Home » Trending » 31 Backyard Smoker Recipes That Taste Like You’ve Been Cooking All Day Because You Have

31 Backyard Smoker Recipes That Taste Like You’ve Been Cooking All Day Because You Have

Smoking meat in the backyard isn’t just cooking—it’s a slow, deliberate process that turns simple ingredients into something worth bragging about. These 31 backyard smoker recipes deliver flavors that taste like you’ve been tending the fire all day, even if you sneaked in a nap or two. Perfect for anyone who wants that deep, smoky taste without actually camping out all afternoon. Your neighbors will wonder how you pulled it off—just don’t tell them it was mostly patience and a playlist.

Smoked tomatoes in a dish with grilled bread.
Smoked Tomatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

Smoked chicken wings with pickles on a black plate.
Smoked Dill Pickle Wings. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Wings get a smoky makeover with Smoked Dill Pickle Wings that show you didn’t just toss something on the grill. This recipe tastes like hours of attention without any of the babysitting. It’s a snack that balances a little tang with smoke for a straightforward backyard hit. These wings fit perfectly when you want to bring something unexpected but still keep it casual and shareable.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

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

When you want a snack that packs some punch, Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers fit the bill without trying too hard. It’s a recipe that carries enough heat and smoke to keep things lively but doesn’t overwhelm your palate. These poppers work great for crowd-pleasing appetizers or just a smoky bite to spice up your smoker rotation. Perfect for anyone who likes flavor with a bit of edge.
Get the Recipe: Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

The Backyard Table

An e-book titled "The Backyard Table: Recipes for Summer Cookouts" by Chef Jenn Allen is displayed on a tablet, featuring a bowl of potato salad on the cover.

Get it NOW and level up your outdoor dining! The Backyard Table - Recipes for Summer Cookouts features 34 of Chef Jenn's BEST recipes for outdoor eating and entertaining.

You'll get ad-free recipes like:

  • Grilled Corn Guacamole
  • Grilled French Onion Burgers
  • Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
  • Blueberry Grunt
  • and so many more!

Every recipe is created, tested and loved by Chef Jenn and her family - there's no AI here!

Get it now, at a special introductory price of $7.99. That's over 50 pages of foodie love at your fingertips!

Buy Now!

Spicy Smoked Chex Mix

Two bowls of snack mix with pretzels and cereal on a wooden table, accompanied by decorative balls and a colorful napkin.
Spicy Smoked Chex Mix. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a snack that brings the party, Spicy Smoked Chex Mix delivers straightforward smoky flavor with a bit of a kick. This mix doesn’t need to be complicated to make a statement. It’s a solid choice for game days or casual hangouts where you want something easy but satisfying. You’ll find this recipe fits right in whether you’re passing it around or munching solo.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Smoked Chex Mix

Smoked Brisket Chili

Two bowls of smoked brisket chili, tomatoes, and bread.
Smoked Brisket Chili. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A pot of Smoked Brisket Chili is what you reach for when you want comfort with a smoky twist that feels like you’ve been cooking all day. It’s a dish that stands on its own for a crowd or cozy meal. This chili blends smoky meat with hearty warmth without being heavy or over the top. Great for when you want something that tastes like effort but doesn’t need extra attention.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brisket Chili

Smoked Ribeye Roast

Sliced smoked ribeye beef on a cutting board.
Smoked Ribeye Roast. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When it’s time for a roast that makes a statement, Smoked Ribeye Roast comes through with solid smoky flavor and a no-nonsense approach. This recipe gives you a straightforward dinner that feels like a special occasion without all the fuss. It works well for casual meals or celebrations where you want something meaty and smoky without complications. Reliable and satisfying every time.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Ribeye Roast

Smoked Pulled Pork

Two cast iron skillets with smoked pulled pork in them.
Smoked Pulled Pork. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Everyone knows Smoked Pulled Pork is a backyard staple for a reason. This recipe hits that perfect balance of smoky, tender, and juicy that feels like you’ve been slow-cooking all afternoon. It’s great for sandwiches, plates, or feeding a crowd without extra stress. A classic that proves sometimes simple is best when done right on a smoker.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pulled Pork

Traeger Smoked Chicken Spatchcock

Roasted chicken on a slate board with carving knife and fork.
Traeger Smoked Chicken Spatchcock. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When chicken takes center stage, Traeger Smoked Chicken Spatchcock delivers smoky flavor without trying to be fancy. It’s a recipe that brings a solid, rich smoky profile and lets the meat speak for itself. This dish fits perfectly when you want something familiar with a smoky twist, easy to serve and hard to forget. A great pick for any smoker session.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Chicken Spatchcock

Traeger Smoked Turkey

A smoked turkey on a wooden cutting board.
Traeger Smoked Turkey. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Turkey gets the smoker treatment in Traeger Smoked Turkey, offering a straightforward smoky flavor that’s impressive without complication. It works well for holidays or weekends when you want something substantial but not complicated. This recipe has the kind of flavor that sticks around but doesn’t demand all your attention. Perfect for those looking for a reliable smoked bird.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Turkey

