Get ready to elevate your barbecue game with these mouthwatering Traeger brisket recipes! When it comes to low-and-slow cooking, there’s no better cut of meat than a tender and juicy brisket. Whether you’re a pitmaster or just starting out on your smoking journey, these 20 smoky Traeger brisket recipes are sure to impress. From classic Texas-style smoked brisket to spicy chipotle and bourbon-glazed variations, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll explore the art of cooking perfect brisket using the Traeger pellet grill. You’ll learn how to achieve that tender, fall-apart texture and rich, smoky flavor that’s perfect for serving up at your next backyard barbecue or family gathering.
So grab your apron and get ready to dig in! In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these recipes, including step-by-step instructions and mouthwatering photos. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, you won’t want to miss these amazing Traeger brisket recipes.
Classic Texas-Style Smoked Brisket
Smoky, tender, and full of flavor, this classic Texas-style smoked brisket is a staple of Southern barbecue. With a dry rub and low-and-slow smoking, you’ll be rewarded with a mouthwatering, fall-apart texture that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole beef brisket (10-12 pounds)
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons black pepper
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 cup wood chips (post oak or a blend)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together kosher salt, brown sugar, black pepper, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika.
3. Apply the dry rub evenly to both sides of the brisket, making sure it’s fully covered.
4. Place the brisket in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 10-12 hours or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
6. Wrap the brisket tightly in foil and return to smoker for an additional 2 hours.
7. Rest the brisket for 30 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 10-12 hours
Traeger Coffee-Rubbed Brisket
Elevate your brisket game with this unique recipe that combines the deep flavors of coffee and spices for a truly unforgettable BBQ experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole brisket (5-7 pounds)
– 1/2 cup Traeger Coffee Rub
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger grill to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the coffee rub, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Trim any excess fat from the brisket, if necessary.
4. Generously apply the coffee rub mixture to both sides of the brisket.
5. Place the brisket in the Traeger grill, fat side up.
6. Cook for 8-10 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
7. Let the brisket rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Honey Garlic Smoked Brisket
Smoking brisket is a labor of love, but the end result is well worth the effort. This recipe combines the rich flavors of honey and garlic with the deep smokiness of slow-cooked brisket.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole brisket (5-6 lbs), trimmed of excess fat
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the brisket, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place brisket in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 10 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
6. Wrap brisket tightly in foil and continue smoking for an additional 2-3 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of tenderness.
Cooking Time: 12-13 hours
Spicy Chipotle Traeger Brisket
Get ready to experience a flavor explosion with this Spicy Chipotle Traeger Brisket recipe! A perfect blend of smoky heat and tender texture, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole brisket (5-6 pounds)
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Wood pellets for Traeger (your preferred type)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chipotle peppers, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the brisket, making sure to cover every surface evenly.
4. Place the brisket on the Traeger grill grates, fat side up.
5. Close the lid and cook for 10 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
6. Remove from heat, let rest for 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 10 hours
Bourbon-Glazed Smoked Brisket
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with this indulgent recipe that combines the tender, smoky flavor of brisket with a sweet and tangy bourbon glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole beef brisket (5-6 pounds)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. Season the brisket with brown sugar, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper.
3. Smoke the brisket for 8-10 hours, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. In a small saucepan, combine bourbon whiskey, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Brush the glaze onto the brisket during the last 30 minutes of smoking.
6. Let the brisket rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Traeger Brisket with Alabama White Sauce
This recipe combines the tenderizing power of slow-cooked brisket with the tangy, creamy goodness of Alabama White Sauce. Perfect for sandwiches or served on its own, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 (5-6 pound) beef brisket
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup Alabama White Sauce (see below)
– Wood pellets for smoking (your choice of flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the brisket, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the brisket in the Traeger, fat side up.
5. Close the lid and smoke for 8-10 hours or until tender.
6. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the brisket with Alabama White Sauce.
