Imagine the mouthwatering aroma of tender, smoky BBQ ribs wafting through the air, teasing your senses and making your stomach rumble with anticipation. The Traeger grill transforms these ribs into a flavor-packed masterpiece, with a perfect blend of sweetness and tang that dances on your palate, making every bite an unforgettable experience.
I still remember the first time I fired up my Traeger for a backyard cookout; the excitement was palpable as friends gathered around, their eyes lighting up at the sight of those glistening ribs. Whether it’s a summer barbecue, a cozy family dinner, or just a casual weekend hangout, these Traeger grill recipes promise to elevate any occasion, leaving everyone craving more deliciousness.
Why Does Everyone Love traeger grill recipes?
Tender, juicy ribs that fall off the bone are just the beginning! Smoky flavor infuses every bite, thanks to the Traeger grill's perfect cooking method. Easy prep with a simple dry rub means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal. Crowd-pleasing BBQ sauce adds a tangy finish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, with a flexible recipe, you can customize the heat level to suit your taste!
traeger grill recipes Ingredients
For the Ribs
- 2 lbs pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs) – Choose your favorite cut for tenderness and smoky flavor when cooked on the Traeger grill.
For the Dry Rub
- 2 tablespoon brown sugar – This adds a delightful sweetness that balances the savory notes of the ribs.
- 1 tablespoon paprika – Provides a rich color and mild flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder – Offers a robust garlic aroma, perfect for those BBQ lovers.
- 1 tablespoon onion powder – Adds depth and sweetness, complementing the other spices beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon black pepper – Gives a slight kick and enhances all other flavors in the rub.
- 1 tablespoon salt – Essential for drawing out moisture and enhancing the rib's natural taste.
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat) – Add this if you like a spicy kick to your BBQ ribs.
For the BBQ Sauce
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand) – Select a sauce that complements your dry rub for an irresistible glaze and finishing touch on your ribs.
Directions: traeger grill recipes
1. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for better flavor absorption. This small step ensures that your 2 lbs of pork ribs soak up all that delicious dry rub goodness.
2. Mix all the dry rub ingredients together in a bowl. Combine 2 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 tablespoon paprika, 1 tablespoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon onion powder, 1 tablespoon black pepper, and 1 tablespoon salt, plus 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper if you like it spicy!
3. Rub the mixture generously over both sides of the ribs. Make sure to coat every nook and cranny of your ribs with that flavorful blend—it’s where all the magic happens.
4. Wrap the ribs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully; trust me, it’s worth the wait!
5. Preheat the Traeger grill to 225°F (107°C). A steady low temperature is crucial for those tender, smoky results we all crave.
6. Place the ribs on the grill grates bone-side down. Let them bask in that smoky goodness for about 3 hours while you enjoy the tantalizing aroma wafting through your backyard.
7. Cook for 3 hours, maintaining that perfect temperature. Keep an eye on your grill’s heat to ensure even cooking and deeply infused flavors.
8. Wrap the ribs in aluminum foil and return to the grill for another hour. This step helps create a steamy environment ensuring your ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender.
9. Unwrap the ribs, brush with BBQ sauce generously, and grill for an additional 30 minutes. Choose your favorite brand—this is where those mouthwatering flavors truly shine!
10. Check the internal temperature; it should reach at least 190°F (88°C) for tender ribs. Use a meat thermometer to be certain; this will give you perfectly cooked ribs every time.
11. Remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows juices to redistribute, making each bite succulent.
12. Serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side for those who love an extra drizzle! Gather around with family and friends to share this delicious dish.
Optional: Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pro Tips for traeger grill recipes
- Membrane Removal: Remove the membrane from the ribs to enhance flavor absorption and ensure tenderness. This step is crucial for juicy, flavorful results.
- Dry Rub Rest Time: Allow the dry rub to sit on the ribs for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This not only deepens the flavors but also helps create a delicious crust when grilling.
- Temperature Control: Maintain a consistent grill temperature of 225°F. Fluctuations can lead to uneven cooking, resulting in tough ribs.
- Wrapping Technique: When wrapping the ribs in foil after three hours, ensure they are tightly sealed. This locks in moisture and tenderness, making your Traeger grill recipes shine.