Smoked Shrimp

Two pans of smoked shrimp on a table.
Smoked Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Quick and smoky, Smoked Shrimp brings a punch of flavor that fits great as an appetizer or part of a larger meal. This recipe keeps it simple while packing enough smoke to remind you it’s been on the smoker. It’s a solid choice when you want to offer something different but without any hassle or guesswork. Easygoing and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Shrimp

Grilled Smoked Turkey Breast

Sliced roasted turkey breast arranged on a white plate.
Grilled Smoked Turkey Breast. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

For turkey lovers looking for something with a smoky edge, Grilled Smoked Turkey Breast is a no-fuss option that delivers consistent flavor. It’s a recipe that balances smoky richness with approachability, making it perfect for slicing up for sandwiches or serving alongside sides. This dish fits right in whether it’s a casual meal or part of a bigger spread.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Turkey Breast

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.

Smoked Chicken Al Pastor adds a smoky twist to a classic that doesn’t overreach but still makes an impression. This recipe carries enough flavor complexity to keep things interesting without overwhelming. It’s a great pick for when you want a smoky meal with a bit of character that doesn’t require much fuss. Works well for casual or more adventurous eaters alike.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Al Pastor

Smoked Lil Smokies

A bowl of smoked lil smokies with sauce and dipping sauce.
Smoked Lil Smokies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Small but mighty, Smoked Lil Smokies bring smoky flavor in bite-sized form that works perfectly for snacks or adding to other dishes. This recipe doesn’t try to be fancy but nails smoky satisfaction every time. It’s an easy go-to when you want something crowd-friendly that fits right into your smoker lineup. Simple and effective for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Lil Smokies

Smoked Shotgun Shells

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

Smoked Shotgun Shells offer a smoky snack that’s filling enough to hold up at parties or as a side. This recipe hits a nice balance of smoky flavor with enough substance to keep you satisfied without being heavy. It’s a solid choice when you want a smoky bite that works well with other backyard favorites. Reliable and crowd-pleasing.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Shotgun Shells

Smoked Lamb Chops

Smoked lamb chops on a white plate with a green napkin.
Smoked Lamb Chops. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When lamb gets the smoker treatment, Smoked Lamb Chops deliver a clean, smoky flavor that feels special without complication. This recipe fits well for dinners where you want to impress but keep things straightforward. It’s a solid pick for anyone looking to add a smoky option that still feels familiar and approachable.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Lamb Chops

Smoked Queso

Smoked queso in a black pot.
Smoked Queso. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Queso makes a perfect smoky dip that’s creamy and inviting without any extra fuss. This recipe is crowd-pleasing and works well as a starter or side. It strikes a good balance between smoky flavor and smooth texture, making it a go-to for parties or casual meals. You can count on this one to fit in anywhere you want a warm, smoky snack.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Queso

Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup

Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup in two white bowls with garnishes nearby.
Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Soup gets smoky with Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup offering warmth and depth that feels like a day’s worth of effort without all the hassle. It’s a comforting, rich option that’s perfect for cooler days or when you want a filling, smoky dish. This recipe keeps things approachable while delivering on flavor that sticks with you. Great for any smoker lineup.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup

Smoked Pork Shots

Smoked pork shots in a skillet with basil and tomatoes.
Smoked Pork Shots. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bite-sized and smoky, Smoked Pork Shots bring a punchy snack that’s easy to serve and even easier to enjoy. This recipe fits well as an appetizer or quick bite when you want smoky flavor without a lot of fuss. It’s reliable and satisfying, making it a go-to for parties or casual backyard hangs. Perfect when you want something smoky and compact.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pork Shots

Traeger Smoked Leg of Lamb

Whole cooked leg of lamb on a board with a knife.
Traeger Smoked Leg of Lamb. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a hearty, smoky lamb option, Traeger Smoked Leg of Lamb offers a straightforward recipe that feels special without being complicated. It’s a solid choice for dinners when you want something impressive but manageable. The smoke comes through clearly without overshadowing, making this a balanced and dependable pick for any smoker.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Leg of Lamb

Smoked Carver Ham

Smoked sliced ham on a cutting board.
Smoked Carver Ham. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Carver Ham brings a smoky touch to a classic that’s dependable and easy to serve. This recipe hits the right notes for flavor and balance without adding fuss. It’s great for casual meals or special occasions when you want something hearty and smoky without complications. A solid staple in any smoker rotation.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Carver Ham

Smoked Blackberry Margarita

Smoked Blackberry Margarita with smoke coming out the top of the glass.
Smoked Blackberry Margarita. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cocktails meet smoke in Smoked Blackberry Margarita, bringing something different but approachable to your backyard bar. This recipe balances smoky notes with refreshing flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser without being too complicated. Perfect for sipping alongside smoky dishes or standing on its own as a backyard refreshment with a twist.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Blackberry Margarita