Alabama White Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons white vinegar
– 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Smoked Brisket Tacos with Avocado Crema
Elevate your taco game with this mouthwatering combination of tender smoked brisket, crispy taco shells, and creamy avocado crema. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 8-10 taco shells
– Avocado crema (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and brown sugar.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the brisket, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the brisket in the smoker and cook for 8-10 hours, or until tender and easily shredded with two forks.
5. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by placing shredded brisket onto a shell, followed by avocado crema (recipe below) and desired toppings.
Avocado Crema Recipe:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup sour cream
Mash the avocados in a bowl until smooth. Add lime juice, salt, and sour cream. Mix well.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (smoker), 30 minutes (taco shells)
Peppercorn-Crusted Traeger Brisket
Elevate your brisket game with this aromatic and flavorful recipe that combines the rich flavors of peppercorns with the tenderizing effects of slow cooking on a Traeger.
Ingredients:
– 1 (5-6 pound) beef brisket
– 2 tablespoons black peppercorns, coarsely ground
– 1 tablespoon coriander seeds, toasted and crushed
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together ground peppercorns, crushed coriander seeds, and kosher salt.
3. Rub the peppercorn mixture all over the brisket, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the brisket in the Traeger, fat side up.
5. Close the lid and cook for 8 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the brisket with a mixture of brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil.
Cooking Time: 8 hours
Smoked Brisket Burnt Ends
This recipe yields tender, smoky burnt ends with a deep flavor profile that’s perfect for any BBQ gathering. By using leftover brisket trimmings and a simple smoking process, you’ll create a snack that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds brisket trimmings (burnt ends)
– 1 cup smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Wood chips or chunks for smoking (your choice of wood type)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, brown sugar, chili powder, and cumin.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the burnt ends, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Place the burnt ends in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 2-3 hours, or until tender and caramelized.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Traeger Brisket Chili with Beans
Traeger Brisket Chili with Beans Recipe
Summary: This hearty Traeger brisket chili recipe combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked brisket with tender beans and a blend of spices, all perfectly cooked to perfection on your Traeger grill.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef brisket
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 275°F.
2. Season brisket with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings.
3. Place brisket in the Traeger’s cooking chamber.
4. In a large skillet, cook onion and garlic until softened; add chili powder and cumin.
5. Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, and red kidney beans to the skillet.
6. Pour mixture over brisket in the Traeger.
7. Close lid and smoke for 8-10 hours or until tender.
8. Shred brisket with two forks and stir into chili.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped onions, sour cream, or shredded cheese.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Smoked Brisket Sliders with Pickled Onions
Elevate your game-day gathering or casual get-together with these tender, smoky brisket sliders topped with tangy pickled onions.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef brisket
– 1 cup wood chips (post oak or mesquite work well)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 12 hamburger buns
– Pickled onions (recipe below)
– Coleslaw, pickles, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the brisket, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place brisket in smoker and cook for 10 hours or until tender.
5. Slice brisket thinly against the grain.
6. Assemble sliders by placing a slice of brisket on each bun and topping with pickled onions.
Pickled Onions:
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tbsp sugar
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Traeger Brisket Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the rich flavors of slow-cooked brisket, all thanks to your Traeger grill. This creamy, comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a unique twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup slow-cooked brisket ( Traeger-smoked or oven-roasted)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger grill 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 together to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
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 cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and slow-cooked brisket into the cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer the Traeger Brisket Mac and Cheese to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (including prep and cooking time)
Smoked Brisket Quesadillas
Elevate your quesadilla game with the rich flavor of smoked brisket. This recipe combines tender, slow-cooked brisket with melted cheese and crispy tortillas for a satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked brisket (shredded)
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each tortilla.
3. Place one tortilla, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Sprinkle half of the shredded brisket onto the tortilla, followed by half of the cheese.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
9. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per quesadilla
Traeger Brisket Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your stuffed peppers game with the rich flavor of Traeger-smoked brisket. This recipe combines tender beef with colorful bell peppers and aromatic spices for a mouthwatering twist on a classic.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup Traeger-smoked brisket, shredded
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in shredded brisket, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the brisket mixture, filling to the top.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and smoke for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue smoking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until peppers are tender.
