13 Smoker Recipes That Aren’t Just Brisket and Ribs

When most people think of smoking, they picture brisket, ribs, and maybe the occasional pulled pork sandwich. But a smoker can do so much more. From seafood and vegetables to comfort food classics like mac and cheese, smoking adds layers of flavor that go far beyond barbecue staples. If you’re ready to branch out, these 13 recipes will show you how versatile a smoker really is—and why it deserves a spot in your kitchen year-round.

Smoked Lemon-Pepper Chicken Wings

There’s something irresistible about the combination of smoky flavor and zesty lemon-pepper seasoning on chicken wings. These wings are an absolute crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering or just a cozy evening in. The smoking process brings out the juicy tenderness of the chicken while adding a unique depth of flavor.

Start by marinating the wings in a mixture of lemon juice, black pepper, garlic, and olive oil. Then, smoke them at 225°F for about 1.5 hours. Serve them with a side of blue cheese dressing or ranch for dipping. For a fun twist, consider adding some smoked paprika to the marinade.

Smoked Mac and Cheese

Take your traditional mac and cheese to the next level by smoking it. The result is a creamy, cheesy dish with a wonderful smoky flavor that’s utterly addictive. This recipe is super versatile, allowing you to add in any extra ingredients that tickle your fancy, like bacon or jalapenos.

Prepare your favorite mac and cheese recipe, then smoke it at 225°F for about 2 hours. Want to kick it up a notch? Try using smoked cheese for an even deeper smoky flavor. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent the cheese from burning.

Smoked Salmon with Maple Glaze

This smoked salmon recipe is a real treat, especially for seafood lovers. The maple glaze adds a sweet touch to the smoky, savory salmon, creating a perfect balance of flavors. It’s an elegant dish that’s surprisingly easy to make.

Start by brining the salmon in a mixture of salt, sugar, water, and spices. Then, smoke it at 225°F for about 2 hours. Baste the salmon with a glaze made of maple syrup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard during the last half hour of smoking. Serve it with a side of steamed veggies and a glass of white wine for a satisfying meal.

Smoked Whole Cauliflower

Even veggies can benefit from a good smoke! Smoked whole cauliflower is a tasty and healthy side dish that’s full of flavor. The smoking process enhances the natural sweetness of the cauliflower while adding a nice smoky touch.

Simply rub the cauliflower with olive oil and your favorite spices, then smoke it at 225°F for about 2 hours. You can serve it as is or with a drizzle of cheese sauce for extra yumminess. It’s a great side dish for smoked meats or a wonderful centerpiece for a vegetarian feast.

Smoked Stuffed Bell Peppers

These smoked stuffed bell peppers are a delicious twist on the classic version. The peppers become tender and slightly sweet when smoked, which pairs beautifully with the savory stuffing. Plus, you can customize the stuffing to your liking, making it a versatile recipe.

Start by hollowing out the peppers and filling them with a mixture of cooked ground meat, rice, onions, tomatoes, and spices. Then, smoke them at 225°F for about 2 hours. For a vegetarian option, swap the meat for quinoa or black beans. Don’t forget to top them off with some shredded cheese during the last 15 minutes of smoking for a melty, cheesy finish.

Smoked Beef Chuck Roast

While brisket may be the traditional choice for smoking, a beef chuck roast can be just as delicious. When smoked, the roast becomes incredibly tender and flavorful. It’s a hearty dish that’s sure to satisfy any meat lover.

Season the roast with a simple rub of salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then smoke it at 225°F for about 8 hours. Slice it thinly and serve it with smoked veggies or in a sandwich. Pair it with a robust red wine for a complete meal.

Smoked Spicy Tofu

Who says smoking is only for meat? Smoked spicy tofu is a fantastic option for vegetarians and vegans. The tofu takes on a firm texture and a smoky flavor that’s perfectly complemented by the spicy marinade.

Marinate the tofu in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, and garlic, then smoke it at 225°F for about 1 hour. You can adjust the level of spiciness to your liking by adding more or less red pepper flakes. Serve it with rice and steamed veggies for a healthy, flavorful meal.

Smoked Shrimp Skewers

These smoked shrimp skewers are a seafood lover’s dream. The shrimp become plump and juicy when smoked, and the skewers make them easy to handle and serve. They’re perfect for a summer barbecue or a fancy dinner party.

Season the shrimp with lemon juice, garlic, and your favorite seafood seasoning, then thread them onto skewers and smoke at 225°F for about 30 minutes. You can add other ingredients to the skewers, like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or pineapple chunks, for extra flavor and color. Serve them with a side of garlic butter or cocktail sauce for dipping.

Smoked Corn on the Cob

Nothing says summer quite like corn on the cob, and smoking it takes it to a whole new level of deliciousness. The kernels become tender and slightly sweet, with a wonderful smoky flavor that’s hard to resist.

Simply husk the corn, brush it with butter, season it with salt and pepper, and smoke it at 225°F for about 1 hour. For a fun twist, try adding some smoked paprika or chili powder to the butter. Serve it with a squeeze of lime for a refreshing touch.

Smoked Turkey Legs

Bring the flavor of the fair to your backyard with these smoked turkey legs. The meat becomes incredibly tender and flavorful when smoked, and the crispy skin is a delicious bonus. Plus, they’re fun to eat!

Start by brining the legs in a mixture of water, salt, sugar, and spices. Then, smoke them at 225°F for about 4 hours. You’ll want to use a meat thermometer to ensure they’re cooked to the proper temperature. Serve them with a side of coleslaw or potato salad for a classic fair-inspired meal.

Smoked Oysters in Garlic Butter

These smoked oysters in garlic butter are a real treat for seafood lovers. The oysters become tender and slightly briny when smoked, and the garlic butter adds a rich, savory touch. They’re a sophisticated appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests.

Start by shucking the oysters and placing them on a bed of rock salt or crumpled aluminum foil to keep them steady. Then, smoke them at 225°F for about 1 hour. During the last 15 minutes of smoking, top them off with a mixture of melted butter, garlic, and parsley. Serve them with a squeeze of lemon and a glass of crisp white wine.

Smoked Scallops with Lemon and Herbs

Smoked scallops are a delightful seafood dish that’s sure to impress. The scallops become tender and slightly sweet when smoked, and the lemon and herbs add a refreshing touch. They’re an elegant appetizer or main course that’s surprisingly easy to make.

Season the scallops with lemon zest, garlic, and your favorite herbs, then smoke them at 225°F for about 1 hour. You can serve them on their own or over a bed of pasta or risotto. Pair them with a glass of white wine for a complete meal.

Smoked Vegetable Medley

Who says veggies have to be boring? This smoked vegetable medley is a flavorful and healthy side dish that’s full of color. The smoking process enhances the natural sweetness of the veggies while adding a nice smoky touch.

Choose a variety of your favorite veggies, like bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and onions, then season them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Smoke them at 225°F for about 1 hour. You can also add some fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor. Serve them with a side of grilled meat or fish for a balanced meal.