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31 Quick Smoker Dishes That Don’t Sacrifice That 12-Hour Flavor

Some say great barbecue takes patience, but not everyone has a whole day to stare at a smoker. These 33 recipes bring bold, smoky flavors to the table without the long wait. From juicy ribs to tender pork, each dish delivers that slow-smoked taste in a fraction of the time. Perfect for busy days, spontaneous cookouts, or anyone who just doesn’t want to wait 12 hours to eat. The smoke works fast—so should dinner.

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

Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

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

When smoky heat meets rich, savory filling, the result is something worth grabbing by the handful. Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers bring just the right kick, wrapped in layers of bold, smoky flavor. The smoke mellows out the heat while keeping every bite packed with flavor. These cook up fast, making them a go-to for last-minute appetizers or weekend cookouts. Good luck stopping at just one.
Get the Recipe: Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

Smoked Berry Crisp

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

Smoke isn’t just for meats. Smoked Berry Crisp takes a classic dessert and layers it with deep, rich flavor that balances perfectly with its natural sweetness. The smoky finish gives it a bold twist that makes it stand out from any standard baked version. Fast to make but big on taste, this is the kind of dessert that surprises in the best way. Once you try it, skipping the smoker just won’t make sense anymore.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Berry Crisp

Grilled Smoked Pork Tenderloin with Mezcal BBQ Sauce

A plate of Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill-Smoked Pork Tenderloin with Mezcal BBQ Sauce.
Grilled Smoked Pork Tenderloin with Mezcal BBQ Sauce. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Smoke and bold flavors come together fast in Grilled Smoked Pork Tenderloin with Mezcal BBQ Sauce. The tenderloin holds onto every bit of smoky richness, with just enough bite from the sauce to make it stand out. This is the kind of dish that tastes like it took all day but comes together in record time. Perfect for weeknights or weekend grilling, it’s the best of both worlds—quick and packed with flavor. The kind of meal that doesn’t need a special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Pork Tenderloin with Mezcal BBQ Sauce

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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.

Cutting down cook time doesn’t mean losing flavor, and Traeger Smoked Chicken Spatchcock proves it. The smoke infuses every inch of the chicken, keeping it juicy while adding deep, bold flavor. The spatchcock method means even cooking and a perfectly crisp finish without the long wait. Whether it’s a weekend barbecue or just dinner, this chicken makes it hard to go back to the usual oven-roasted version. Faster, smokier, and just better.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Chicken Spatchcock

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.

The usual snack mix just got a serious upgrade. Spicy Smoked Chex Mix brings bold, smoky heat to every handful, making it impossible to stop at just one bite. The smoke deepens the flavors while keeping every crunchy piece perfectly balanced between heat and savory goodness. It’s fast, it’s addictive, and it’s made for sharing—though no one will judge if you keep it all to yourself. Store-bought will never taste the same.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Smoked Chex Mix

Grilled Smoked Turkey Breast

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

This isn’t just another turkey dinner. Grilled Smoked Turkey Breast brings a rich, deep flavor that’s anything but boring. The smoke adds just enough depth to make every bite stand out without needing hours in a smoker. Juicy, smoky, and perfect for any meal, this turkey works for sandwiches, salads, or straight from the cutting board. It’s turkey, but better.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Turkey Breast

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.

Slow-cooked flavor without the wait, Grilled Smoked Pulled Pork delivers all the goodness of traditional barbecue in less time. The smoke does its job quickly, giving the pork a rich, deep taste with just the right amount of char. Tender and packed with flavor, this dish works for sandwiches, tacos, or a plate straight from the grill. It’s the kind of pulled pork that makes waiting 12 hours seem unnecessary.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Pulled Pork

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.

Smoke takes a simple side dish and turns it into something that competes with the main course. Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob packs a bold, smoky kick in every bite while keeping that signature sweetness intact. It’s fast, flavorful, and has just the right balance of char and tenderness. Whether it’s a backyard cookout or a weeknight dinner, this corn is anything but ordinary. Good luck going back to plain boiled corn after this.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob

Traeger Smoked Turkey

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

Turkey doesn’t have to be bland or take all day. Traeger Smoked Turkey keeps things juicy while adding layers of smoky richness in every bite. The deep flavor comes together quickly, making it a great option for holidays or just a weekend dinner. Perfect for slicing, shredding, or piling onto sandwiches, this turkey brings more to the table than the usual oven-roasted version. Once you taste the difference, there’s no going back.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Turkey

Smoked Brisket Chili

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

Brisket meets bold flavors in Smoked Brisket Chili, bringing that deep, slow-cooked taste without the wait. The smoke adds a layer of richness that makes this chili stand out from the rest. It’s thick, hearty, and packs just the right amount of kick, making it perfect for game days or cold nights. No need to simmer for hours to get that complex flavor—it’s already built in. One bowl, and regular chili won’t cut it anymore.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brisket Chili