- BBQ Sauce Timing: Apply BBQ sauce during the last 30 minutes of grilling. This prevents burning and allows the sauce to caramelize beautifully without losing its flavor.
- Resting Period: Let the ribs rest for about 10 minutes after grilling. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and succulent.
How to Store and Freeze traeger grill recipes
- Fridge: Store leftover ribs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for your next craving.
- Freezer: Wrap the ribs tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat ribs in the oven at 250°F until warmed through, about 30 minutes. This preserves their tender texture and smoky flavor from your Traeger grill recipes.
- BBQ Sauce Storage: If you have extra BBQ sauce, store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months to enjoy later.
traeger grill recipes Your Way
Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity and customize these ribs to suit your taste buds!
- Spicy Kick: Add an extra tablespoon of cayenne pepper for a fiery twist. The heat will enhance the smoky flavor, making each bite a flavorful adventure.
- Sweet & Tangy: Substitute half of the brown sugar with honey for a deliciously sticky finish. This will give your ribs a beautiful glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
- Smoky BBQ Sauce: Use a chipotle-flavored barbecue sauce to infuse a deep, smoky taste. This will elevate your ribs with an irresistible flavor profile that’s perfect for summer gatherings.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in 1 tablespoon of dried thyme or oregano into your dry rub. These herbs will add aromatic notes that make every bite feel like a backyard feast.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate the zest of one orange or lemon into the dry rub for a refreshing twist. This brightens up the flavors and adds a fragrant touch that pairs well with the richness of the ribs.
- Honey Mustard Glaze: Replace BBQ sauce with honey mustard for tangy-sweet ribs. This alternative delivers a unique flavor that's both zesty and satisfying.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: Swap out brown sugar for maple syrup in the rub for a rich, earthy sweetness. The maple will create an incredible caramelized crust when grilled.
- Garlic Lovers: Double the garlic powder in the rub for an intense garlicky flavor. This simple change enhances the overall taste profile, perfect for garlic enthusiasts!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing these tender BBQ ribs on your Traeger grill is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to savor the smoky flavor and tangy goodness on busy days. You can easily prep the dry rub with 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon each of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt, plus optional cayenne for that kick. Simply apply this rub to the ribs after removing the membrane and wrap them in plastic wrap; they can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours. For even more convenience, you can mix your favorite BBQ sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy your traeger grill recipes, just fire up the grill at 225°F (107°C), cook the ribs as directed, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
traeger grill recipes Recipe FAQs
What type of ribs should I use for this recipe?
You can use either baby back ribs or spare ribs for this delicious Traeger grill recipe. Baby back ribs are leaner and tend to be more tender, while spare ribs have a bit more meat and a richer flavor. Both will yield fantastic results!
How long should I let the dry rub sit on the ribs?
For the best flavor absorption, wrap the seasoned ribs in plastic wrap and refrigerate them for at least 2 hours, though overnight is ideal. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply into the meat, enhancing the overall taste.
Can I store leftover ribs, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! Allow any leftover ribs to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in the oven or on the grill when you’re ready to enjoy again!
Is it possible to freeze cooked BBQ ribs?
Yes! If you want to save some for later, cooked BBQ ribs freeze beautifully. Just make sure they are cooled and well-wrapped in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What internal temperature should my ribs reach?
For perfectly tender BBQ ribs, aim for an internal temperature of at least 190°F (88°C). This ensures that the collagen breaks down sufficiently, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth goodness that your family will love!
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe serves about 4 people, making it perfect for a family gathering or a small barbecue with friends. With each serving being approximately 450 calories, it's a hearty meal that won't leave anyone hungry!
Traeger Grilled BBQ Ribs
Ingredients
Method
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for better flavor absorption.
- In a bowl, mix all the dry rub ingredients together.
- Rub the mixture generously over both sides of the ribs.
- Wrap the ribs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Preheat the Traeger grill to 225°F (107°C).
- Place the ribs on the grill grates bone-side down.
- Cook for 3 hours, maintaining the temperature.
- After 3 hours, wrap the ribs in aluminum foil and return to the grill for another hour.
- Unwrap the ribs, brush with BBQ sauce, and grill for an additional 30 minutes.
- Check the internal temperature; it should reach at least 190°F (88°C) for tender ribs.
- Remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side.
