Ground beef is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. While it is commonly used in burgers and meatloaf, it can also be smoked or grilled to create delicious and flavorful dishes. Smoked ground beef can be used in chili, tacos, and even spaghetti sauce.
There are many different recipes for smoking ground beef, each with its unique flavor profile. Some recipes call for smoking the ground beef on its own, while others call for mixing it with other ingredients like onions and peppers. Regardless of the recipe, smoking ground beef adds a depth of flavor that cannot be achieved through other cooking methods.
In this article, we will explore 20 of the best ground beef smoker recipes. From classic smoked chili to unique dishes like smoked meatballs, these recipes are sure to please any meat lover. These recipes are easy to follow and will help you create delicious smoked dishes that are sure to impress.
Essentials of Ground Beef Smoking
Choosing the Right Ground Beef
When it comes to smoking ground beef, choosing the right type of beef is essential. Ground beef with a higher fat content, such as 80/20 or 70/30, is recommended as it will retain more moisture during the smoking process. Leaner ground beef, such as 90/10, may dry out and become tough when smoked.
Understanding Smoker Temperatures
Maintaining the right temperature is crucial when smoking ground beef. The smoker should be set to a temperature of 225-250°F for optimal results. At this temperature, the ground beef will cook slowly and absorb the smoky flavor without drying out.
Selecting Wood Chips for Flavor
The type of wood chips used in the smoker can greatly impact the flavor of the ground beef. Hickory and mesquite wood chips are popular choices for smoking beef as they impart a strong, smoky flavor. However, fruitwood chips such as apple or cherry can add a slightly sweeter flavor that pairs well with ground beef.
To ensure the best results, it’s recommended to soak the wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes before adding them to the smoker.
This will help to prevent the chips from burning too quickly and producing a bitter taste.
20 Best Ground Beef Smoker Recipes
Take a look at these 20 best pellet grill ground beef recipes. From savory burgers to tempting meatballs, each recipe promises a mouthwatering experience.
1- Mexican Ground Beef Tacos
You can try different flavors of Mexican Ground Beef Tacos. These tacos are a delicious variation of ground beef grill recipes.
The recipe is easy. Put seasoned ground beef in warm tortillas. Add fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and a bit of hot sauce. The grill smoke makes it unique. It’s a favorite.
2- Juicy Smoked Burger
A Juicy Smoked Burger is a great representative of the smoker ground beef recipe. They are super easy to prepare using a smoker or a grill.
Just take some ground beef, toss any spices you like, and smoke or grill them to taste that delicious smoky flavor.
Serve those delicious burgers on toasted buns, with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and cheese.
3- Smoked BBQ Baked Beans with Ground Beef
These Smoked BBQ Baked Beans with Ground Beef are ordinary baked beans taken to a new dimension. They contain ground beef added to them, which makes them richer and denser.
Plus, they have that smoky taste which imparts a whole new dimension of deliciousness to the beans.
They’re also perfect as a side dish or even the main course of a satisfying dinner
4 – Grilled meatloaf shorts
Try Grilled Meatloaf Shorts for a simple and delicious twist on traditional meatloaf. It’s made with ground beef and is perfect for grilling.
Grilling each section of Meatloaf separately makes it cook quickly and gives it a tasty smoky flavor.
Forget about baked meatloaf in the oven – welcome a grilling innovation to your table.
5 – Smoked meatballs
These tasty Smoked Meatballs will enhance your appetizers. This is a great representation of smoked ground beef dishes.
The combination of ground beef, savory spices, and the aromatic touch of smoke is nothing short of an explosive flavor that your guests will find irresistible.
It’s always a hit when these smoked meatballs are served at parties or family gatherings.
6 – Classic Beef Tacos
Try our Classic Beef Tacos for a timeless delight. These tacos feature seasoned ground beef in soft taco shells with common toppings.
Grilling gives them an authentic smoky flavor. They are quick and filling, making them a favorite for fast meals.
Bring tradition to your table with these irresistible and easy-to-make classic beef tacos.
7 – Ground Beef Meat Pie
Enjoy the simplicity and elegance of a Ground Beef Meat Pie, which is an interesting dish that can be transformed into something remarkable through smoker recipes using ground beef.
This savory dish consists of seasoned ground beef combined with flaky pastry to give a very comforting and wholesome meal.
8 – Grilled Beef Kabobs
Grilled Ground Beef Kabobs will enhance your grilling. These skewers feature tender beef that has been marinated to perfection and grilled to a juicy smoky finish.
This marriage of juicy ground beef with blistered vegetables is like having an orchestra of tastes that will keep those taste buds humming.
9 – Grilled Stuffed Peppers with Ground Beef
Stuffed Peppers, grilled with ground beef might be the best combination of simplicity and taste along with a pinch of smoke.
The aroma of smoke from the grill improves stuffed peppers with plentiful rich stuffing, particularly if it is ground beef, rice, and spice. This dish is a quick and satisfying way to enjoy an old-time comfort food.
10 – Smoky Roasted Spaghetti Squash Bolognese
Smoky Roasted Spaghetti Squash Bolognese is a low-carb treat for you. The roasted spaghetti squash provides a perfect base for the rich and smoky ground beef Bolognese sauce.
This is a new version of traditional spaghetti while providing healthier options without compromising the flavor.
11 – Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
Try mozzarella stuffed meatballs, a delicious appetizer with hints of smoky flavors popularized by ground beef and smoker recipes.