Smoked Beef Tenderloin

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

Rich, smoky, and incredibly tender, Smoked Beef Tenderloin brings steakhouse-level flavor in a fraction of the time. The smoke works fast, enhancing every bite with bold, deep taste while keeping the meat perfectly juicy. Whether sliced thick or thin, it’s a show-stopping main course that doesn’t require an all-day cook. Perfect for special occasions or just a great dinner, this dish proves that smoking meat doesn’t have to be an all-day event. Quick, flavorful, and unforgettable.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Beef Tenderloin

Smoked Queso

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

This isn’t your average cheese dip. Smoked Queso takes a classic and infuses it with layers of bold, smoky flavor in every bite. The result is a rich, creamy dip that pairs perfectly with chips, veggies, or just a spoon if no one’s watching. It comes together fast, making it a go-to for game days, cookouts, or whenever a snack upgrade is needed. One taste, and regular queso just won’t be enough anymore.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Queso

Smoked Shrimp

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

Quick, smoky, and packed with flavor, Smoked Shrimp delivers restaurant-quality taste in a fraction of the time. The smoke enhances their natural sweetness while adding a depth that makes every bite pop. Whether served on skewers, in tacos, or straight from the plate, they’re a fast and flavorful option for any meal. No need to wait hours for that deep smoky taste—it’s done in no time. Once you try them, grilled shrimp won’t be the first choice anymore.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Shrimp

Smoked Blackberry Margarita

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

Smoke isn’t just for food. Smoked Blackberry Margarita brings a bold, smoky depth to a classic drink, balancing sweet and tart flavors with a subtle hint of char. The smoke adds just enough complexity to make each sip stand out, turning an ordinary cocktail into something special. It’s quick to make but leaves a lasting impression, perfect for pairing with grilled dishes or enjoying on its own. One sip, and regular margaritas start feeling a little basic.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Blackberry Margarita

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.

Bold flavors meet rich smokiness in Smoked Chicken Al Pastor, delivering a dish that tastes like it took all day. The smoke enhances its signature seasonings, making every bite packed with deep, layered taste. Whether served in tacos, on a plate, or straight off the skewer, this dish delivers fast, flavorful results. No need for a vertical rotisserie—just big flavor without the hassle. It’s smoky, it’s savory, and it’s ready before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Al Pastor

Smoked Gimlet Cocktail

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

A classic cocktail with a smoky twist, Smoked Gimlet Cocktail brings a deep, rich flavor to a refreshing drink. The smoke blends perfectly with its crisp and bright elements, creating a layered taste that lingers. It’s smooth, bold, and comes together quickly, making it a great choice for any occasion. Whether paired with smoked dishes or enjoyed on its own, this drink stands out. One sip, and regular gimlets will feel like they’re missing something.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Gimlet Cocktail

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.

This massive cut delivers serious smoke-kissed flavor in less time than traditional barbecue. Smoked Thor’s Hammer brings a rich, deep taste with a perfect balance of tender and crispy textures. The smoke works fast, making every bite packed with bold flavor without an all-day commitment. Whether served as a centerpiece or shredded for sandwiches, this dish makes an impact. It’s big, bold, and made for those who want serious flavor without waiting 12 hours.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Thor’s Hammer

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.

Lean but packed with smoky flavor, Smoked Eye of Round delivers that deep, slow-cooked taste in record time. The smoke enhances its natural richness while keeping the meat perfectly tender. Whether sliced thin for sandwiches or served as a main course, it’s a great alternative to traditional smoked cuts. Quick, flavorful, and surprisingly easy, it’s proof that great barbecue doesn’t have to take forever. One bite, and the wait for smoked beef just got a lot shorter.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Eye of Round

Smoked Carver Ham

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

Forget the grocery store version—Smoked Carver Ham brings deep, rich flavor without an all-day cook. The smoke enhances every slice, making it a standout for sandwiches, charcuterie boards, or a full meal. Juicy, smoky, and balanced, this ham holds onto its flavor long after it leaves the smoker. Quick enough for weeknights but impressive enough for special occasions, it’s a serious upgrade. Once you try this, pre-sliced ham won’t be on the menu again.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Carver Ham

Smoked Jalapenos

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

Simple, smoky, and full of heat, Smoked Jalapenos take their natural spice and add a bold depth of flavor. The smoke tames the heat just enough while enhancing their rich, peppery taste. Whether stuffed, sliced, or used as a topping, these pack a serious punch in every bite. Quick to make but full of boldness, they’re an easy way to bring a smoky kick to any meal. Once you try them, fresh jalapenos might seem a little too plain.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Jalapenos

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.