Grilled Smoked Pulled Pork

Shredded Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill Smoked Pulled Pork on a white plate.
Grilled Smoked Pulled Pork. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Combining smoky richness with a grilled touch, Grilled Smoked Pulled Pork is a crowd-pleaser that’s hearty without fuss. This recipe works for casual meals or party sandwiches where you want that classic pulled pork vibe with a bit of extra depth. It’s reliable, flavorful, and fits well in any backyard smoker session.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Pulled Pork

Smoked Thor’s Hammer

A large roasted meat shank on a bone, displayed upright in a skillet surrounded by nachos, with bowls of lime wedges and sauce nearby.
Smoked Thor’s Hammer. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you want bold flavor without extra drama, Smoked Thor’s Hammer delivers smoky power in a manageable package. This recipe stands out for its robust taste but keeps things approachable. It’s great for backyard meals where you want something memorable and satisfying without overcomplicating. A strong choice when you want a smoky knockout.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Thor’s Hammer

Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob

Three ears of husked corn were arranged on a dark slate plate.
Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob brings smoky flavor to a classic side without any fuss. This recipe is simple but effective, adding a layer of complexity that pairs well with just about anything. It’s a dependable addition to any smoker meal and a great way to add some smoke without making it complicated.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob

Smoked Jalapenos

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

If you want a smoky snack with a bit of heat, Smoked Jalapenos fit the bill. This recipe keeps it straightforward and smoky while packing a kick. It’s perfect for adding spice to your backyard smoker lineup without being overwhelming. A great way to bring some smoky heat without fuss or complication.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Jalapenos

Smoked Berry Crisp

A spoon lifts a portion of Smoked Berry Crisp from a bowl.
Smoked Berry Crisp. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Smoked Berry Crisp offers smoky flavor in dessert form without extra fuss. This recipe brings a warm, comforting finish to any smoker meal. It’s approachable and satisfying, adding a touch of smoky complexity that feels right after a day on the smoker. Perfect for when you want something sweet but not heavy.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Berry Crisp

Smoked Gimlet Cocktail

Two lime gimlets with smoke on top.
Smoked Gimlet Cocktail. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cocktails get smoky with Smoked Gimlet Cocktail, which balances smoke and citrus for an easygoing drink. This recipe is straightforward and refreshing, perfect for sipping alongside smoky dishes. It fits the backyard vibe without complicating your drink options, offering something different but still approachable.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Gimlet Cocktail

Smoked Cream Cheese

Two slices of smoked cream cheese on a white plate.
Smoked Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Cream Cheese takes a simple staple and gives it a smoky edge that makes a big difference without any extra fuss. This recipe is a perfect companion for snacks or spreads where you want a subtle smoky flavor to shine through. It works great for mixing with other dishes or enjoying on its own when you want something easy but with character. Smoky yet approachable, it fits any smoker lineup.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cream Cheese

Smoked Eye of Round

A whole and sliced smoked eye of round with on a wooden cutting board.
Smoked Eye of Round. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you want a lean, smoky roast that feels like a day of work but doesn’t require non-stop attention, Smoked Eye of Round fits right in. This recipe brings solid smoky flavor and a straightforward profile that’s satisfying without being complicated. It’s a dependable choice for dinners where you want something hearty but not heavy. Perfect for anyone who appreciates smoky meat done right.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Eye of Round

Smoked Beef Tenderloin

A sliced smoked beef tenderloin on a white plate.
Smoked Beef Tenderloin. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Beef Tenderloin offers a smoky twist on a classic cut that’s both impressive and manageable. This recipe balances rich smoky flavor with tenderness, making it great for special occasions or backyard meals that feel elevated without extra fuss. It’s a reliable pick when you want a straightforward recipe that tastes like you spent all day on it—without actually spending all day.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Beef Tenderloin

Smoked Tomato Soup with Mascarpone

Two bowls of soup on the counter.
Smoked Tomato Soup with Mascarpone. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a smoky twist on a comforting classic, Smoked Tomato Soup with Mascarpone brings warmth and depth that feels like it was simmered forever. This recipe blends smoky notes with creamy smoothness to create a bowl that’s both filling and approachable. It’s a smart choice when you want a smoky soup that doesn’t overwhelm but still stands out at the table. Great for cooler days or any smoker meal.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Tomato Soup with Mascarpone

Smoked Tomatoes

Smoked tomatoes in a dish with grilled bread.
Smoked Tomatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Simple and smoky, Smoked Tomatoes add a layer of flavor that can transform any dish without extra effort. This recipe is versatile, working well as a side, topping, or ingredient in other meals. It’s an easy way to add a smoky kick that feels like you’ve been tending the smoker all day, even if you haven’t. Perfect for anyone who wants smoky flavor without complication.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Tomatoes

By

Leave a Comment