John

If you’re ready to kick your Oktoberfest celebrations up a notch, brats simmered in beer and grilled on a pellet grill definitely deserve a spot on your menu. This classic combo merges smoky grill flavor, juicy sausage, and the malty goodness of beer, making for a meal that feels made for autumn festivities. Whether you’re … Read more

Game day tailgates are easily some of the best parts of the sports season. The smell of smoked meats drifting across the parking lot, the buzz of anticipation before kickoff, and everyone gathered around the smoker swapping stories—there’s nothing quite like it. Having a reliable smoker (plus a few solid tricks up your sleeve) can … Read more

Traeger Woodridge grills are shaking up the backyard barbecue world. If you’re looking for a wood-fired grill with smart tech and practical features, the Woodridge lineup might hit the sweet spot. Traeger has been stepping up its game since the early 2000s, and the Woodridge series really brings together convenience, reliability, and flavor all in … Read more

The Coziest Smoked Baked Potato Soup Recipe for Serious Comfort Food Vibes Few things beat a creamy bowl of potato soup when you want something hearty, satisfying, and just plain comforting. After spending some time testing different cooking methods, I stumbled upon a simple technique: give your potatoes a stint in the smoker before turning … Read more

Keeping your smoker in top shape makes a world of difference when the cold months roll in. A little bit of maintenance before winter can help you avoid frustrating breakdowns, weird flavors, and wasted fuel. Caring for your smoker isn’t just about pride of ownership; it’s also about making sure your briskets, ribs, and sausages … Read more

Brined Pulled Pork: Juicy, Flavorful, and Easy Enough for Any Cookout The world of slow-cooked pork offers so many delicious routes to explore, but brined pulled pork always stands out for me. After trying a bunch of different pulled pork methods over the years, I landed on brining as my default way of getting meat … Read more

Smoked Chicken Wings with Frank’s Red Hot: The Ultimate Flavor Combo Smoky, spicy, and totally addictive, smoked chicken wings tossed in Frank’s Red Hot make any occasion feel like a bona fide party. I’ve served these wings at game days, backyard barbecues, family gatherings, and every informal hangout you can imagine. They don’t last long! … Read more

My Guide to Smoked Beef Short Ribs: Pure BBQ Bliss on a Plate There’s just something magical about smoked beef short ribs. These ribs have quickly become my favorite thing to throw on the smoker, especially if I’m hoping to wow friends and family. With that deep, smoky flavor, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and juicy bite, it’s … Read more

Smoking fish gives it a unique flavor that you just can’t get any other way. Whether you’re all about salmon, trout, or something less common, the equipment you use can make a huge difference—not just in taste but also in how easy or tricky the whole process is. One question I come across a lot: … Read more