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28 Game-Winning Appetizer Recipes For Your Smoker

Love bold, smoky flavors? This collection of recipes takes appetizers, seafood, and comfort foods to the next level with rich, wood-fired depth. Whether you’re looking for crispy wings, melty cheese dips, or smoky twists on classic favorites, you’ll find plenty of inspiration here.

Many of these recipes are ideal for grilling season but can be enjoyed year-round. From bite-sized party snacks to hearty shareable dishes, these options are packed with flavor and easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something deliciously smoky, there’s a dish for every occasion.

Scroll through and discover the best smoky bites to add to your recipe lineup—you might just find a new favorite!

Breaded Smoked and Fried Buffalo Wings

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

These wings are smoked for deep flavor, then fried until crispy and tossed in bold Buffalo sauce. Juicy inside, crunchy outside—perfect for game day!
Get the Recipe: Breaded Smoked and Fried Buffalo Wings

Easy Smoked Jalapeno Poppers (Bacon Wrapped Recipe)

Easy Smoked Jalapeno Poppers (Bacon Wrapped Recipe). Photo credit: Blackberry Babe.

Creamy, smoky, and wrapped in crispy bacon, these jalapeño poppers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. A perfect appetizer for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Easy Smoked Jalapeno Poppers (Bacon Wrapped Recipe)

Smoked Over The Top Queso Con Carne

Smoked Over The Top Queso Con Carne. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

This rich, smoky queso dip is loaded with seasoned meat and melty cheese. A must-try for parties, game nights, or any time you want a hearty dip.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Over The Top Queso Con Carne

Smoked Cheesesteak Jalapeño Poppers

Smoked Cheesesteak Jalapeño Poppers. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

A fiery twist on classic poppers! These are stuffed with Philly cheesesteak flavors and smoked to perfection, making them a unique and tasty appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cheesesteak Jalapeño Poppers

Traeger Artichoke Dip Pinwheels

Traeger Artichoke Dip Pinwheels. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Flaky puff pastry is filled with creamy artichoke dip and cooked on a Traeger grill for a smoky, cheesy appetizer that’s great for sharing.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Artichoke Dip Pinwheels

Traeger BBQ Pork Nachos

Traeger BBQ Pork Nachos. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Smoky, tender BBQ pork piled high on crispy tortilla chips with classic nacho toppings. A great snack for parties or a fun dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Traeger BBQ Pork Nachos

Smoked Pulled Pork Nachos

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

Loaded with smoky pulled pork, gooey cheese, and all the best toppings, these nachos are the ultimate shareable comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pulled Pork Nachos

Easy Butter Smoked Shrimp

Easy Butter Smoked Shrimp. Photo credit: Blackberry Babe.

Juicy shrimp are marinated in buttery seasoning and smoked for a rich, flavorful dish. Great as an appetizer or served over pasta or rice.
Get the Recipe: Easy Butter Smoked Shrimp

Smoked Beef Bacon Jalapeno Poppers

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

Smoky beef bacon takes these spicy, cheesy jalapeño poppers to the next level. A bold and flavorful snack for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Beef Bacon Jalapeno Poppers

Traeger Grilled Meatball Bread

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

Meatballs and bread come together in this smoky, cheesy, grilled dish. A unique twist on a classic comfort food favorite.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Grilled Meatball Bread

Traeger Carnitas Taquitos

Traeger Carnitas Taquitos. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Crispy taquitos filled with smoky carnitas, perfect for dipping in salsa or guacamole. A fun and flavorful take on a Mexican favorite.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Carnitas Taquitos

Easy Smoked Meatballs

Easy Smoked Meatballs. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

These tender, smoky meatballs are a hit at any party. A simple smoking method keeps them juicy while adding incredible depth of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Easy Smoked Meatballs

Smoked Bacon-Wrapped Scallops

Smoked Bacon-Wrapped Scallops. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

Bacon-wrapped scallops get a smoky upgrade in this elegant yet easy appetizer. A surefire way to impress your guests.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Bacon-Wrapped Scallops

Smoked Brie

Smoked Brie. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

This creamy, melty brie takes on a rich, smoky flavor that makes it an unforgettable appetizer. Serve with crackers, fruit, or a drizzle of honey.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brie

Traeger Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Traeger Crab Stuffed Mushrooms. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Mushrooms filled with a savory crab mixture and smoked to perfection. A delicious, bite-sized appetizer for seafood lovers.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Traeger Spicy Corn Salsa Recipe

Traeger Spicy Corn Salsa Recipe. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Smoky, charred corn mixed with fresh ingredients for a spicy, flavorful salsa. Great as a dip or taco topping.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Spicy Corn Salsa Recipe

Smoked Jalapeño Popper Cream Cheese

Smoked Jalapeño Popper Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

A smoky take on classic jalapeño poppers—this version blends the flavors into a creamy, spreadable dip. Perfect for crackers or veggies.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Jalapeño Popper Cream Cheese

Smoked BBQ Pickled Eggs

Smoked BBQ Pickled Eggs. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Classic pickled eggs get a smoky, tangy twist with BBQ seasoning. A unique snack with bold flavors.
Get the Recipe: Smoked BBQ Pickled Eggs

Traeger Smoked Shotgun Shells

Traeger Smoked Shotgun Shells. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Pasta tubes are stuffed with seasoned meat and cheese, then smoked for a tender, flavorful bite. A must-try for barbecue lovers.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Shotgun Shells

Garlic Parmesan Smoked Wings

Garlic Parmesan Smoked Wings. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Smoked wings coated in garlicky Parmesan goodness. Crispy, cheesy, and packed with savory flavor.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Parmesan Smoked Wings

Traeger Smoked Hot Crab Dip

Traeger Smoked Hot Crab Dip. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

A rich and creamy crab dip with a smoky twist. Perfect for dipping with chips, crackers, or toasted bread.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Hot Crab Dip

Smoked Loaded Potato Skins

Smoked Loaded Potato Skins. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Crispy potato skins filled with cheese, bacon, and smoky goodness. A great appetizer or side for any cookout.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Loaded Potato Skins

Smoked Deviled Eggs

Smoked Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Classic deviled eggs with a smoky depth that takes them to the next level. A creative twist on a traditional favorite.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Deviled Eggs

Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Dip

Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Dip. Photo credit: The Creative Bite.

Silky smoked salmon blended into a creamy dip. A sophisticated yet simple appetizer for brunch or parties.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Dip

Smoked Buffalo Chicken Dip

Smoked Buffalo Chicken Dip. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

This spicy, creamy Buffalo chicken dip gets a smoky upgrade, making it even more irresistible. Serve with chips, veggies, or bread.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Buffalo Chicken Dip

Cheesy Smoked Salmon & Asparagus Crostini

Cheesy Smoked Salmon & Asparagus Crostini. Photo credit: The Creative Bite.

Crispy crostini topped with creamy cheese, smoked salmon, and tender asparagus. A light yet flavorful appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Smoked Salmon & Asparagus Crostini

Smoked Spiced Shrimp with Homemade Saskatchewan Dry Rub

Smoked Spiced Shrimp with Homemade Saskatchewan Dry Rub. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

These smoky, spiced shrimp are seasoned with a homemade blackened rub for bold, well-balanced flavor. Perfect as an appetizer or taco filling.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Spiced Shrimp with Homemade Saskatchewan Dry Rub

Smoked Blackened Salmon Sliders

Smoked Blackened Salmon Sliders. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Mini sandwiches featuring smoky, blackened salmon and fresh toppings. A perfect summer BBQ dish with big flavor.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Blackened Salmon Sliders