Traeger Smoked Turkey Ribs Recipe
Lina
Master the art of BBQ with this easy Traeger Smoked Turkey Ribs Recipe! Juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion—your next favorite grill recipe awaits!
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 3 hours hrs
Total Time 3 hours hrs 15 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 Peopel
Calories 310 kcal
Main Ingredients:
- 2-3 pounds turkey ribs – Fresh or frozen thawed, turkey ribs are the star of this dish. If they’re not available locally, ask your butcher for help.
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps the rub stick and locks in moisture during cooking.
Dry Rub Blend:
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika – Adds a smoky depth of flavor even before hitting the grill.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder – A must-have for savory richness.
- 1 tablespoon onion powder – Complements the garlic for a full-bodied flavor.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar – Balances the spices with a touch of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard – Enhances the savory notes with a subtle tang.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder optional – Adds a gentle kick for spice lovers.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – A classic finishing touch.
Optional Glaze:
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce – Choose a smoky tangy variety or make your own.
- 1 tablespoon honey – Adds a glossy finish and subtle sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar – Balances the sweetness with a hint of acidity.
Pro Tips for Ingredients:
- Experiment with wood pellets like hickory applewood, or cherry to amplify the smoky aroma. Each type offers a unique flavor profile.
- For a deeper flavor apply the dry rub the night before and let the ribs marinate in the fridge.
Step 1: Prep Your Turkey Ribs
Rinse and dry: Rinse the turkey ribs under cold water to remove any residue, then pat them dry with paper towels. This step ensures a clean surface for seasoning.
Apply a thin oil coat: Brush the ribs with olive oil or spray lightly. This helps the dry rub stick and locks in moisture while smoking.
Step 2: Season with a Dry Rub
Mix the spices: Combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, ground mustard, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Add chili powder for a touch of heat, if desired.
Rub generously: Massage the seasoning mixture onto the ribs, ensuring every inch is covered. For the best results, let the seasoned ribs rest for 30 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor infusion.
Step 3: Preheat Your Traeger Grill
Set the temperature: Preheat your Traeger grill to 225°F for low and slow cooking.
Load the wood pellets: Use hickory, applewood, or cherry wood pellets to infuse the turkey ribs with a rich, smoky aroma. Each wood type offers a unique flavor, so feel free to experiment!
Step 4: Smoke the Turkey Ribs
Place the ribs on the grill: Lay the ribs directly on the preheated grill grates, ensuring they have enough space for even smoke circulation.
Smoke to perfection: Close the lid and let the ribs smoke for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to monitor doneness without opening the lid too often.
Step 5: Glaze for Extra Flavor (Optional)
Brush on a glaze: In the last 30 minutes of smoking, apply a barbecue sauce glaze mixed with honey and a splash of apple cider vinegar. This creates a sticky, flavorful finish.
Allow the glaze to set: Close the lid and let the ribs cook for the remaining time, letting the glaze caramelize slightly for a deliciously glossy finish.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Rest the ribs: Remove the turkey ribs from the grill and let them rest for 10 minutes. This step locks in the juices and enhances tenderness.
Serve and enjoy: Slice the ribs into portions and pair them with your favorite sides, like coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled veggies.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 310
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 780mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 8g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 6g
-
Protein: 40g
Keyword healthy BBQ ribs, smoked ribs recipe, Traeger smoked turkey ribs