These delicious bites are stuffed with tasty, seasoned ground beef and filled with gooey mozzarella centers.
These meatballs, when baked to perfection, make for a perfect dinner or appetizer option that is easy and quick to prepare.
These irresistible meatballs can be given a unique flavor by smoking them with ground beef.
12 – Beef Sloppy Joes
Beef Sloppy Joes serve a nostalgic meal that can take on new heights with smoky tastes derived from seared recipes when using ground beef to create combinations.
This is one of those messy yet satisfying sandwich fillings made with ground beef and a tangy, savory sauce.
Fast to fix and packing a big flavor punch, Beef Sloppy Joes are a tried-and-true favorite that never disappoints.
13 – Braised 5 Alarm Chili
Satisfy your taste buds with the fiery flavor of Braised 5 Alarm Chili, a hearty dish that can be enhanced by smoker recipes using ground beef.
This is a hearty chili that consists of spicy ground beef cooked to perfection in flavorful spices.
The slow cooking using the braising technique allows the flavors to combine so that chili made in this way provides a satisfying kick.
14 – Skillet Shepherd’s Pie
Enjoy the tasty flavors of Skillet Shepherd’s Pie, a pan meal that can acquire an extra depth of flavor with ground beef smoker recipes.
This meal is comforting. It has seasoned ground meat, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes.
You can make it in a skillet easily. It tastes great and is a perfect dinner. It is hearty and rich.
15 – Grilled Hot Hawaiian Burger
Grilled Hot Hawaiian Beef Burger will improve your taste buds. This hot concoction consists of a beef patty topped with spicy jalapenos, sweet pineapple, and a splash of teriyaki glaze.
The blending of heat and tropical sweetness turns a familiar burger into an explosion of flavor that connects your tongue to the islands.
16 – Moroccan Ground Meat Kebabs
Moroccan Ground Meat Kebabs is the place where you need to start a culinary adventure. These skewers feature Moroccan-spiced ground meat, providing a burst of North African taste.
The essence of Moroccan cuisine is a quick and exotic dish, a whiff of the aromatic blend that permeates every bite as it has been grilled to perfection.
17 – Grilled Hamburger Sliders
Try the simplicity and charm of the Grilled Hamburger Sliders. The added touch of smoke elevates the standard slider, making it a favorite among crowds for any casual gathering cooked on a grill.
18 – Grilled Long Island Patty Melt
Taste the flavorful pleasure of a Grilled Long Island Patty Melt. This is a variation of the standard with its regional twist: a beef patty topped with caramelized onions and some melted cheese between a couple of slices of grilled rye bread.
19 – Grilled Beef Fajitas
Grilled Beef Fajitas have a bold and vibrant flavor. Perfectly seasoned, thin strips of beef along with colorful bell peppers and onions sizzle on the grill.
The simplicity of this dish makes it easy for the natural flavors to shine through, making it a quick and delicious choice as part of a Tex-Mex-inspired meal.
20 – Grilled Beef Burgers with Caramelized Onions
Upgrade your burger world with Grilled Beef Burgers with Caramelized Onions, one of the best Smoker Ground Beef Recipes.
The beautifully grilled beef patty, topped with sweet and savory caramelized onions creates a musical harmony of flavors that pleases the taste buds.
This is a classic combination that shows the lasting appeal of well made, grilled burger.
Advanced Smoking Techniques
Incorporating Spices and Marinades
To add more flavor to ground beef smoker recipes, incorporating spices and marinades is essential. A well-seasoned rub or marinade can make a huge difference in taste. Some popular spices for ground beef include cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and paprika. A simple marinade made with olive oil, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce can also add a delicious umami flavor to the beef.
Mastering the Smoke Ring
The smoke ring is a pink layer of meat that forms just below the surface when smoking meat. It is a sign of well-smoked meat and adds a great flavor to the dish.
To achieve a great smoke ring, it is important to use the right amount of wood chips and maintain the temperature. Using a combination of hardwood and fruitwood can also help enhance the flavor and create a beautiful smoke ring.
Low and Slow Smoking Tips
Low and slow smoking is a common technique used in smoking ground beef. It involves cooking the meat at a low temperature for a long period, typically 225°F for 1-2 hours. This technique allows the meat to absorb the smoke and become tender and juicy. To ensure even cooking, it is important to flip the meat regularly and use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
In summary, incorporating spices and marinades, mastering the smoke ring, and using low and slow smoking techniques are essential for creating the best ground beef smoker recipes. By following these tips, you can elevate your dish and impress your guests with your smoking skills.
Serving and Pairing Ideas
When it comes to serving and pairing smoked beef dishes, several options can enhance the flavors of the meat and make the meal even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas for side dishes, wine and beer pairings, and sauces and condiments that work well with smoked beef.
Side Dishes for Smoked Beef
Side dishes can complement the flavors of smoked beef and add variety to the meal. Some popular options include:
- Grilled vegetables, such as asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers
- Creamy coleslaw or potato salad
- Baked beans with bacon or sausage
- Roasted garlic mashed potatoes
- Cornbread or garlic bread
Sauces and Condiments
Sauces and condiments can add flavor and texture to smoked beef dishes. Here are some options to try:
- BBQ sauce, either homemade or store-bought
- Horseradish or mustard sauce for a spicy kick
- Chimichurri or salsa verde for a fresh and tangy flavor
- Blue cheese or ranch dressing for a creamy and tangy taste
