Traeger Smoked Asparagus Recipe

This simple Traeger asparagus recipe creates delicious asparagus that is bold, smoky and tender. A little olive oil, simple seasonings and some time on the smoker will transform fresh asparagus into an incredible side dish with amazing flavor. Use a Traeger (or a similar type of smoker) to create this easy, flavor-packed veg that goes with almost any main course.

Asparagus is one of my favorite vegetables and I especially love the fact that it usually only takes a quick roast over high heat to make the perfect simple side. I realize it might be a big ask to trade in that quick cook time for a low and slow smoked asparagus, but please give it a try because it's 1000% worth the wait.

The asparagus turns out tender with the perfect bouncy crispness, and the intense smoky flavor is a dream.

It's salty and garlic-y and tastes like it was cooked over a legit campfire (in only the best way possible, of course).

When it comes to side dishes, this one's a keeper! It is sure to become your new favorite way to enjoy this healthy vegetable.

why this recipe works

I'm keeping this recipe extra simple, but you can definitely jazz up your smoked asparagus too.

Shredded Parmesan cheese or grated lemon zest or squeeze of lemon are all great choices. So is a dash of red pepper flakes for heat. And for a truly elevated side, drizzle the smoked asparagus with a little bit of truffle oil (I've been using Trader Joe's truffle oils on all the things lately - so good!).

This simple side dish is the best way to make use of space on your grill when you have something else cooking.

Since smoked asparagus goes great with any protein, the best part is you can grill salmon or chuck roast or brisket and load up grill space with asparagus toward the end of the smoke time.

Asparagus on the Traeger is:

• simple to prepare
• perfectly smoked asparagus with big flavor
• healthy, easy and versatile
• a great side dish that fits any diet.

the ingredients

For the best results, choose semi thick asparagus spears. They will hold up better when smoking. Thin spears will still turn out well but you will have to reduce the smoking time overall.

You will need:

• fresh asparagus (try to choose thick asparagus stalks)
• olive oil
• fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
• garlic powder

You can definitely use a Traeger veggie rub but I personally prefer my own spice blends. The smoked asparagus has such a great smoky, earthy flavor all on its own that just a few basic seasonings is all you need.

smoked asparagus recipe

This Traeger asparagus recipe is so easy and the results are fantastic!

Note that the cooking time will vary based on the size of your asparagus stalks and your specific pellet grill/smoker, so just be sure to keep an eye on the asparagus. It doesn't take long to go from crisp, perfectly-smoked asparagus to sad, mushy asparagus.

Here's a quick look at the process. Check out the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page for all of the ingredients and full instructions.

Before you begin: Preheat your Traeger (or similar pellet smoker) to 225°F. Turn on the "super smoke" feature if your Traeger grill has one.

Remove the woody part from each of the asparagus stalks. The best way to do this is to snap them right off of the base.

Place asparagus on a baking rack or vegetable grilling pan if you have one (if you don't, that's okay) in a single layer. When the pellet grill is preheated, transfer the asparagus to the grill grate.

Smoke for 30 minutes, then flip the asparagus spears. Smoke another 15-30 minutes or until the spears are tender (but still has a bit of crunch to it) or cooked to your personal preference.

Remove from the grill and serve immediately. You can serve the Traeger asparagus with a lemon wedge, drizzle it with a squeeze of lemon juice or season it with red pepper flakes, if desired.

Traeger asparagus recipe tips

• You can place asparagus directly on the grill grates but for easy flipping and managing altogether, an expert tip is to set them on a baking rack. The grid will prevent the asparagus from falling through the grates and it's easier to flip them this way. Other great options include a grill pan, aluminum foil pan or directly on the grill grates.

• When placing the asparagus on the pellet smoker, it helps to be familiar with which side of the grill is the hottest. Depending on your grill and where the asparagus is placed, you may need less or more cook time. Super thick stalks will most likely need extra time- at least 1 hour total. Thinner stalks may cook as quickly as 40-45 minutes. This all depends on how done you like your asparagus. If you cook them too long, they will end up mushy.

• Store any leftover smoked asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

frequently asked questions

This Traeger asparagus recipe is an incredible way to smoke asparagus and create the most delicious side dish! Perfectly smoked, the asparagus is tender yet crisp, with an amazing savory and smoky flavor.

Enjoy! If you love it too, please consider leaving a comment or a five-star review in the recipe card below. I'm always grateful for your feedback. 🙂

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