8. Optional: Sprinkle shredded cheddar on top of peppers during last 5 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoked Brisket Nachos with Queso
Smoked Brisket Nachos with Queso: Elevate your nacho game with this mouth-watering recipe that combines tender smoked brisket, crispy tortilla chips, and a rich queso sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked brisket (homemade or store-bought), shredded
– 1 bag tortilla chips
– 1 cup queso sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced yellow onion
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Spoon shredded brisket over the tortilla chips.
4. Drizzle queso sauce evenly over the brisket.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and diced bell pepper over the top.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with diced onion. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Traeger Brisket Shepherd’s Pie
Elevate your classic shepherd’s pie with tender, slow-cooked brisket from your Traeger pellet grill. This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger grill to 275°F (135°C).
2. Season the brisket with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. In a skillet, cook the diced onion and minced garlic until softened. Add the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and peas and carrots. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Place the brisket in the Traeger grill and cook for 8 hours or until tender.
5. Slice the cooked brisket into thin strips.
6. In a separate pot, warm the mashed potatoes.
7. Assemble the shepherd’s pie by layering the brisket slices, potato mixture, and additional peas and carrots in a baking dish.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8 hours (plus 30 minutes for assembly)
Smoked Brisket Hash with Eggs
Start your day off right with this savory breakfast dish featuring tender smoked brisket, crispy hash browns, and a fried egg on top. This recipe is perfect for a lazy Sunday morning or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb leftover smoked brisket (warmed)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
– Chopped fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced potatoes and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Warm the smoked brisket by wrapping it in foil and heating it in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes.
4. Fry an egg in a separate non-stick skillet or microwave-safe plate.
5. Assemble the hash by placing the potatoes on a plate, topping with the warmed brisket, and finishing with a fried egg.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Traeger Brisket Pizza with BBQ Sauce
This unique pizza combines the rich flavor of slow-cooked brisket with the tanginess of BBQ sauce, all on a crispy Traeger-baked crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb brisket
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 Traeger pizza crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Optional toppings: diced bell peppers, red onion, jalapeños
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Traeger to 375°F.
2. Cook the brisket in the Traeger for 8 hours or until tender and easily shredded.
3. Slice the cooked brisket into thin strips.
4. Roll out the pizza crust and spread a layer of BBQ sauce, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
6. Add the sliced brisket on top, followed by any desired additional toppings.
7. Cook in the Traeger for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the rich flavor of smoked brisket. This comforting sandwich combines tender, slow-cooked brisket with melted cheddar and gooey provolone.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded provolone cheese
– 2-3 ounces smoked brisket, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: additional toppings like caramelized onions or jalapeños
Instructions:
1. Preheat a griddle or skillet over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, on the griddle.
4. Top with a slice of brisket, some cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Place another bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per sandwich
Traeger Brisket Poutine with Gravy
Traeger Brisket Poutine with Gravy: A Hearty Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
This recipe combines the tender, smoky goodness of Traeger-smoked brisket with the warm, comforting flavors of poutine and rich gravy. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or as a satisfying snack any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) beef brisket
– 1 cup French-fry potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch thick sticks
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh chives or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 275°F.
2. Season brisket with salt and pepper; place on the Traeger grill.
3. Smoke brisket for 8-10 hours, or until tender and easily shredded.
4. Meanwhile, cook French-fry potatoes in boiling water for 5 minutes; drain and set aside.
5. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat; add garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until gravy thickens.
6. Assemble poutine by placing cooked brisket on top of potatoes; drizzle with gravy. Garnish with chives or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (smoking) + 5 minutes (gravy)
Summary
Get ready to elevate your grilling game with these 20 mouth-watering Traeger brisket recipes! From classic Texas-style smoked brisket to spicy chipotle and bourbon-glazed, there’s a recipe for every pitmaster. Try pairing your brisket with Alabama white sauce or avocado crema, or get creative with burnt ends, chili, mac and cheese, and more. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting like sliders with pickled onions or adventurous like quesadillas with queso, this list has got you covered.
