How to Make Traeger Smoked Italian Meatballs

Italian meatballs have long been a beloved staple in kitchens around the world. Traditionally served with spaghetti and marinara sauce, these savory delights are a comfort food classic. But what if we told you there was a way to elevate this household favorite to a whole new level of flavor? Enter Traeger’s Smoked Italian Meatballs—a recipe that infuses these meatballs with the rich, smoky flavor of hickory wood pellets, making them a standout dish for any meal.

Ingredients

To create these smoked Italian meatballs, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 pound ground Italian sausage
• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients. Use your hands to ensure the mixture is well blended. This tactile method helps in distributing the spices and herbs evenly throughout the meat.

Step 2: Form Meatballs

Shape the mixture into 1-1/2 inch meatballs. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure there is enough space between each meatball to allow for even cooking.

Step 3: Preheat the Traeger

Set the Traeger grill temperature to 180℉ and preheat with the lid closed for 15 minutes. For optimal flavor, use the Super Smoke setting if your grill has this feature.

Step 4: Smoke the Meatballs

Place the meatballs directly on the grill grate. Smoke them for 20 minutes at 180℉, allowing the smoky hickory flavor to infuse the meat.

Step 5: Increase Heat and Cook

After smoking, increase the grill temperature to 350℉. Cook the meatballs for an additional 10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165℉. This step ensures the meatballs are fully cooked and have a perfect, juicy texture.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the smoked meatballs over a bed of spaghetti noodles topped with your favorite marinara sauce. The combination of smoky meatballs and classic Italian flavors will surely be a hit at your dinner table.

Conclusion

Traeger’s Smoked Italian Meatballs offer a delightful twist on a traditional dish, adding a layer of smoky richness that complements the savory and spicy notes of the meatballs. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or looking to impress guests at a barbecue, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy the delicious blend of flavors that only a wood-fired grill can provide, and transform your spaghetti dinners into something extraordinary.