The Best Pellet Smoker Recipes : Delicious Dishes for Every Occasion

Pellet smokers offer the perfect balance of convenience and smoky flavor, making them a top choice for both beginners and BBQ pros. With automatic temperature control and wood pellet fuel, they ensure consistently delicious results for any occasion.

This post features some of the best pellet smoker recipes to elevate your outdoor cooking. If you're preparing a backyard feast or a simple family dinner, these recipes will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Why Choose a Pellet Smoker?

Pellet smokers have gained popularity because of their ease of use and ability to impart rich, smoky flavors. Here are a few reasons why they are a fantastic choice for outdoor cooking:

• Consistent Temperature Control: Unlike traditional smokers, pellet smokers maintain steady heat, reducing the need for constant monitoring.

• Wood-Fired Flavor: The variety of wood pellets available allows for different flavor profiles, enhancing meats, seafood, and even vegetables.

• Versatility: Pellet smokers can grill, roast, bake, and smoke, making them a multi-functional cooking appliance.

• Ease of Use: With automated pellet feeding and digital controls, even beginners can achieve professional-level results.

Recipe 1: Classic Smoked Brisket

Brisket is a BBQ staple, and a pellet smoker makes it easier than ever to achieve that perfect, tender, and smoky masterpiece.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole beef brisket (10-12 lbs)

• 1/4 cup yellow mustard (for binding)

• 1/4 cup kosher salt

• 1/4 cup coarse black pepper

• 2 tbsp garlic powder

• 2 tbsp onion powder

• Wood pellets (oak or hickory for a strong smoky flavor)

Instructions:

1. Prep the Brisket: Trim excess fat, leaving about 1/4 inch for moisture retention. Lightly coat the surface with mustard to help the seasoning adhere better.

2. Brisket Prep: Create a seasoning blend with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub it generously over the entire brisket for a flavorful crust.  

3. Get the Smoker Ready: Heat your pellet smoker to 225°F, opting for oak or hickory pellets to enhance the smoky aroma.  

4. Low & Slow Smoking: Position the brisket with the fat side facing up in the smoker. Let it cook undisturbed for 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F.

5. Wrap and Continue Cooking: Wrap the brisket tightly in butcher paper or aluminum foil. Return to the smoker and cook until the internal temperature reaches 200-205°F (about 6 more hours).

6. Rest and Serve: Let the brisket rest for at least an hour before slicing against the grain.

7. Tip: Using a water pan in the smoker can help maintain moisture and prevent the brisket from drying out.

Recipe 2: Smoked Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

For those who prefer poultry, these honey garlic chicken thighs offer a sweet and savory flavor with a subtle smoky finish.

Ingredients:

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 2 tbsp smoked paprika

• 1 tbsp garlic powder

• 1 tbsp onion powder

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 cup honey

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• Wood pellets (cherry or apple for a mild, fruity smoke)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Smoker: Set your pellet smoker to 275°F.

2. Season the Chicken: Mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the mixture over the chicken thighs.

3. Smoke the Chicken: Place the thighs skin-side up in the smoker. Smoke for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

4. Prepare Honey Garlic Glaze: In a small saucepan, heat honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar until combined.

5. Glaze the Chicken: Brush the honey garlic glaze over the thighs and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.

6. Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes to seal in the juices, then slice and serve for the perfect bite.

7. Tip: For crispy skin, finish the chicken on high heat (around 400°F) for the last few minutes.

Recipe 3: Smoked Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese gets an irresistible upgrade with a touch of smoke, creating a creamy, cheesy dish that pairs perfectly with any BBQ spread.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni

• 4 tbsp butter

• 4 tbsp flour

• 3 cups whole milk

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded gouda cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

• Wood pellets (pecan or cherry for a mild, nutty flavor)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Smoker: Set your pellet smoker to 225°F.

2. Cook Pasta: Boil macaroni according to package instructions and drain.

3. Make Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Once thickened, add cheeses, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

4. Combine and Transfer: Mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce and pour into a greased cast-iron skillet.

5. Smoke the Mac and Cheese: Place the skillet in the smoker and cook for 45 minutes to an hour.

6. Crispy Topping (Optional): Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top in the last 10 minutes of smoking for added crunch.

7. Tip: Experiment with different cheese combinations to customize the flavor.

Tips and Tricks for Pellet Smoking

Choose the Right Pellets: Different wood pellets provide different flavors. Hickory and oak are great for bold meats like brisket, while fruitwoods like apple and cherry complement poultry and pork.

Maintain Consistent Temperature: Pellet smokers offer great temperature control, but always use a reliable meat thermometer to ensure accurate doneness.

Keep it Clean: Regularly clean out the ash and grease to prevent flare-ups and maintain performance.

Rest Your Meat: Let meat rest after smoking to allow juices to redistribute, resulting in more flavorful bites.

Experiment and Have Fun: Try blending wood pellets for unique flavors and get creative with seasonings and marinades.

 

Conclusion

A pellet smoker opens up a world of delicious possibilities, from perfectly smoked brisket to indulgent smoked mac and cheese. With the right techniques, wood pellet choices, and a little patience, you can master the art of outdoor cooking and impress your family and friends with mouthwatering meals.

To take your outdoor cooking experience to the next level, make sure you have the best equipment and accessories. At Outdoor Kitchen Outlet, we offer top-quality pellet smokers, grilling tools, and everything you need to create the ultimate backyard setup. Call us today at (888) 667-4986 to find the perfect addition to your outdoor kitchen!