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25 Incredible Fall Tailgating Recipes for the Grill

Whether you’re into grilling, smoking, or frying, these recipes promise exciting ways to enjoy familiar flavors with bold new twists. Perfect for gatherings, family meals, or quick snacks, each dish offers something unique to try. From smoky nachos to savory casseroles, there’s a little something for every food lover here.

This collection features a blend of innovative ideas—like smoked sloppy joes and pig shots—and fresh takes on classics, including chili dogs and meatball subs. Each recipe makes it easy to explore new techniques while keeping things approachable and delicious.

So fire up the grill, grab your favorite ingredients, and dive into this mouthwatering lineup. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a lively cookout with friends, these dishes are guaranteed to add great flavor and fun to the table.

Breaded Smoked and Fried Chicken Wings

Breaded Smoked and Fried Chicken Wings. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

These wings combine the best of both worlds—smoking and frying—for crispy skin with a smoky, juicy interior. Ideal for game day or casual meals.
Get the Recipe: Breaded Smoked and Fried Chicken Wings

Greek Smoked Cream Cheese

Greek Smoked Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Creamy smoked cream cheese mixed with olives, herbs, and Mediterranean spices. Serve it with pita or crackers for a flavorful appetizer or as part of a mezze platter.
Get the Recipe: Greek Smoked Cream Cheese

Grilled Bison Burger

Grilled Bison Burger. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

A juicy burger made with bison and pork, cooked on a pellet grill for a smoky finish. Topped with Colby Jack, it’s a great alternative to beef for burger lovers.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Bison Burger

Grilled Greek Meatball Bowls

Grilled Greek Meatball Bowls. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

These Greek-style meatballs are served over rice with vegetables and topped with tzatziki for a flavorful, satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Greek Meatball Bowls

Smoked Spare Ribs

Smoked Spare Ribs. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Spare ribs smoked low and slow, basted with apple cider for extra moisture, and finished with a sticky BBQ glaze for a delicious crust.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Spare Ribs

Smoked Red Pepper Hummus

Smoked Red Pepper Hummus. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Add a smoky twist to your hummus with roasted red peppers. This easy recipe makes a flavorful snack that’s perfect with pita or veggies.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Red Pepper Hummus

Teres Major Steak (Grilled or Pan Seared)

Teres Major Steak (Grilled or Pan Seared). Photo credit: Foodie and Wine.

This budget-friendly cut, also known as the “poor man’s filet,” is grilled to tender perfection and basted with garlic butter.
Get the Recipe: Teres Major Steak (Grilled or Pan Seared)

Traeger Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Traeger Ham and Cheese Pinwheels. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Puff pastry rolled with ham, cheddar, and mustard, baked until golden on the Traeger grill. These pinwheels make an easy appetizer or snack.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Smoked Pulled Pork Nachos

Smoked Pulled Pork Nachos. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

These loaded nachos feature smoky pulled pork with layers of cheese, jalapeños, and more. They’re perfect for sharing at parties or casual gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pulled Pork Nachos

Smoked Tomatillo Salsa

Smoked Tomatillo Salsa. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Tomatillos are smoked for extra depth, creating a tangy salsa with a smoky edge. Pair it with chips, tacos, or any Mexican dish.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Tomatillo Salsa

Traeger Smoked Burgers

Traeger Smoked Burgers. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

This take on a classic burger adds a smoky flavor to the meat. It’s perfect for barbecue fans looking to mix things up.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Burgers

Smoked Cincinnati Chili Recipe

Smoked Cincinnati Chili Recipe. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

These chili dogs feature a no-bean chili cooked on a Traeger grill, adding layers of smokiness. Perfect for an indulgent meal, especially for smoky chili fans.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cincinnati Chili Recipe

Traeger No-Bean Chili Dogs

Traeger No-Bean Chili Dogs. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

A no-bean chili cooked on the grill adds smokiness to these fun chili dogs—an indulgent twist for hot dog lovers.
Get the Recipe: Traeger No-Bean Chili Dogs

Grilled Huli Huli Chicken

Grilled Huli Huli Chicken. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

This grilled dish combines sweet and savory flavors with a tropical flair. It’s a great option for those who love trying new BBQ recipes.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Huli Huli Chicken

Smoked Beef Bacon Jalapeno Poppers

Smoked Beef Bacon Jalapeno Poppers. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

These poppers are filled with cheese and wrapped in beef bacon, then smoked for a spicy, smoky snack. Perfect for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Beef Bacon Jalapeno Poppers

Traeger Smoked Brat Burgers

Traeger Smoked Brat Burgers. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

These unique burgers combine bratwurst with a smoky finish, creating a flavorful option that’s great for outdoor grilling sessions.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Brat Burgers

Traeger Armadillo Eggs Recipe

Traeger Armadillo Eggs Recipe. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Cheese-stuffed jalapeños wrapped in sausage and smoked to perfection. This spicy appetizer is sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Armadillo Eggs Recipe

Traeger Grilled Meatball Bread

Traeger Grilled Meatball Bread. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

This inventive dish combines bread and meatballs, grilled for a smoky twist. A hearty meal for those looking to try something new.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Grilled Meatball Bread

Smoked Short Rib Poutine

Smoked Short Rib Poutine. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Traditional poutine topped with smoked short ribs for a hearty, savory dish with layers of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Short Rib Poutine

Traeger Smoked Beer Brats

Traeger Smoked Beer Brats. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

These bratwursts are smoked on a Traeger, with beer adding extra depth. Great for cookouts or casual gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Beer Brats

Smoked Over the Top Sloppy Joes

Smoked Over the Top Sloppy Joes. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

A smoky update to a classic comfort food, these sloppy joes offer a rich, savory twist. Perfect for quick meals with a twist.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Over the Top Sloppy Joes

Smoked Garlic Pig Shots

Smoked Garlic Pig Shots. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

These unique appetizers feature smoked sausage cups filled with garlic and cheese, delivering a flavorful bite-sized snack.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Garlic Pig Shots

Traeger Meatball Sub Casserole

Traeger Meatball Sub Casserole. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Enjoy the taste of a meatball sub in casserole form. This baked dish is great for family dinners or cozy nights in.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Meatball Sub Casserole

Smoked Over the Top Chili

Smoked Over the Top Chili. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

A classic chili enhanced with rich, smoky flavors. It’s a great option for those looking to experiment with traditional comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Over the Top Chili

Smoked Cheese Curd Burger Salad

Smoked Cheese Curd Burger Salad. Photo credit: The Creative Bite.

A playful take on a burger, this salad combines smoked cheese curds with fresh veggies, delivering all the flavors of a cheeseburger in a lighter form.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cheese Curd Burger Salad