success.
Fire up your Traeger and let the summer flavors shine!
Grilled Peach Glazed Pork Chops
Juicy pork chops meet the sweetness of summer with this Grilled Peach Glazed Pork Chops recipe, a must-try for Traeger fans craving a bold fusion of smoky and fruity flavors.
As the chops sizzle on the grill, the scent of caramelized peach glaze rises, mingling with hints of wood-fired perfection.
The pork develops a beautiful crust while staying tender inside, offering a luscious bite that balances sweet, savory, and smoky elements.
Whether served alongside grilled vegetables or atop a bed of wild rice, this dish easily steals the show at any backyard gathering.
Smoked Beer Can Chicken
Nothing screams summer cookout like Smoked Beer Can Chicken, where crispy skin and fall-apart meat collide under a cloud of savory smoke.
The beer steams from within, infusing the chicken with irresistible moisture and subtle malty notes.
The outer skin crackles with flavor, kissed by paprika, garlic, and herbs, creating a beautiful contrast to the juicy interior.
This Traeger classic can be the star of your BBQ table or paired with potato salad and slaw for a complete feast.
Cedar Plank Salmon
With its delicate texture and woodsy aroma, Cedar Plank Salmon is a summer grilling staple that captures the soul of outdoor cooking.
The salmon is laid over a soaked cedar plank, allowing the smoke to penetrate gently and enrich the natural oils of the fish.
Hints of lemon, dill, and brown sugar caramelize on top, forming a sweet-savory crust that gives each forkful a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Ideal on its own or served with a bright quinoa salad, this dish is a celebration of simplicity and flavor.
Smoked Elote
Bring the vibrant street food of Mexico to your backyard with Smoked Elote, a smoky twist on the classic grilled corn.
The Traeger grill gives the corn a rich, charred flavor, while the creamy coating of mayo, cotija cheese, and chili powder creates a spicy, tangy contrast.
Each bite explodes with layers of taste and texture—from the juicy kernels to the zesty lime finish.
It’s a perfect side dish, but with its bold personality, it easily holds its own as a snack or appetizer at any summer gathering.
Traeger Smoked Shrimp Skewers
Quick to cook and bursting with flavor, Traeger Smoked Shrimp Skewers are ideal for light summer meals with gourmet appeal.
The shrimp are marinated in garlic, lemon, and herbs, then smoked to perfection, locking in a juicy, tender texture.
Their natural sweetness is heightened by the wood smoke, making every bite feel like a seaside escape.
Serve over a fresh salad or with grilled bread for a satisfying and versatile dish that fits any occasion.
BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
Smoky, tangy, and irresistibly tender, BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders are the heart of any summer cookout.
After hours on the Traeger, the pork becomes fall-apart soft, soaked in layers of hickory smoke and zesty BBQ sauce.
Tucked into soft brioche buns and topped with crunchy slaw, these sliders offer the perfect balance of texture and taste.
They’re ideal as the centerpiece of a casual meal or served as shareable bites at your next outdoor party.
Smoked Ribs
Transform your summer cookout with Smoked Ribs, where tender, smoky meat effortlessly falls off the bone.
The Traeger’s wood-fired heat infuses the ribs with deep, smoky flavor, while a tangy glaze caramelizes beautifully over the surface.
Each bite offers a perfect balance of spice and sweetness, creating a mouthwatering experience.
Whether served with a side of mashed potatoes or coleslaw, these ribs are a showstopper that elevate any barbecue.
Traeger Chicken Wings
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, Traeger Chicken Wings are the ultimate snack for any occasion.
The smoky flavors from the Traeger are enhanced by a zesty marinade, resulting in wings that have just the right amount of kick.
Paired with a cooling ranch or blue cheese dip, these wings are perfect for game day, family gatherings, or casual evenings.
The smoky aroma alone will draw everyone to the grill for a taste of crispy perfection.
Smoked Sausages
With a burst of smoky flavor, Smoked Sausages are the perfect summer treat for grilling enthusiasts.
The sausages cook to juicy perfection on the Traeger, with each bite offering a satisfying snap and a rich, smoky aroma.
Seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs, they are both flavorful and versatile, ideal on their own or as a topping for grilled peppers and onions.
These sausages can easily be a star in your summer BBQ lineup or served alongside a refreshing potato salad.
Grilled Vegetables
Celebrate the season with Grilled Vegetables, a simple yet flavorful dish that bursts with the essence of summer.
The Traeger grill perfectly chars zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, enhancing their natural sweetness while adding a smoky depth.
Each vegetable is kissed with a touch of olive oil and herbs, offering a satisfying texture and a medley of rich flavors.
These vegetables make an excellent side dish to any main course or can be enjoyed as a healthy, flavorful snack on their own.
Traeger Brisket
For true BBQ aficionados, Traeger Brisket is a recipe that brings the flavor of Texas right to your backyard.
Slow-cooked on the Traeger, the brisket turns tender and juicy, with a smoky bark forming on the outside that locks in the flavors.
The deep, savory aroma is enough to make anyone’s mouth water, and each bite melts in your mouth, offering a perfect balance of spices and tenderness.
Served with pickles and bread, this brisket will be the centerpiece of any summer feast.
Smoked Baked Potatoes
Take your side dishes to the next level with Smoked Baked Potatoes, where crispy, smoky skins surround a fluffy interior.
These potatoes are baked on the Traeger, infusing them with a wood-fired flavor that elevates their natural earthiness.
Topped with sour cream, cheese, and chives, each bite is a creamy, smoky indulgence.
These potatoes can stand alone as a satisfying side dish or be loaded up with toppings for a full meal experience.