Comfort food meets bold, smoky flavor in Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup, bringing deep, rich taste in less time. The smoke adds layers of depth that make this soup stand out, giving it a slow-cooked flavor without the wait. Whether topped with crunchy tortillas, cheese, or enjoyed as is, every spoonful delivers warmth and smokiness. It’s thick, hearty, and ready before hunger turns into impatience. One bowl in, and canned soup won’t be an option anymore.
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.

Smoky, savory, and built for serious flavor, Smoked Pork Shots deliver boldness in every bite. The smoke infuses the pork with rich depth while keeping the texture perfectly balanced. These cook up quickly but taste like they’ve been slow-smoked for hours, making them a great appetizer or snack. Whether served at cookouts, game nights, or just because, they disappear fast. Once they hit the table, they won’t last long.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pork Shots

Smoked Tomatoes

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

Smoke brings out the best in Smoked Tomatoes, turning them into a rich, bold addition to any dish. Their natural sweetness deepens while the smoky finish adds layers of complexity. Whether used in sauces, salads, or eaten on their own, they cook up fast but pack serious flavor. Quick to prepare but with that slow-smoked depth, they’re an easy way to bring big taste to any meal. Once you try them, raw tomatoes won’t be as exciting.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Tomatoes

Smoked Ribeye Roast

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

Big, bold, and packed with deep flavor, Smoked Ribeye Roast delivers steakhouse-quality taste in a fraction of the time. The smoke enhances its natural richness, making every bite melt-in-your-mouth tender. Whether sliced thick for a main course or served up as leftovers, this dish brings serious flavor without the long wait. It’s the kind of meal that turns an ordinary dinner into something special. Once you try it, plain roasted ribeye won’t be enough.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Ribeye Roast

Smoked Lil Smokies

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

Classic party snacks just got a major upgrade with Smoked Lil Smokies. The smoke adds a deep, rich flavor to every bite, making these an easy go-to for quick appetizers. They cook up fast but still bring that slow-smoked taste, making them perfect for gatherings or last-minute snacks. Whether served on their own or with dips, they disappear quickly. Once you start eating them, stopping might not be an option.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Lil Smokies

Smoked Lamb Chops

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

Smoke takes Smoked Lamb Chops to the next level, adding deep flavor while keeping them perfectly tender. The rich taste builds fast, bringing out their natural boldness without overpowering. Quick to cook but loaded with smoky depth, these chops are great for any meal that needs a serious upgrade. Whether grilled for a weekend dinner or served at a special occasion, they deliver every time. One bite, and the usual lamb chops won’t cut it anymore.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Lamb Chops

Smoked Pulled Pork

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

Deep, smoky flavor without the long wait makes Smoked Pulled Pork a must-try. The smoke builds a rich taste quickly, giving that slow-cooked experience without the full-day commitment. Whether piled on sandwiches, tacos, or eaten straight off the tray, it’s juicy and packed with boldness. No need to wake up at dawn to get perfect pulled pork. Once you try this, the idea of waiting 12 hours for barbecue seems unnecessary.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pulled Pork

Smoked Cream Cheese

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

Simple but packed with bold flavor, Smoked Cream Cheese turns an ordinary spread into something worth talking about. The smoke adds a deep, rich element that blends perfectly with its smooth texture. Whether served with crackers, bagels, or straight from the knife, it’s an easy way to add smoky goodness to any snack. Quick to make but full of flavor, it’s great for parties or just an upgraded breakfast. Once you taste it, plain cream cheese won’t be as exciting.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cream Cheese

Smoked Shotgun Shells

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

Smoky, savory, and packed with flavor, Smoked Shotgun Shells deliver big taste in a short amount of time. The smoke works fast, infusing each bite with deep richness while keeping the texture perfect. They’re hearty, satisfying, and great for cookouts, game nights, or any time bold flavors are needed. Quick to disappear but easy to make, these are guaranteed to be a favorite. Once they hit the table, they won’t last long.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Shotgun Shells

Smoked Tomato Soup with Mascarpone

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

A classic comfort dish gets a smoky twist in Smoked Tomato Soup with Mascarpone. The smoke enhances the tomatoes’ natural richness, adding depth to every spoonful. Creamy, smooth, and full of bold flavors, this soup is a step above the usual canned version. Whether paired with grilled cheese or enjoyed on its own, it’s quick to make but leaves a lasting impression. One bowl, and plain tomato soup won’t be enough anymore.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Tomato Soup with Mascarpone

Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

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

The combination of smoke and brine makes these wings a must-try. Smoked Dill Pickle Wings bring bold flavor with a balance of tang and rich smokiness in every bite. They cook up fast but still deliver that deep, developed taste usually reserved for slow-smoked meats. Perfect for game days, gatherings, or anyone who appreciates a good wing without the long wait. Serve them up, and suddenly, the store-bought version just won’t cut it anymore.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

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