Smoked Tri-Tip
For a bold, smoky flavor, try Smoked Tri-Tip, where the perfect balance of seasoning and wood-fired heat creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
The Traeger imparts a subtle smokiness that enhances the beef’s natural richness, while the exterior crisps up beautifully.
The tri-tip can be served as a standalone main dish or sliced thinly for sandwiches or wraps.
Its savory flavor pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, making it a versatile option for any summer meal.
Grilled Shrimp Tacos
Light, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, Grilled Shrimp Tacos are a perfect Traeger recipe for sunny days.
The shrimp is seasoned with a zesty blend of chili and lime, then grilled to perfection, offering a slight char while staying juicy and tender.
Wrapped in a warm tortilla with fresh toppings like avocado, cilantro, and a drizzle of crema, these tacos are bursting with vibrant flavors.
Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, they’re sure to impress guests at your next summer gathering.
Smoked Beef Tenderloin
Indulge in the luxurious taste of Smoked Beef Tenderloin, a recipe that takes a cut of meat and turns it into something extraordinary.
The beef is slow-cooked on the Traeger, absorbing all the smoky flavor, while maintaining its tenderness and juiciness.
With a seasoning crust that locks in all the savory goodness, this tenderloin is a showstopper at any summer celebration.
Serve with a rich red wine sauce and roasted potatoes for a meal that feels both indulgent and rustic.
Grilled Asparagus
Simple yet packed with flavor, Grilled Asparagus on the Traeger brings out the vegetable’s natural sweetness while adding a layer of smoky depth.
Drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with sea salt, the asparagus gets perfectly charred, leaving each stalk tender and flavorful.
Whether served as a side dish to complement a grilled steak or enjoyed on its own with a squeeze of lemon, this dish is an easy and fresh option for your summer cookout.
The smoky aroma alone will make your guests eager to dig in.
Smoked Meatballs
Rich, smoky, and packed with flavor, Smoked Meatballs offer a unique twist on a classic favorite.
The Traeger elevates these meatballs with its wood-fired heat, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the interior juicy and tender.
Toss them in marinara sauce or serve them on their own with a side of garlic bread for an irresistible treat.
These meatballs make a perfect appetizer or can be served as a hearty main course with a side of pasta.
Traeger Pizza
For pizza lovers, Traeger Pizza offers a new way to enjoy this classic dish, with a crispy, smoky crust that you can’t get from a traditional oven.
The Traeger’s wood-fired heat bakes the pizza to perfection, creating a golden, crispy base that complements your favorite toppings.
From classic margherita to more adventurous combinations like BBQ chicken or smoked sausage, this recipe allows you to customize each pizza to your taste.
Serve it at your next gathering for a fun, interactive meal that everyone can enjoy.
Smoked Salmon
For a fresh, flavorful twist on classic seafood, Smoked Salmon brings a delicate smoky flavor that enhances the fish’s natural richness.
The Traeger infuses the salmon with a subtle wood-fired essence, keeping it tender and moist with each bite.
Whether served as an appetizer with crackers and cream cheese or as part of a salad, this dish is an easy yet impressive addition to your summer menu.
Its vibrant flavor and flaky texture will make it a crowd favorite every time.
Grilled Steak
A juicy, smoky Grilled Steak cooked to perfection on the Traeger is a surefire way to impress at your next BBQ.
The smoky aroma of the wood blends beautifully with the savory flavors of the steak, creating a crusted exterior that locks in the juicy tenderness within.
Whether you prefer your steak rare or well-done, the Traeger allows for a consistent, mouthwatering finish that will elevate any side dish you pair it with, from mashed potatoes to a fresh garden salad.
BBQ Chicken Thighs
Flavor-packed and juicy, BBQ Chicken Thighs on the Traeger are a summer essential.
The skin crisps up to perfection, while the meat remains tender and flavorful, infused with a smoky tang from the wood pellets.
Slathered in your favorite BBQ sauce, these thighs can be served on their own or with a side of grilled corn and coleslaw.
The perfect balance of smokiness and sweetness makes this dish a hit at any outdoor event.
Smoked Mac and Cheese
Comfort food gets a smoky upgrade with Smoked Mac and Cheese.
The creamy, cheesy pasta is cooked low and slow on the Traeger, absorbing all the smoky goodness while maintaining its decadent richness.
Topped with a crunchy breadcrumb crust, this dish is a savory side or indulgent main course, perfect for pairing with smoked meats or enjoying on its own.
The smoky flavor will leave everyone coming back for more.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Simple, sweet, and smoky, Grilled Corn on the Cob is a must-have for any summer gathering.
The husks char beautifully on the Traeger, infusing the kernels with a subtle wood smoke that enhances their natural sweetness.
Topped with butter and a sprinkle of sea salt, this easy-to-make dish pairs well with grilled meats or is perfect on its own for a quick, satisfying snack.
The smoky aroma and tender kernels make each bite a true summer treat.
Smoked Chicken Breasts
Deliciously smoky and perfectly juicy, Smoked Chicken Breasts are a healthy and flavorful choice for your Traeger.
The chicken soaks up the wood-fired smoke while retaining its moisture, making each bite incredibly tender.
Seasoned with a mix of herbs and spices, this dish can be served on its own or sliced for salads, wraps, or sandwiches.
It’s versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides, from grilled vegetables to creamy mashed potatoes.
Conclusion
Grilling with a Traeger not only enhances the flavors of your summer meals but also allows you to experiment with new tastes and textures.
These 21+ summer Traeger recipes bring out the best in each ingredient, whether it’s the rich smokiness of a slow-cooked brisket or the zesty crunch of grilled veggies.
Your summer gatherings will never be the same, as you explore creative ways to enjoy the great outdoors with friends and family.
Ready to take your grilling game to the next level? Let these recipes guide you to unforgettable summer meals.